分类: society

  • #EyeOnMelissa: Farmers told to reap early where possible to minimise losses – Green

    #EyeOnMelissa: Farmers told to reap early where possible to minimise losses – Green

    In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica, Agriculture Minister Floyd Green has called on farmers to take immediate action to safeguard their crops and livestock. Speaking at a special media briefing at Jamaica House on Saturday, Green emphasized the importance of harvesting available crops to minimize potential losses. ‘We’ve been urging all types of farmers to take necessary precautions, starting with harvesting whatever they can,’ he stated. The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to collaborate with fruit and pepper farmers, as well as agro-processors, to ensure that produce is harvested and processed promptly. Green also advised livestock farmers to secure sufficient feed and clean water for their animals and to relocate them to higher ground if they are in flood-prone areas. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued advisories, and teams from the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) are actively visiting farmers to provide support. Farmers have been instructed to clear drains, remove overhanging trees, and prop up banana and plantain plants to mitigate damage. Green strongly cautioned against venturing out during the hurricane, noting that such actions often result in loss of life. Reflecting on the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which destroyed hundreds of greenhouse structures, Green urged greenhouse farmers to follow established protocols, including stripping plastic covers to allow wind to pass through. Additionally, AgroInvest Corporation and the Sugar Company of Jamaica are working to clean critical drains in agro parks to reduce flooding risks. -Lynford Simpson

  • Nigerian police arrest over 25 for organising alleged gay wedding

    Nigerian police arrest over 25 for organising alleged gay wedding

    In a recent crackdown, Nigeria’s religious police, known as the Hisbah, detained 25 individuals accused of organizing a gay wedding in Kano, the largest city in the predominantly Muslim northern region. The arrests were made on Sunday following a tip-off from local residents. Among those detained were 18 men and 7 women, all in their early 20s, including the couple believed to be planning the ceremony. Mujaheed Abubakar, deputy head of the Hisbah, stated that one man was allegedly preparing to marry another man at the event center where the gathering took place. Authorities have launched an investigation with the intent to prosecute those involved. Sharia law, which operates alongside state and federal legal systems in 12 northern Nigerian states, imposes severe penalties for homosexuality, including the death penalty, though this has never been enforced. Nigeria’s federal legislation from 2014 also criminalizes same-sex marriages and the promotion of civil unions, with violators facing up to 14 years in prison. The Hisbah has a history of arresting individuals at alleged gay weddings, with similar incidents reported in 2022, 2018, 2015, and 2007, though no convictions have been secured to date.

  • Cutting style with Amayiah Thomas

    Cutting style with Amayiah Thomas

    At just 14 years old, Amayiah Thomas is already making waves as a professional cosmetologist while nurturing her dream of becoming a footballer. A third-form student at Chaguanas North Secondary School, Amayiah has been honing her cosmetology skills for four years, inspired by her mother, Akeela Flanders, who is a seasoned hairstylist. Specializing in unique braid styles, weaves, ponytails, and nail services, Amayiah has transformed her early exposure to her mother’s craft into a thriving skill set. Her journey began by assisting her mother with clients, which allowed her to master intricate braiding techniques. Recognizing her talent, her mother enrolled her in professional courses to refine her skills and earn certification. Beyond cosmetology, Amayiah is also an aspiring footballer, having trained with the U-14 national team before pursuing opportunities abroad. Despite her introverted nature, she finds joy in dancing and cherishes the unwavering support of her mother, who has been her biggest cheerleader. Amayiah’s passion for cosmetology lies in the confidence she instills in her clients, whether for weddings, graduations, or personal transformations. However, her path hasn’t been without challenges, as she often faces skepticism from adults who doubt her abilities. To other young individuals, she offers this advice: ‘Always listen to those who support you, keep your head up, and never stop believing in yourself.’ Her mother, Akeela, echoes this sentiment, urging parents to support their children’s ambitions, as they never know when a life-changing opportunity might arise. While cosmetology is her current focus, Amayiah’s ultimate goal remains a career in football, showcasing her determination to excel in multiple fields.

  • WATCH: #EyeOnMelissa: Warning System triggered in St Catherine

    WATCH: #EyeOnMelissa: Warning System triggered in St Catherine

    ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — On Sunday afternoon, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Early Warning System in Old Harbour Bay was activated at 2:43 pm, issuing evacuation alerts due to rapidly rising sea levels caused by Hurricane Melissa. The system, which was transferred to Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) in 2024 as part of the Emergency Communications System Improvement Project, plays a critical role in disaster response by disseminating ODPEM warnings. Reports confirm that the surging waters have inundated numerous homes, roads, and parts of the local fishing village, exacerbating the crisis. Hurricane Melissa is expected to unleash torrential rains and powerful winds, with the potential for life-threatening storm surges. The Parish Disaster Management team is actively monitoring the situation to ensure public safety and coordinate emergency efforts.

  • #EyeOnMelissa: McKenzie urges Jamaicans to heed warnings as Hurricane Melissa nears

    #EyeOnMelissa: McKenzie urges Jamaicans to heed warnings as Hurricane Melissa nears

    As Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 4 storm, approaches Jamaica, authorities are intensifying efforts to ensure public safety. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, has issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them to take the impending threat seriously and adhere to all official directives.

    McKenzie emphasized that the hurricane is moving steadily towards the island, albeit at a slow pace. He highlighted the importance of public cooperation, stating that effective disaster response relies on collective action. ‘This is not the time for complacency. We have been providing Jamaicans with ample notice through daily press briefings,’ he said.

    The minister revealed that mandatory evacuation orders will be issued for certain vulnerable communities, with announcements expected soon. He stressed that while the government is fully prepared to respond, individual responsibility is crucial. ‘The people must buy into the instructions being given. Our destiny is in our hands if we act wisely,’ McKenzie added.

    In preparation for the storm, all emergency shelters have been activated, with three already accommodating evacuees. The government continues to monitor the situation closely, urging citizens to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property.

  • Minimum Wage Advisory Committee to Convene First Meeting on November 4

    Minimum Wage Advisory Committee to Convene First Meeting on November 4

    The Antigua and Barbuda Minimum Wage Advisory Committee (MWAC) is set to convene its inaugural meeting on November 4, 2025, marking a significant step in the review of the nation’s minimum wage. The virtual session will be led by Labour Commissioner Eltonia Anthony-David, with Deputy Commissioner Pascal Kentish co-chairing the proceedings. The Hon. Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, Attorney General and Minister of Labour, will deliver opening remarks to officially commence the meeting. The committee, comprising 18 members with equal representation from employers, employees, and the government, will receive its terms of reference. These mandate the group to assess working conditions and propose a revised minimum wage to the Minister of Labour, who will then consult with the Cabinet for final approval. Notably, each member is allowed to bring an alternate representative to the first meeting. The last minimum wage adjustment occurred in January 2023, when it was raised from EC$8.20 to EC$9.00 per hour. This upcoming review underscores the government’s commitment to addressing labor standards and economic equity.

  • Govt’s Road Repair Programme to receive support

    Govt’s Road Repair Programme to receive support

    The Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW) in Barbados has taken a significant step to enhance its road repair and infrastructure development initiatives by investing in six JCB pothole patching trucks. Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw, who oversees the ministry, announced this during a reception celebrating the 80th anniversary of J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited (JCB). The event was hosted by British High Commissioner Simon Mustard in collaboration with Inchcape Barbados. Bradshaw expressed her enthusiasm for the new equipment, stating that the trucks, along with six JCB Flail Head Cutters for highway debushing, are expected to arrive by the end of the year. Training for MTW teams will commence shortly after, with operational deployment planned for early January, post-hurricane season. Bradshaw highlighted JCB’s global reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability, noting the company’s long-standing partnership with Barbados since 1981. She also praised JCB’s role in post-Hurricane Beryl recovery efforts, emphasizing the durability and performance of its machinery. Minister of Energy and Business, Senator Lisa Cummins, echoed these sentiments, commending JCB’s contributions to Barbados and expressing hope for local companies to achieve similar global success. Erik Montero, Regional Head of JCB Caribbean, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation and improving the lives of Barbadians. High Commissioner Mustard expressed confidence in JCB’s continued role in driving progress.

  • Multiple SLASPA employees charged in $705K drug bust

    Multiple SLASPA employees charged in $705K drug bust

    In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, three employees of the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) have been arrested and charged following a major drug bust at Port Castries. The operation, conducted on October 17, 2025, was a joint effort by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) and the Customs and Excise Department, based on intelligence reports.

    During the operation, authorities intercepted a grey van driven by Cyril Joseph, a Red Cap assigned to the port. A barrel in the vehicle, which had not been cleared for customs inspection, was found to contain cannabis, cannabis resin (hashish), and MDMA crystals (commonly known as ecstasy), with an estimated street value of $705,686.50.

    Further investigations revealed a coordinated effort among several port employees to bypass customs procedures, leading to the arrest of two additional SLASPA workers, Ian Moncherry and Nadia Edward. A subsequent search of Moncherry’s residence uncovered an additional quantity of cannabis resin valued at $4,200.

    All three individuals were charged on October 22, 2025, with offences including importation of a controlled drug, possession with intent to supply, aiding and abetting, and fraudulent evasion of customs duties and controls. They appeared before the First District Court on October 24 and were each granted bail in the sum of $45,000, either in cash or with a suitable surety.

    The RSLPF emphasized that this operation highlights ongoing efforts to safeguard Saint Lucia’s borders and combat corruption within key institutions. A police statement declared, ‘This operation is a clear message that corruption and criminal collusion will not be tolerated,’ noting that illegal drugs and firearms entering through the island’s ports ‘directly fuel violent crime, gang activity, and homicides within our communities.’

  • ‘National cry for help’ in crime spike, says youth counsellor

    ‘National cry for help’ in crime spike, says youth counsellor

    The escalating involvement of young men in serious criminal activities has been labeled a moral and social crisis by Shawn Clarke, CEO of Supreme Counselling Services. Recent police data reveals a troubling spike in violent and major offenses, prompting Clarke to describe the situation as “a national cry for help.” While overall crime in Barbados has decreased by approximately two percent, serious crimes against individuals have doubled compared to last year, with robberies more than doubling and major crimes rising by 13 percent. Clarke emphasized that these figures are not mere statistics but represent lives once filled with potential, mothers’ silent tears, and communities on the brink of collapse. Despite the grim outlook, Clarke remains optimistic, asserting that the situation is not beyond redemption. He called for a shift from blame to collective responsibility, urging government, parents, schools, churches, and community organizations to unite in prevention and outreach efforts. Clarke advocated for meaningful interventions, such as youth mentorship programs and community-based behavioral support, to address the root causes of crime. He stressed that solving this crisis requires more than police action; it demands a collaborative, solution-focused approach. Clarke concluded with a message of hope, stating that Barbados’ young men are not lost causes but lost children in need of guidance and support.

  • Gender Affairs Directorate Promotes Respect and Equality at Five Islands Primary

    Gender Affairs Directorate Promotes Respect and Equality at Five Islands Primary

    The Directorate of Gender Affairs (DoGA) has reinforced its commitment to combating gender-based violence through its ongoing awareness initiative, recently engaging Grade 4 and 5 students at Five Islands Primary School. The program, designed to educate and empower young minds, focuses on equipping students with the tools to recognize, resist, and respond to gender-based violence while fostering values of respect, equality, and kindness.