分类： society

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has publicly expressed profound sorrow following the passing of renowned American civil rights pioneer Reverend Jesse Jackson, who died Tuesday morning. In an official statement released the same day, Holness memorialized Jackson as an extraordinarily influential figure whose advocacy reshaped social justice movements across two centuries.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Jackson’s lifelong dedication to advancing economic parity, racial equality, and social justice created transformative impacts extending far beyond U.S. borders. His empowerment initiatives for Black communities, minority groups, and working-class citizens generated worldwide resonance that will endure for generations, Holness noted.

Holness characterized Jackson as an inspirational communicator whose powerful oratory captured the attention of global power structures. “Humanity owes Reverend Jackson a debt of gratitude,” the statement continued, highlighting his unique capacity to influence policymakers and consciousness leaders internationally.

The Jamaican leader placed Jackson within an exceptional group of civil rights pioneers including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., applauding their selfless commitment to humanitarian principles despite significant personal risks. Holness specifically noted their shared prioritization of universal justice over self-interest.

Describing Jackson’s death as a historic moment, Holness credited the activist with restoring virtues of kindness, justice, and equality during periods when these principles faced erosion. The Prime Minister concluded by extending official condolences to Jackson’s family, friends, and supporters worldwide during their time of grief.

KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant move to strengthen national food security, the Jamaican government has distributed agricultural resources worth approximately $30 million to thirty-three farmers operating at the Parnassus Agro-Park. This initiative forms part of the first phase of the Southern Plains Agricultural Development Project (SPAD) Matching Grant Scheme, designed to equip local agriculturists with essential tools for enhanced productivity and enterprise sustainability.

The provision includes comprehensive one-acre irrigation systems, extensive fencing materials, diverse seeds and seedlings, specialized crop inputs for both one-acre and half-acre plots, along with practical small tools like mist blowers and sprayers. This strategic support aims to directly increase crop yields, fortify farmers’ economic livelihoods, and substantially contribute to reducing Jamaica’s reliance on food imports.

Managed by the Agro-Investment Corporation (AIC), an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, the project receives funding from the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), totaling a $100-million investment. While initially benefiting farmers in Clarendon and St. Catherine—specifically in areas like Amity Hall and Bridge Pen—the scheme specifically prioritizes support for small to medium-scale operations, including those run by youth and women.

During the official handover ceremony at the Clarendon agro-park on February 11, Minister Floyd Green emphasized the government’s commitment. “This matching grant represents a $30 million investment in our agricultural entrepreneurs. We are investing in the farmers so they can invest in their enterprises, ensuring we get the food needed for a food-secure Jamaica,” he stated. Minister Green further highlighted that the support extends beyond financial input, incorporating crucial training programs to build long-term capacity.

The Parnassus Agro-Park itself is a hub of diverse agricultural production, with farmers actively cultivating hot pepper, sweet pepper, pumpkin, sweet potato, watermelon, callaloo, sweet corn, cucumber, okra, onion, and pak choi. Through this injection of resources and the overarching work of the AIC, the project underscores a dedicated national effort to modernize agricultural practices, mobilize sector finance, and promote sustainable socio-economic development across rural communities.

LOS ANGELES – In a significant development for the 2028 Summer Olympics organization, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has publicly called for Casey Wasserman to resign from his position as chief organizer. The demand follows revelations about Wasserman’s past communications with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell.

During a CNN interview on Monday, Mayor Bass expressed her position clearly, stating, “My opinion is that he should step down,” while acknowledging this view contrasted with that of the LA28 board. Bass characterized the ongoing support for Wasserman from Olympic organizers as “unfortunate” given the emerging details about his historical connections.

The controversy stems from flirtatious email exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell that occurred approximately two decades ago, before Maxwell’s criminal activities were publicly known. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for trafficking underage girls for financier Jeffrey Epstein, who died in custody in 2019 in what was ruled a suicide.

This political pressure follows earlier calls from other Los Angeles city officials for Wasserman’s resignation earlier this month. Initially, Mayor Bass had declined to take a position on the matter, stating it should be decided by the LA28 board.

The LA28 Olympics executive committee had previously reaffirmed their support for Wasserman on February 11. In response to the growing backlash, Wasserman announced last week his decision to sell the major sports and entertainment agency he founded.

The International Olympic Committee has distanced itself from the decision-making process, with spokesperson Mark Adams telling journalists, “This is a matter for the board of LA28 still at this stage.” Adams noted that a law firm had investigated the matter and that numerous conversations were ongoing regarding Wasserman’s position.

Notably, Wasserman, 51, has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing related to the Epstein scandal. He issued an apology last month, emphasizing that his communications with Maxwell predated public knowledge of her crimes.

The developments come amid the continued release of documents from the Epstein investigation, with the U.S. Justice Department last month unveiling over three million documents, photos, and videos related to the case.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant corporate response to natural disaster recovery, Sterling Asset Management (SAM) has contributed JMD $500,000 to United Way of Jamaica for agricultural sector rehabilitation following Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path. The financial injection specifically targets farmers and fisherfolk whose livelihoods suffered substantial disruption from the hurricane’s impact.

The formal contribution ceremony occurred at United Way’s headquarters on February 4, with key representatives from Sterling, United Way, and implementation partner Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) in attendance.

Michelle Valentine, SAM’s Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communications, characterized the donation as reflecting corporate Jamaica’s broader obligation to support national recovery initiatives. “Hurricane Melissa highlighted the profound vulnerability of numerous livelihoods,” Valentine stated. “The devastation across multiple parishes, especially within agricultural communities, was catastrophic. Overcoming such disasters requires collaborative partnerships, dedicated commitment, and sustained assistance.”

Valentine further emphasized Sterling’s philosophical approach: “Through this contribution, Sterling takes pride in collaborating with United Way of Jamaica, grounded in our conviction that community investment ultimately strengthens Jamaica’s fundamental foundations.”

The allocated funds will augment existing recovery resources directed toward agricultural rehabilitation. Support will materialize through multiple channels: provision of agricultural inputs, housing repair assistance, production-restart resources, and replacement fishing equipment alongside safety gear for maritime workers.

Geographic focus will prioritize parishes that endured the hurricane’s most severe impacts, including St James, Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Hanover, Manchester, and specific areas of Trelawny. Many beneficiary communities face accessibility challenges, making coordinated distribution and local expertise essential for program effectiveness.

United Way of Jamaica CEO Kerry-Lee Lynch highlighted JAS’s critical role as logistical partner: “Our previous disaster interventions with JAS have demonstrated their parish-level network enables reach to agricultural workers who might otherwise remain overlooked.”

JAS CEO Derron Grant detailed post-hurricane assessments revealing housing damage and productive capacity loss as predominant concerns. “Numerous farmers required shelter repairs before considering replanting,” Grant explained. “Others urgently needed seeds, fertilizers, and tools. Fisherfolk prioritized equipment replacement to resume operations.”

Beneficiary identification employed structured assessment methodologies, cross-referenced with local branch records and consolidated within a centralized database. United Way’s accountability framework includes comprehensive distribution documentation and post-intervention monitoring to evaluate long-term outcomes.

Lynch expressed gratitude for Sterling’s timely contribution and strategic sector focus: “On behalf of United Way, I extend profound appreciation. Many farmers lost not just livelihoods but hope. Contributions like this help restore both—thank you profoundly.”

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s future leaders and creatives received national recognition during the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Heritage Competition Awards Ceremony held Tuesday. Seven exceptional students across primary, secondary, and tertiary education levels were honored for their outstanding contributions in essay writing, digital artistry, and photography.

The 2025 competition, themed ‘Honouring Our People, Protecting the Future,’ showcased Jamaica’s brightest young minds. Danash Brown from West Indies College Preparatory School in Manchester claimed top honors in the essay category, with Kahiel Stewart (Kensington Primary School) and Jonathan Clark (Stella Maris Preparatory School) securing second and third places respectively.

Digital artistry awards were dominated by Campion College students, with Alayna Elliott winning the grades 10-13 division and Bryce Wilson taking first place in the grades seven-nine category. Brian Levy of York Castle High School earned distinction in the illustrated poster category, while Shante Sinclair from the University of Technology demonstrated photographic excellence.

The award ceremony at Summit Kingston featured significant prizes including trophies, vacation packages, gift certificates, laptop computers, and cash awards. Rhoda Moy Crawford, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, praised the JIS for maintaining this platform for fifteen consecutive years.

“For more than a decade, JIS has provided a credible platform that enables our youth to express themselves through artistic mediums,” Crawford stated. “This initiative encourages research, reflection, and personal growth among Jamaica’s next generation of leaders.”

Crawford emphasized the lifelong value of skills developed through the competition, noting: “You have reminded us that young people are not merely participants in Jamaica’s story but authors of Jamaica’s next chapter.”

JIS Acting Chief Executive Officer Celia Lindsay highlighted the competition’s expanding geographical reach, noting increased participation beyond traditional strongholds in western Jamaica. “This achievement reflects our intensified efforts to engage youth through innovative strategies that promote awareness of governmental policies and national values,” Lindsay explained.

The annual competition, established in 2011, continues to partner with prominent organizations including the Universal Service Fund, Sandals Resorts International, and First Heritage Co-operative Credit Union to support youth development and national pride.

NEGRIL, Westmoreland — A significant revitalization project for the long-deteriorating Negril Post Office officially commenced on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment for local residents and businesses. The site was formally handed over to contractors on Monday, initiating a comprehensive three-month renovation timeline that promises to restore full operational capacity shortly thereafter.

Councillor Arthel Colley (People’s National Party, Negril Division) expressed profound satisfaction with the project’s launch, emphasizing its critical importance to both community members and the tourism sector. “This development substantially benefits Negril’s citizens and enhances the experience for international visitors who frequently utilize postal services,” Colley stated during a coordinated site inspection with key stakeholders.

The project mobilization brought together representatives from multiple organizations including the Post and Telecommunications Department, the Negril and Green Island Area Local Planning Authority (NGIALPA), the Negril Chamber of Commerce, community advocates, and parliamentary representative Wayne Vacciana acting on behalf of MP Ian Hayles (Westmoreland Western). This collaborative meeting served to align all parties on project specifications and introduce contracting teams to community representatives.

Renovation specifications encompass complete structural rehabilitation addressing multiple critical deficiencies: replacement of compromised roofing systems, installation of new doors and windows, comprehensive electrical and plumbing upgrades, and tile replacement throughout the facility. The building has remained non-operational for approximately three years despite persistent appeals from local officials regarding its deteriorating condition.

Colley highlighted previous safety hazards that necessitated closure: “Structural deterioration reached critical levels with falling concrete endangering staff and patrons. Letterbox systems were extensively damaged, and the overall exterior presentation became unacceptable for public service delivery.”

NGIALPA Physical Planner Mali Dickson addressed regulatory considerations during planning phases, noting: “Primary concerns involved roadway setback compliance. Through strategic assessment, we recommended relocation of front-facing letterboxes to achieve required 6.1-meter parochial road setbacks.” Additional planning regarding parking infrastructure modifications remains underway, with resolutions expected before project completion.

The renovated facility will serve multiple communities including Negril, Red Ground, Whitehall, and Good Hope, with particular emphasis on restoring essential services for pensioners and business operators reliant on postal operations.

The St. Ann Municipal Corporation is confronting a deeply sensitive social crisis as familial conflicts over land ownership are preventing the burial of deceased relatives, creating profound distress within communities. Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Brown-Cunningham revealed that the corporation has been compelled to issue multiple cease and desist orders, resulting in at least three bodies being returned to funeral homes in recent months. These administrative interventions occur when the corporation receives formal written objections from individuals claiming to be the legitimate landowners, contesting burial permissions granted to other family members.

Brown-Cunningham described the situation as a harrowing predicament, often pitting the municipal authority in the middle of intractable family controversies. In one particularly poignant case from early February, squatters residing on an informal settlement in Clapham, Moneague, filed an objection to prevent the legal property owner from burying her husband on her own land. Swift investigations were crucial in that instance to verify true ownership and allow the grieving widow to proceed with the burial.

The CEO has publicly appealed to local councillors to engage more proactively in these deeply personal community matters. She emphasized that preemptive dialogue within communities could help mitigate these contentious situations surrounding the final resting places of loved ones. Councillor Lloyd Garrick of the Moneague Division proposed a procedural solution, urging the corporation to expedite its processing of burial applications. He advocated for swifter coordination with the health department to conduct necessary investigations, which could preemptively clarify ownership and prevent last-minute halts to funeral proceedings.