Jamaican Teas Limited is grappling with a significant downturn in its US market sales, a critical revenue stream for the company. CEO John Mahfood identified a ‘triple threat’ of challenges impacting consumer spending among the Caribbean Diaspora: increased tariffs, heightened immigration enforcement, and the suspension of food stamp payments. These factors have collectively dampened sales in key states like New York and Florida.
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Unsafe to eat
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, the Public Health Department has ordered the destruction of 5,661 kilogrammes of food deemed unsafe for consumption. The decision followed inspections of 5,052 food handling establishments, as disclosed by Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Christopher Tufton in Parliament on Tuesday. The hurricane, a Category 5 storm, left several south-western parishes without electricity, severely disrupting food safety and public health systems.
Dr. Tufton emphasized the government’s efforts to monitor large farms and food processing facilities to prevent unsafe food from entering the supply chain and to avert potential outbreaks of food-borne diseases. He assured that safety measures would be intensified as access to previously marooned communities improves. Opposition health spokesman Dr. Alfred Dawes echoed the need for vigilance, warning that diseases such as dysentery, dengue, and cholera could emerge in the aftermath of the disaster.
The hurricane caused catastrophic damage to health infrastructure across the island, particularly in the southern and western regions. Seven hospitals, including Black River, Noel Holmes, and Cornwall Regional, suffered extensive roof and structural damage. A field hospital has been established in Black River, with plans for additional facilities in Falmouth and Savanna-la-Mar. Over 100 health centres also reported damage, severely impacting primary care services.
Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Health has initiated a three-phase recovery plan. The first phase focuses on restoring basic health services, preventing disease outbreaks, and addressing staff welfare. Dr. Tufton highlighted that 79% of healthcare professionals have returned to work, enabling the resumption of critical services such as maternal and child health care, HIV treatment, and immunizations in 30% of damaged facilities.
The government’s response also includes mass environmental health actions, psychosocial interventions, and infrastructure repairs. Dr. Tufton stressed the importance of rebuilding the health system to be more resilient, stating, ‘We must build back better.’ The Ministry continues to urge citizens to practice proper hygiene, use safe water sources, and report any illness symptoms promptly.
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‘COLLECTIVE ACTION’
The Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) is set to resume on December 7 after a hiatus caused by Hurricane Melissa, which devastated parts of the island in late October. However, Professional Football Jamaica Limited (PFJL) CEO Owen Hill has highlighted significant financial and logistical challenges that must be addressed to ensure a smooth restart. The league, which has completed nine match weeks, was paused due to the hurricane’s widespread destruction, including loss of lives and severe damage to infrastructure. Following discussions with stakeholders, including the 14 clubs, the PFJL executive, and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), a consensus was reached to delay the restart until December. While some Kingston-based clubs advocated for an earlier resumption, severely affected teams like Treasure Beach FC and Montego Bay United (MBU) requested additional time to recover. Hill emphasized the need for collective responsibility, stating that the December 7 restart date balances the needs of all parties. The decision has resulted in nearly 50 postponed matches, with teams now likely to play twice weekly to meet the league’s schedule. Venue challenges also persist, as MBU and Treasure Beach’s home grounds remain unplayable due to hurricane damage. Hill suggested a hub model, centralizing games at available venues, while calling for financial support from sponsors and corporate Jamaica to address the league’s immediate needs. He also urged fans to attend matches or subscribe to broadcasts, as gate receipts and subscriptions are crucial for clubs’ financial viability. As the league prepares to restart, MBU leads the standings with 22 points, followed by Portmore United with 18. Treasure Beach FC sits in 10th place, while defending champions Cavalier and unbeaten Mount Pleasant Football Academy are fourth and eighth, respectively.
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Rainwater harvesting consultations
The Government of Grenada, in collaboration with the German Development Corporation (GIZ), is spearheading the Climate-Resilient Water Sector in Grenada (G-CREWS) project. This initiative is co-funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN) through its International Climate Initiative (IKI), alongside contributions from the Grenadian government. A key component of the project is the promotion of rainwater harvesting to enhance climate resilience in the nation’s water sector. The success of this effort will be measured by the increased adoption of rainwater harvesting practices. To facilitate this, the government is considering the introduction of mandatory rainwater harvesting legislation. As part of this process, public consultation sessions are being held to gather feedback and suggestions on the draft regulations. The draft legislation is currently open for public comment, and an online consultation is scheduled for Wednesday, 12 November 2025, from 5–7 pm. The draft can be accessed via the Climate Resilience Portal, and comments can be submitted to [email protected]. The G-CREWS project underscores Grenada’s commitment to sustainable water management and climate adaptation.
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Venezuela congratulates Angola on 50 years of independence
In a significant diplomatic gesture, Bolivarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Yvan Gil conveyed heartfelt congratulations to Angola on behalf of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro via Telegram. Minister Gil highlighted that this milestone not only strengthens the path toward peace and sovereignty but also acknowledges the rich cultural diversity shared between the two nations. He underscored the deep-rooted historical connections between Venezuela and Angola, reaffirming their mutual dedication to enhancing collaboration across economic, political, and cultural spheres. Diplomatic and political relations between Caracas and Luanda were formally established on December 6, 1986, marking the beginning of a robust partnership. Two decades later, Venezuelan Commander Hugo Chavez made a high-profile visit to Angola, further solidifying ties. The relationship continued to flourish, as evidenced by the meeting between Presidents Nicolas Maduro and Joao Lourenco during the Group of 77-China summit in Havana, Cuba, in September 2023. Currently, both nations are actively engaged in cooperative efforts, particularly in the mining sector. In April 2023, high-level political consultations were held in Angola’s capital, led by Venezuela’s Vice Minister for Africa, Yuri Pimentel, signaling a renewed commitment to bilateral progress.
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Chile: Candidates held final debate with heated exchanges
In a high-stakes final debate before the upcoming elections, Chilean presidential candidates from across the political spectrum engaged in a heated discussion on critical issues, including security, social policies, the economy, and governance. Organized by the National Television Association (ANATEL), the event featured Jeannette Jara of the ruling party coalition and the Christian Democrats (DC), Jose Antonio Kast of the far-right Republican Party, and Franco Parisi of the conservative People’s Party. Other participants included Johannes Kaiser of the National Libertarian Party, Evelyn Matthei of the right-wing Let’s Go Chile coalition, and independent candidates Harold Mayne-Nicholls, Marco Enriquez-Ominami, and Eduardo Artes. Security emerged as a central theme, with right-wing and far-right candidates advocating for hardline measures. Matthei notably declared that organized crime groups like Tren de Aragua would face only two options: prison or death. Kaiser, Kast, and Parisi echoed similar sentiments, while Artes emphasized the need to address who benefits from organized crime. Mayne-Nicholls stood out by focusing on prevention through youth opportunities. Jara proposed complementing security measures with community support and tracing criminal proceeds, advocating for lifting bank secrecy—a controversial proposal rejected by some candidates. The debate also explored alternatives such as closing northern borders, constructing more prisons, reclaiming territories controlled by organized crime, and reforming the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Judiciary.
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Ambassador Benoit Bardouille appointed as Dominica’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization
In a significant diplomatic move, Dominica has appointed Ambassador Benoit Bardouille as its Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The announcement was made by Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton, who highlighted Bardouille’s extensive experience and leadership in maritime affairs. Bardouille, the former CEO of the Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority (DASPA), brings over two decades of expertise in port management and maritime administration to this pivotal role. Minister Charles-Pemberton emphasized that this appointment underscores Dominica’s commitment to advancing its interests in maritime safety, ocean governance, and the sustainable development of its blue economy on the global stage. She expressed confidence that Bardouille will represent the nation with distinction, dedication, and national pride, further strengthening Dominica’s position in international maritime affairs.
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DA named leading nature destination, confirms world-class eco reputation, says tourism minister
Dominica has once again been recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Nature Destination at the 32nd World Travel Awards, held last month at the Sandals Grande in Saint Lucia. The prestigious accolade underscores the island nation’s unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism and its growing reputation as a haven for nature and wellness enthusiasts. Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton expressed immense pride in the achievement, attributing it to the collective efforts of the country’s tourism stakeholders and the unique natural beauty of Dominica. The event, attended by top tourism professionals and industry leaders from across the Caribbean and North America, celebrated Dominica’s innovative approach to eco-tourism. Charles-Pemberton highlighted the recently launched “Nature of Love” campaign by Discover Dominica, which invites visitors to experience the island’s warmth, beauty, and deep connection with nature. Additionally, Jungle Bay Dominica was named the Caribbean’s Leading Retreat 2025, further solidifying Dominica’s dedication to wellness-focused travel. Other local businesses, including Leisure Car Rental, Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort and Spa, and Just Go Dominica, were also recognized for their contributions to the island’s tourism excellence. The minister extended congratulations to all winners and nominees, emphasizing the shared mission of showcasing Dominica’s “Nature of Love” to the world.
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Antigua and Barbuda Musicians Rock Independence Celebrations in Toronto, Canada
The vibrant sounds of Antigua and Barbuda echoed through Toronto as local musicians took center stage during the nation’s Independence Day celebrations. Held in the heart of Canada’s largest city, the event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean nation, drawing a diverse audience of expatriates and music enthusiasts alike. Performers delivered electrifying renditions of traditional calypso, soca, and reggae tunes, creating an atmosphere of unity and festivity. The celebration not only honored Antigua and Barbuda’s journey to independence but also highlighted the enduring connection between the diaspora and their homeland. Organizers emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and the role of music in fostering community ties across borders. The event concluded with a grand finale, leaving attendees inspired and eager for future cultural exchanges.
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Cummings on Grace’s contract: That’s the sprat, whale yet to come
A political storm has erupted in St. Vincent and the Grenadines following revelations about a EC$144,000 one-year contract awarded to Grace Walters, the North Windward candidate for the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP). Daniel Cummings, the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for West Kingstown, has publicly criticized the contract, labeling it a ‘disgrace’ and vowing to expose further details. The contract, part of the Strengthening Health System Resilience Project (SHSRP), runs from January 15, 2025, to January 14, 2026, and aims to support health sector reform. Cummings dismissed Walters’ claims that his objections were rooted in racism or sexism, emphasizing that his concerns are based on the contract’s legitimacy and transparency. Walters, who took unpaid leave from her hospital administrator role to accept the contract, defended the agreement as a standard practice under the ULP government. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves have also backed Walters, urging Cummings to address his own past contracts with the CWSA. Cummings, however, maintains that his contract was fundamentally different, as it involved continuing his role as CEO under a new arrangement. The controversy has reignited debates about government accountability and the allocation of public resources, with Cummings promising to reveal more details in the near future.