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  • JPS releases list of communities to be restored by March 31

    JPS releases list of communities to be restored by March 31

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica Public Service (JPS) has unveiled its comprehensive strategy to achieve near-complete electrification by spring’s end, targeting the nation’s most isolated communities across four western parishes. The utility provider’s latest announcement identifies specific localities in St James, Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, and Hanover scheduled to receive grid connection before March 31.

    This development follows JPS’s successful February initiative that reduced the number of powerless households to under 9,000—representing just 1% of their total customer base. The upcoming phase promises to restore electricity to approximately 5,000 additional customers, marking a significant milestone in Jamaica’s infrastructure recovery efforts.

    The company acknowledges substantial technical challenges ahead, with crews preparing to navigate extremely rocky terrain where conventional machinery cannot operate. Pole installation in these remote areas requires specialized techniques that may prolong the process, but JPS maintains unwavering commitment to completing the task.

    Corporate communications emphasize that some households within targeted communities might experience delayed restoration due to property-specific issues. Customers whose buildings suffered structural damage or flooding during recent hurricanes are advised to commission certified electricians for safety inspections before reconnection.

    JPS anticipates approximately 3,000 customers will remain without power after March, with another restoration list scheduled for publication in April. The current initiative covers numerous communities including Huntley and Kemshot in St James; extensive areas of Westmoreland from Alma to York Mountain; multiple districts in St Elizabeth from Allen Crescent to Zeena Way; and the Haughton Grove to Miles Town corridor in Hanover.

  • Cuba restores power to most households after major blackout

    Cuba restores power to most households after major blackout

    HAVANA, Cuba – Cuban energy officials confirmed on Thursday that electrical service had been largely restored following a massive nationwide blackout that plunged significant portions of the country into darkness. The widespread outage, which began Wednesday afternoon, affected approximately two-thirds of the Caribbean nation, including the capital city of Havana.

    The Ministry of Energy reported that by late Thursday afternoon, the national grid had been successfully reconnected with approximately 80% of households in Havana regaining power. The initial trigger for the catastrophic failure was identified as a technical breakdown at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, Cuba’s largest power generation facility, located in the central-western region.

    However, authorities emphasized that the root cause extends beyond mechanical failure to systemic vulnerabilities within Cuba’s energy infrastructure. The fundamental issue stems from critical fuel shortages that have crippled the country’s ability to maintain backup generator support for the national grid. This scarcity directly results from stringent United States restrictions on oil shipments to the island nation.

    Cuba’s electrical generation system has deteriorated significantly, with regular daily outages lasting up to 20 hours in some regions becoming commonplace. The current crisis affects all 9.6 million residents and occurs amidst heightened geopolitical tensions following the United States’ diplomatic recognition of Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate leader on January 3, effectively ousting Nicolás Maduro.

    This political shift has proven particularly consequential for Cuba, as Maduro’s administration previously supplied approximately half of Cuba’s fuel imports. Although Washington initially imposed a comprehensive oil embargo following Maduro’s departure, subsequent modifications eased restrictions after neighboring Caribbean nations warned of potential economic collapse and humanitarian consequences.

    Despite these adjustments, the Trump administration maintained substantial pressure through various blockade measures, leaving oil shipments from Caracas to Havana in operational limbo. The complete cessation of oil imports since January 9 has forced airlines to reduce services to the island and exacerbated Cuba’s prolonged economic difficulties.

  • Waterhouse, Cavalier score win in rescheduled JPL games

    Waterhouse, Cavalier score win in rescheduled JPL games

    In Thursday’s rescheduled Jamaica Premier League fixtures, two decisive victories reshaped the league standings as Waterhouse FC and reigning champions Cavalier SC both secured wins while avenging first-round defeats.

    Waterhouse FC extended their impressive unbeaten streak to seven consecutive matches with a narrow 1-0 triumph over Portmore United at Ferdie Neita Park. The match’s pivotal moment arrived during first-half stoppage time when Mario Simms netted the sole goal, propelling his team to fifth position in the current league rankings. Portmore United’s challenges compounded in the 73rd minute when Romeo Guthrie received a red card, reducing his side to ten men for the remainder of the contest.

    Meanwhile, Cavalier SC delivered a strong performance against Molynes United at Stadium East, claiming a 2-1 victory that strengthens their position in the league table. Christopher Ainsworth broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute, followed by Daryl Massicot’s decisive strike in the 73rd minute. Although Nicholas Nelson managed a consolation goal for Molynes United deep into second-half stoppage time, the effort proved insufficient to alter the match outcome. This result positions Cavalier SC comfortably in sixth place, now maintaining a four-point advantage over seventh-ranked Dunbeholden FC.

    These matches demonstrated both teams’ resilience and competitive determination as the Jamaica Premier League season progresses toward its climax, with both Waterhouse FC and Cavalier SC building momentum at a crucial stage of the competition.

  • Edwin Allen boys get $1-million Champs boost from former student athletes

    Edwin Allen boys get $1-million Champs boost from former student athletes

    CLARENDON, Jamaica—In a significant pre-championship morale booster, Edwin Allen High School’s boys’ track and field program has received a substantial donation of $1 million Jamaican dollars from four distinguished alumni athletes. The contribution comes just weeks before the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Championships scheduled for March 24-28.

    The former student-athletes—Jevaughn Powell, Bryan Levell, Dennick Luke, and Delano Kennedy—personally presented the financial gift during a ceremony at their alma mater in Frankfield, Clarendon on Thursday. This collective gesture from accomplished professionals highlights their commitment to nurturing the next generation of track talent.

    The timing proves particularly crucial for the boys’ team, which finished eighth overall with 58 points in last year’s championship standings. The injection of funds will potentially enhance training facilities, equipment, and overall preparation for the upcoming competition.

    Each donor brings impressive credentials: Bryan Levell captured bronze in the 200m at the World Championships in Tokyo and achieved the Class 1 sprint double during his final competitive year at Edwin Allen in 2022. Delano Kennedy secured the Class 1 400m title in 2023, while Jevaughn Powell—a silver medalist in the 4x400m relay at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene—previously won the Class 2 400m event at the 2017 ISSA Championships before transferring to Kingston College. Powell’s notable 48.11-second victory in that race outperformed Antonio Watson of Petersfield (48.54) and Evaldo Whitehorne of Calabar (48.78).

    The alumni’s generosity not only provides material support but also serves as inspiration for current team members aspiring to follow in their footsteps.

  • Venezuela to protect mining firms as diplomatic ties restored says US

    Venezuela to protect mining firms as diplomatic ties restored says US

    In a significant diplomatic shift, the United States has moved to restore full diplomatic relations with Venezuela following high-level assurances from Caracas regarding security guarantees for foreign mining investments. The development emerged after Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s two-day visit to Venezuela, where he held discussions with interim President Delcy Rodriguez.

    Burgum, representing the Trump administration, reported receiving explicit commitments from Venezuelan authorities that they would ensure adequate security protection for international mining corporations seeking to operate in the resource-rich nation. The Interior Secretary characterized the bilateral meetings as “fantastically positive” and indicated substantial investor interest in Venezuela’s extensive mineral wealth, including gold, diamonds, bauxite, and coltan—critical components in electronics manufacturing.

    The diplomatic breakthrough follows the January 3rd military operation that resulted in the capture of former leader Nicolas Maduro, who along with his wife was transported to New York to face narcotics trafficking charges. Since Maduro’s ouster, the Trump administration has recognized Rodriguez as interim leader contingent upon guaranteed American access to Venezuela’s natural resources.

    This reconciliation process gained further momentum with the US State Department’s Thursday announcement formalizing the re-establishment of diplomatic and consular relations between the two nations. The department stated this measure would facilitate collaborative efforts toward stabilizing Venezuela, supporting economic recovery, and advancing political reconciliation through a phased transition to democratically elected governance.

    The warming relations coincide with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright’s earlier visit, during which he advocated for substantial increases in Venezuelan oil production and highlighted mutual opportunities for economic cooperation. Both officials’ assessments align with President Trump’s strategic vision for energy dominance and resource security.

    Mining operations in Venezuela are primarily concentrated in the Orinoco Mining Arc region, known for activity by armed groups—a security challenge that Burgum expressed confidence the current administration would effectively address to protect foreign investments.

  • PHOTOS: SAINT models touch down at Paris Fashion Week

    PHOTOS: SAINT models touch down at Paris Fashion Week

    PARIS – The global fashion spotlight has intensified on Jamaican modeling talent as SAINT International’s elite representatives make an indelible mark at the ongoing Paris Fashion Week. The four-model collective, comprising Dru Campbell, Jessie Craig, Sanique Dill, and Naki Depass, has been commanding attention across the most prestigious runways in the French capital.

    This formidable Jamaican contingent is currently showcasing the Fall 2026 Ready-To-Wear collections for an impressive roster of luxury design houses. Their runway appearances span the avant-garde aesthetics of Anrealage, the architectural designs of Acne Studios, and the timeless elegance of Dior. Additionally, they are featuring prominently in presentations for Off-White, the conceptual creations of Julie Kegels, and the futuristic designs of Rabanne.

    The presence of these Caribbean models at fashion’s most prestigious event signals a significant shift in the industry’s diversity standards and global representation. Their successful casting across multiple major brands demonstrates both their individual versatility and the growing international recognition of Jamaican modeling talent.

    Fashion critics and industry insiders have noted the powerful presence these models bring to the runway, combining distinctive Caribbean beauty with professional precision that meets the exacting standards of European haute couture. Their participation in Paris Fashion Week represents not just personal career milestones but a breakthrough moment for Caribbean representation in high fashion.

    The continued success of SAINT International’s models at such a competitive international event highlights the agency’s effective development of world-class modeling talent from Jamaica and the broader Caribbean region.

  • Jamaican Gov’t mulls installation of solar system at its embassy in Havana

    Jamaican Gov’t mulls installation of solar system at its embassy in Havana

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In response to Cuba’s severe energy crisis, the Jamaican government has announced urgent plans to install solar panels at its embassy in Havana. The initiative aims to maintain diplomatic operations amid extensive power outages that have created challenging working conditions for embassy staff.

    Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith addressed the situation during Wednesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing at Jamaica House, publicly acknowledging the dedication of embassy personnel working under considerable strain. “We’re seeking to install a solar system at our embassy because the embassy itself is severely challenged,” Johnson Smith stated. “The staff there, I really have to express [the Government’s] appreciation to them publicly because they are standing up under the strain.”

    The minister emphasized that solar implementation would enable more predictable operational hours for the diplomatic mission. This move comes as Cuba experiences some of its worst blackouts in decades, exacerbated by complex geopolitical factors.

    Cuba’s energy crisis has deepened significantly following the disruption of oil supplies from Venezuela, traditionally its primary energy partner. The situation deteriorated further after the Trump administration intensified the six-decade-old U.S. embargo in January, implementing additional sanctions. Concurrently, Mexico ceased oil shipments to Cuba under pressure from U.S. threats, creating a perfect storm that has left many Cuban institutions and households without reliable electricity.

  • Gov’t to discontinue current arrangement with Cuba regarding deployment of medical professionals

    Gov’t to discontinue current arrangement with Cuba regarding deployment of medical professionals

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade announced Thursday the formal discontinuation of its longstanding medical cooperation agreement with Cuba, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations between the Caribbean nations.

    The termination follows unsuccessful negotiations between both governments to establish new terms for technical cooperation after the previous arrangement lapsed in February 2023. Despite extended discussions, authorities from both countries failed to reach consensus on the conditions governing the program that has brought Cuban healthcare professionals to Jamaican public health facilities for years.

    In a strategic transition move, the Jamaican government has proposed individual employment contracts for the currently deployed Cuban medical personnel. This interim solution would allow these professionals to complete their scheduled tenure in Jamaica under local labor regulations, ensuring both service continuity and stability for the healthcare workers affected by the diplomatic decision.

    The Cuban medical contingent has made substantial contributions to Jamaica’s public health system, particularly through specialized eye care programs and general medical services provided by doctors and nurses across the island. Their presence has been instrumental in addressing healthcare shortages in various communities, making their continued service through alternative arrangements a priority for Jamaican authorities.

    The dissolution of this bilateral agreement represents not just a technical change in cooperation terms but potentially signals broader shifts in Caribbean diplomatic relationships and South-South cooperation frameworks that have characterized regional relations for decades.

  • War in the Middle East: latest developments

    War in the Middle East: latest developments

    The Middle East conflict has entered a perilous new phase with escalating military actions and significant regional repercussions. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi declared a state of economic near-emergency amid soaring inflation, authorizing military trials for price-gouging traders during a military academy address.

    NATO announced the enhancement of its ballistic missile defense systems as Iran continues regional strikes, including an incident where a missile was intercepted over Turkish territory. The alliance’s 32 member states unanimously agreed to maintain heightened defense readiness until threats from Iran’s indiscriminate attacks diminish.

    Israeli Military Chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir revealed that US-Israeli operations against Iran are advancing to a new stage focused on dismantling the Islamic Republic’s military capabilities, promising additional undisclosed “surprises” in the campaign.

    Regional infrastructure suffered direct hits as an Iranian missile strike ignited a major blaze at Bahrain’s primary state-owned oil refinery. Meanwhile, Western embassy staff in Riyadh received shelter-in-place orders following earlier attacks on US diplomatic compounds.

    Former US President Donald Trump expressed support for Iranian Kurdish fighters potentially launching offensives into Iran, stating he would “be all for it.” Trump further asserted his intention to influence the selection of Iran’s next supreme leader, criticizing Ayatollah Khamenei’s son as “a lightweight” while drawing comparisons to US involvement in Venezuelan leadership transitions.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any ground invasion would bring “disaster” to the Islamic Republic’s enemies, asserting Iran’s preparedness for confrontation despite ongoing US-Israeli strikes.

    The human cost continues to mount with Lebanon reporting 102 fatalities and 638 injuries from Israeli strikes since the country’s involvement in the conflict began earlier this week.

    Global markets reacted strongly as West Texas Intermediate crude surged over 5% to $78.88 per barrel—the highest since January last year—while Brent crude jumped 3.6% to $84.34 amid supply disruption fears.

    Abu Dhabi experienced missile threats triggering air defense responses and loud explosions, according to resident reports and official statements from UAE emergency management authorities.

    Iran intensified internal controls by warning citizens using VPNs to bypass a nationwide communications blackout that has reduced internet connectivity to approximately 1% of normal levels, effectively isolating the country from global digital networks.

  • UTech mentor and mentee of the year become co-authors of ‘The Ripple Effect: 5 Keys to Making a Difference that Lasts’

    UTech mentor and mentee of the year become co-authors of ‘The Ripple Effect: 5 Keys to Making a Difference that Lasts’

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — An inspirational mentorship relationship born from the University of Technology’s Alumni Mentorship Programme has transcended conventional boundaries, resulting in an extraordinary literary collaboration. Sandrina Davis, honored as Mentor of the Year 2025, and her protégé Jinel Gordon, named Mentee of the Year 2025, have jointly authored “The Ripple Effect: 5 Keys to Making a Difference that Lasts,” scheduled for public release on Sunday, March 15.

    Their partnership, initially structured through institutional pairing, has flourished into a profound shared expedition exploring leadership dynamics, purposeful living, and sustainable community impact. Their collaborative journey provides tangible evidence of the transformative potential inherent in deliberate mentorship relationships.

    The forthcoming publication delineates five actionable principles for creating enduring positive influence: selecting empathy above sympathy, enabling empowerment without causing embarrassment, practicing attentive listening prior to action, cultivating authentic connections through genuine care, and adopting mentorship as a catalyst for legacy expansion.

    Davis contributes insights drawn from her extensive leadership tenure and community service throughout Jamaica, covering the initial four principles. Gordon completes the conceptual framework by articulating the fifth key regarding mentorship’s multiplicative legacy effect, thereby symbolically closing the narrative circle.

    “This manuscript transcends theoretical discourse,” Davis emphasized. “It constitutes empirical demonstration of outcomes achievable when individuals place faith in one another’s potential.”

    Gordon characterized her participation as fundamentally transformative, noting: “Mentorship profoundly influenced not merely my professional objectives but my core self-conception. Collaborative authorship embodies the synergistic possibilities when dedicated guidance converges with unwavering commitment.”

    The official book launch will serve as a ceremonial recognition of mentorship’s value, leadership development, and the cumulative power of consistent, purposeful engagement.
    “The Ripple Effect” extends an impassioned appeal to Jamaican citizens, academic communities, corporate professionals, family figures, and organizational leaders to acknowledge that genuine influence originates not from formal positions but from deliberate intentionality.