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  • PNP mourns death of Ambassador Curtis Ward

    PNP mourns death of Ambassador Curtis Ward

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s political and diplomatic communities are mourning the passing of Ambassador Curtis Ward, who died Sunday night at his residence in Maryland, United States. The prominent intellectual and diplomat was celebrated for his exceptional contributions to Jamaica’s foreign policy discourse and international engagement.

    The People’s National Party (PNP) issued an official statement expressing profound grief over the loss, characterizing Ward as both a distinguished patriot and an influential voice within Jamaica’s diplomatic circles. Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Senator Donna Scott-Mottley, led the tributes, emphasizing Ward’s unique ability to contextualize complex global developments within appropriate historical and geopolitical frameworks.

    According to Senator Scott-Mottley, Ambassador Ward possessed remarkable analytical capabilities that made intricate international matters accessible to broader audiences. His expertise proved particularly valuable during periods of heightened global instability and uncertainty, where his insights consistently enriched public debate and informed high-level policymaking processes.

    “He represented a reliable source of thoughtful analysis on virtually any international subject,” Senator Scott-Mottley noted. “One could always reach out to him for clear explanations and profound understanding of global dynamics that strengthened Jamaica’s position in international affairs.”

    The late ambassador was remembered as a committed patriot who dedicated his life to serving Jamaica with exceptional distinction both domestically and internationally. His career exemplified meaningful public service, with his scholarly approach and principled engagement leaving an indelible mark on Jamaica’s diplomatic landscape.

    Senator Scott-Mottley concluded that while Ambassador Ward’s passing creates a significant void within Jamaica’s intellectual and diplomatic community, his legacy of service, scholarship, and principled engagement will continue to guide and inspire future generations. The People’s National Party extended heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Ward’s wife Sonia, along with his family, friends, colleagues, and all those touched by his work and wisdom.

  • Sergeant Georgia Chambers-Dawson laid to rest

    Sergeant Georgia Chambers-Dawson laid to rest

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) paid solemn tribute to Sergeant Georgia Chambers-Dawson, a distinguished officer whose life was commemorated during a heartfelt thanksgiving service at Rudgemount United Church in Mandeville on Saturday, January 10.

    Sergeant Chambers-Dawson, who passed away in November 2025, dedicated a quarter-century of exemplary service to the JCF, earning widespread respect for her unwavering professionalism and profound commitment to duty.

    The memorial ceremony featured poignant tributes from various dignitaries and colleagues. Senior Superintendent of Police Michael Morris delivered a moving eulogy on behalf of the Governor General, emphasizing Sergeant Chambers-Dawson’s significant contributions to the force and her enduring legacy of integrity and service.

    Personal reflections were shared by her batchmates, illustrating the deep bonds forged through years of shared service. Family friend Shavena Curtis offered a touching remembrance, capturing the sergeant’s personal qualities and the void left by her passing.

    The service concluded with her interment at Melrose Cemetery, attended by family members, colleagues, and loved ones who gathered to honor her memory and celebrate her life both as a dedicated officer and a cherished individual.

  • Flow Foundation launches $5m entrepreneurship programme in St Thomas

    Flow Foundation launches $5m entrepreneurship programme in St Thomas

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant entrepreneurial initiative has been launched in St. Thomas through a collaborative partnership between the Flow Foundation and Young Women and Men of Purpose. The $5 million Jamaican dollar REAP Entrepreneurship Programme represents a substantial investment in local small business development.

    The program was formally inaugurated on January 7th at Golden Shore Resort in Lyssons, Morant Bay, with operations scheduled from December 2025 through May 2026. This six-month intensive initiative will provide comprehensive business training to 30 selected emerging entrepreneurs from the region.

    Curriculum design addresses critical business development needs with modules covering entrepreneurship fundamentals, business owner wellness practices, small business accounting systems, marketing strategies, and investment pitch preparation. The program structure combines classroom instruction with practical mentorship opportunities, including business field trips and conference participation.

    Lanisia Rhoden, Executive Director of Young Women and Men of Purpose, explained the program’s conception: “We developed REAP specifically to overcome the structural challenges facing new entrepreneurs, particularly the need for guided support during business formation stages.”

    Additional technical support will be provided through collaboration with Vision 2030 Jamaica agents operating under the Planning Institute of Jamaica. Participant Kayan Douglas, owner of Kadres Designs, noted the practical applicability of the curriculum, particularly for brand development and customer engagement strategies.

    A competitive element will see the top ten business pitches receive $100,000 JMD each in seed funding to stimulate business expansion and innovation. Rhys Campbell, Executive Director of both Liberty Caribbean Foundation and Flow Foundation, emphasized the program’s broader economic significance: “This reflects our commitment to small businesses that serve as engines for economic activity and community development throughout Jamaica.”

  • Ernie Smith’s re-recorded ‘Pitta Patta’ returns to reggae chart

    Ernie Smith’s re-recorded ‘Pitta Patta’ returns to reggae chart

    Ernie Smith’s iconic 1970s reggae anthem ‘Pitta Patta’ has been revitalized through a collaborative re-recording with contemporary artist Ed Robinson, achieving remarkable commercial success decades after its original release. Produced by dancehall luminary Mr Vegas, the modern reinterpretation has dominated South Florida’s Reggae Chart for two consecutive weeks, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the classic track.

    The creative initiative originated from Robinson and Mr Vegas, both longtime admirers of Smith’s original work. They approached the project with meticulous care, seeking to introduce the timeless melody to contemporary audiences while preserving its authentic essence. The updated version incorporates subtle dancehall influences and enhanced production quality designed to engage younger listeners without alienating the song’s established fanbase.

    Robinson emphasized the philosophical alignment behind the collaboration, stating: ‘We recognized the timelessness of Pitta Patta and felt this was the optimal moment to reintroduce the song to new generations while honoring its original spirit. This represented a natural convergence of creative minds grounded in mutual respect.’

    Smith, who originally recorded the track at Federal Records alongside other notable works including ‘Life is Just For Living’ and ‘Duppy Gunman,’ granted his full endorsement to the modernization effort. His distinctive easy-listening style during the 1970s provided a melodic counterpoint to the more militant roots-reggae prevalent at the time, earning him particular admiration among conservative Jamaican audiences.

    According to Robinson, Smith has enthusiastically embraced the contemporary adaptation, viewing musical evolution as essential to artistic relevance. The veteran musician believes that allowing his work to assume modern characteristics ensures its continued vitality and cultural significance for successive generations of music enthusiasts.

  • Jamaica announces first-ever team for eFIBA World Championship

    Jamaica announces first-ever team for eFIBA World Championship

    JAMAICA ENTERS VIRTUAL ARENA WITH INAUGURAL E-NATIONAL SQUAD

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a landmark move for Caribbean sports, the Jamaica Basketball Association has officially announced its first-ever national esports basketball team. This pioneering squad will represent the nation in the prestigious FIBA World Championship (eFIBA), marking Jamaica’s formal debut in competitive digital basketball.

    The selected athletes, comprising six elite gamers, will compete on the NBA 2K26 platform using PlayStation consoles. Team captain Haughton Richards will lead the roster alongside Cristian Benjamin, Curt Daley, Jonathan Lee, Derek Walcott, and Shemar Williams. D’Andre Forbes has been appointed as team manager to oversee strategic operations.

    COMPETITION ROADMAP AND FORMAT

    The qualification journey commences on January 23, 2026, with pre-qualifier matches that will divide eight national teams into two groups. Jamaica finds itself in Group B alongside regional opponents Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, and Guatemala. The top three teams from each group will progress to regional qualifiers scheduled for February 28.

    The competitive structure will then transition to a double-elimination format during the regional finals on March 1, 2026. This phase will grant the top four teams two opportunities to secure advancement to the championship finals.

    SIGNIFICANCE AND BROADER IMPLICATIONS

    This initiative represents a significant convergence of traditional sports governance with emerging digital competitions. FIBA’s endorsement of esports through its official eFIBA tournament signals growing institutional recognition of competitive gaming as a legitimate sporting discipline.

    The Jamaican team’s participation not only expands the country’s sporting representation internationally but also creates new pathways for athlete development in the digital sports domain. This move acknowledges the evolving landscape of international competition where virtual and physical athletics increasingly coexist.

  • Sergeant Georgia Chambers-Dawson laid to rest

    Sergeant Georgia Chambers-Dawson laid to rest

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) paid solemn tribute to Sergeant Georgia Chambers-Dawson during a memorial service at Rudgemount United Church in Mandeville on Saturday, January 10. Colleagues from the Protective Services Division gathered to honor their departed comrade who dedicated a quarter-century of exemplary service to the nation’s police force.

    Sergeant Chambers-Dawson, who passed away in November 2025, was remembered for her unwavering commitment and professional excellence throughout her 25-year career. The commemorative ceremony featured heartfelt tributes from multiple sectors of Jamaican society, reflecting the profound impact of her service.

    Senior Superintendent of Police Michael Morris delivered a moving eulogy on behalf of the Governor General, emphasizing Sergeant Chambers-Dawson’s exceptional dedication to duty and her significant contributions to law enforcement. The service also included personal reminiscences from her academy batchmates and a poignant remembrance by family friend Shavena Curtis, painting a comprehensive portrait of a life devoted to both public service and personal relationships.

    Following the religious ceremony, attendees proceeded to Melrose Cemetery for the interment, where Sergeant Chambers-Dawson was laid to rest with full honors befitting her distinguished service record. The memorial events underscored the JCF’s tradition of honoring fallen officers while providing closure for colleagues and family members alike.

  • Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid by mutual consent

    Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid by mutual consent

    In a significant managerial shakeup, Real Madrid FC announced on Monday the immediate departure of head coach Xabi Alonso through mutual agreement. The decision comes precisely 24 hours after the club’s disappointing 3-2 defeat against arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final held in Saudi Arabia.

    The Basque coach, who succeeded veteran Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti in June 2025, has been replaced by former Madrid defender Álvaro Arbeloa. The 42-year-old Castilla reserve team manager has been promoted to first-team coaching duties, though the duration of his contract remains unspecified according to the club’s official statements.

    Club officials emphasized that Alonso’s exit was reached through mutual consent, stating: ‘Real Madrid announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his tenure as first-team coach to an end.’

    Alonso’s brief reign at the Santiago Bernabéu has been characterized by inconsistent performances despite a late-year resurgence. The team currently occupies second position in La Liga, trailing leaders Barcelona by four points. His position had previously been under serious threat toward the conclusion of 2025, before a five-match winning streak temporarily secured his continuation.

    Arbeloa brings considerable institutional knowledge to the role, having developed his coaching career entirely within Real Madrid’s academy system since 2020. His promotion represents the club’s preference for internal solutions during transitional periods. The managerial change occurs at a critical juncture in Madrid’s season, with important domestic and European commitments approaching.

  • Jamaican diplomat and economist, Trevor Livingston Gordon-Somers, is dead

    Jamaican diplomat and economist, Trevor Livingston Gordon-Somers, is dead

    HANOVER, Jamaica — The global diplomatic community mourns the passing of Trevor Livingston Gordon-Somers, the distinguished Jamaican economist and United Nations peacebuilder who died peacefully in the United States on Thursday at age 87. Surrounded by family in his final moments, Gordon-Somers concluded a remarkable life dedicated to international service and humanitarian leadership.

    His son, Kimathi Gordon-Somers, a law professor based in the United States, confirmed the passing of his father, describing him as “a man of quiet strength, principled leadership and unwavering commitment to humanity” whose transformative work impacted nations, communities and generations across the globe.

    Gordon-Somers’ exceptional career with the United Nations spanned thirty-five years, beginning with his 1965 appointment to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in New York. His professional trajectory carried him across multiple continents where he held strategic diplomatic positions within the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, with significant postings in Egypt and Zambia before returning to UN headquarters.

    His steady diplomatic approach and thoughtful leadership earned him widespread respect throughout the international community. He subsequently directed UNDP operations in Guyana and Barbados, where he significantly expanded development initiatives and humanitarian programs throughout South America and the Caribbean region.

    Perhaps his most historically significant assignment commenced on November 20, 1992, when he was appointed Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Liberia following United Nations Security Council Resolution 788. During one of Liberia’s most devastating periods, Gordon-Somers spearheaded critical diplomatic efforts to mediate the civil conflict, guiding UN peacekeeping operations with extraordinary courage, compassion and strategic resolve until December 11, 1994.

    Following his retirement from the United Nations, Gordon-Somers returned to Jamaica with his wife Joy, who hails from Hanover. Despite stepping back from international duties, he remained actively engaged in public service, contributing his expertise to community development initiatives. He notably volunteered as chairman of Roots 96.1 FM, a Kingston-based community radio station operated by the Mustard Seed Communities.

    At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gordon-Somers and his wife relocated from their Mona home in Kingston to Miami, Florida, to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

    He leaves behind a powerful legacy carried forward by his wife, two sons Scott and Kimathi, and five grandchildren who continue to embody his values, grace and profound sense of service to humanity.

  • Face-to-face classes resume at Lacovia Primary after Hurricane Melissa disruption

    Face-to-face classes resume at Lacovia Primary after Hurricane Melissa disruption

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — Lacovia Primary and Infant School in St Elizabeth has achieved a significant milestone by fully restoring in-person education for all enrolled students, marking the end of months of disruptive rotational schedules implemented after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact. Principal Stacia Williams Brown confirmed the complete resumption of academic activities, expressing profound gratitude for overcoming substantial infrastructural challenges that had severely compromised daily operations.

    The educational institution, which initially adopted a phased reopening approach in November following the hurricane’s passage, has now successfully reintegrated its entire student body. Current enrollment stands at 293 pupils, with attendance figures demonstrating consistent improvement as normalcy returns. School authorities continue outreach efforts to locate remaining students who were displaced due to extensive facility damage, with some families having relocated to other parishes temporarily.

    Principal Williams Brown detailed the considerable damage sustained during the hurricane, which critically affected essential facilities including student bathrooms, the administrative block, and perimeter fencing. Reconstruction efforts led by the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information through the National Education Trust (NET) have been progressing steadily since commencement in December. School administration anticipates full restoration of administrative operations within approximately three months, allowing staff to return to their original office spaces.

    The principal extended appreciation to the Education Ministry for their sustained support and to contractors executing rehabilitation work, noting that the entire school community remains encouraged by the ongoing assistance and visible progress in restoring the educational environment.

  • Sheldon Millington’s lifelong passion for giving back

    Sheldon Millington’s lifelong passion for giving back

    Sheldon Millington’s journey from the economically challenged streets of Kingston’s Whitfield Town to his current role as a philanthropic corporate executive demonstrates how early experiences can shape a lifetime of service. His childhood exposure to poverty instilled in him a profound commitment to helping others, a value he continues to exemplify through numerous charitable initiatives.

    Millington’s philanthropic philosophy took root during his school years when he received an unexpected scholarship recognizing not academic achievement but his consistent compassion in assisting ill classmates. This early validation of his caring nature solidified his dedication to service. Throughout high school, he established a committee to support students who couldn’t afford meals, demonstrating organizational skills that would later enhance his humanitarian efforts.

    The corporate executive has since channeled his resources into substantial community projects. Through the House of SDM Educational Grant, Millington has provided comprehensive educational support to over 300 young children by covering their entire booklist expenses. His community involvement extends to Labor Day projects, including the renovation of the Gilmore Early Childhood Basic School, technology donations for students, and creating employment opportunities across various organizations.

    Millington’s humanitarian response following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in Westmoreland showcased his deep commitment to practical assistance. Personally leading relief efforts, he distributed 310 care packages, 100 children’s snack bags, and clothing for affected families. The emotional impact of witnessing the hurricane’s destruction motivated what he described as an unavoidable moral imperative to help fellow Jamaicans in crisis.

    His ongoing community engagement includes seasonal initiatives such as Christmas events for senior citizens in his childhood neighborhood and New Year’s celebrations for children in Rae Town. Millington attributes his sustained philanthropic drive to what he describes as an inherent nature ‘characterized by love, compassion and a willingness to extend assistance beyond immediate circles.’ His life’s work embodies a philosophy where community service transcends charity to become a fundamental aspect of corporate leadership and personal identity.