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  • US pledges continued support for Haiti

    US pledges continued support for Haiti

    As Haiti commemorates the 222nd anniversary of its independence from France, international voices have united in addressing the nation’s profound security and governance challenges. The United States, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has reaffirmed its commitment to a long-term partnership with the Caribbean nation. This pledge centers on a multi-faceted approach to strengthen security infrastructures, restore national stability, and lay the groundwork for sustainable economic prosperity.

    A cornerstone of the US strategy involves robust support for the establishment of a specialized Gang Suppression Force (GSF). This unit is designed to operate in concert with Haitian security forces to dismantle the pervasive control of criminal gangs, including groups designated by the US as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Rubio’s statement also acknowledged the incremental progress made by Haiti’s transitional government and its provisional electoral council as they prepare for the country’s first national elections in over a decade, scheduled for 2026. The US has vowed to continue encouraging and assisting these efforts to ensure a secure and democratic electoral process.

    Echoing the call for tranquility from a spiritual perspective, Pope Leo XIV has championed the concept of a ‘disarmed peace’ for Haiti. This doctrine, as welcomed and elucidated by Bishop Gontrand Décoste of Jérémie, demands a complete cessation of hostilities and the absolute absence of firearms. It is framed not merely as a ceasefire but as a profound process of dialogue aimed at persuading those who wield power through violence to voluntarily surrender their arms. The ultimate objective is the restoration of state authority and national security.

    Despite these international endorsements, the ground reality remains dire. Bishop Décoste conceded that Haiti is effectively held hostage by coalitions of armed gangs and terrorists. These entities continue to paralyze the economy, blockade critical transportation routes, and fuel an expansive regional drug trade. The bishop condemned a culture where certain parties profit from the widespread insecurity and the illicit sale of ammunition, a stark contrast to the abject poverty endured by the general populace.

    Nevertheless, a thread of resilient optimism persists. Drawing inspiration from Pope John Paul II’s historic visit 42 years ago and the enduring cry of ‘Haiti will live,’ the Haitian church and its people are engaging in acts of spiritual resistance. Marian pilgrimages in Port-au-Prince have transformed into symbols of defiance against the prevailing darkness, embodying the hopeful embrace of Pope Leo XIV’s assertion: ‘Evil will not prevail.’

  • FEEL to launch new wave of donor engagement in 2026

    FEEL to launch new wave of donor engagement in 2026

    The Foundation for the Enhancement and Enrichment of Life (FEEL) is embarking on an ambitious donor engagement strategy for 2026 with the establishment of the FEEL 1000 Club, a collaborative network uniting individual philanthropists and corporate entities to bolster the organization’s humanitarian mission.

    In a year-end statement released December 30, the Trinidad and Tobago-based nonprofit issued an open invitation to both public and private sector stakeholders to participate in what it described as an “impactful initiative” designed to strengthen community support systems nationwide.

    Reflecting on a remarkably productive 2025, FEEL characterized the past year as a period of disciplined leadership, strategic expansion, and steadfast dedication to public service. The organization reported substantial scaling of operations, with monthly distributions of food provisions and cleaning supplies reaching 130 registered nonprofit organizations—support valued at exceeding $1.1 million monthly.

    Educational institutions also benefited from FEEL’s outreach, with quarterly deliveries of stationery and sanitation materials provided to 50 schools, ensuring essential resources for thousands of students. Through strengthened international partnerships, the organization received 55 forty-foot containers of staple food items, medical supplies, and household goods—totaling over 300,000 individual items with an estimated value surpassing $45 million.

    The foundation’s 2025 achievements were further amplified by two successful fundraising events: the Fourth Annual Charity Golf Tournament and a traditional Chinese dinner. These gatherings united cross-sector supporters from corporate, civil society, and philanthropic circles, reinforcing FEEL’s reputation as a trusted agent of national development.

    Chairman Dr. Sterling Frost acknowledged the board of directors for maintaining FEEL’s operational efficiency, transparency, and high-impact delivery standards. As the organization marks its 33rd year of service, Frost extended gratitude to numerous contributors including Fernandes Industrial Centre, Food for the Poor, United Way TT, Republic Bank Ltd, and multiple partners from energy, finance, and manufacturing sectors.

    Frost concluded with appreciation for warehouse staff, distribution assistants, transport providers, and national agencies, emphasizing that continued donor support enables FEEL to serve vulnerable populations with “compassion, consistency, and care.”

  • R and R Proj steps into soca

    R and R Proj steps into soca

    Trinidadian-American musical collaborators Ron Metivier and Rhonda Rosales have embarked on an exciting new artistic journey with their inaugural soca release titled “Poison,” representing a significant evolution for their collaborative venture known as R and R Proj. Despite relocating to the United States in 2019, the duo maintains profound connections to their Trinidadian cultural heritage, which powerfully informs their creative expression.

    Rosales, whose musical journey began at age five under the mentorship of her grandmother and uncle Anderson Rosales of G Sharp and Friends, brings extensive performance experience to the partnership. Her credentials include a 20-year tenure with parang ensemble Los Alumnos de San Juan, finalist status on Scouting for Talent, membership in Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO), and performances at Kaiso House calypso tent (now D’Kaiso Dynasty). She has also served as lead vocalist for parang group Fuego Caribeño and performed internationally as a cultural ambassador alongside legendary artists including the late calypsonian Hawthorn “King Wellington” Quashie.

    Metivier complements this vocal excellence with multi-instrumental mastery, specializing in cuatro, guitar, and bass while skillfully blending traditional Caribbean sounds with contemporary influences. His musical development began at age 13, earning early recognition through the Junior National Parang Association before becoming the youngest cuatro player in renowned band Salsa Picante under maestro Robert Munro’s guidance. His professional experience includes extensive performances across the Caribbean, North America, and Europe, plus directing and arranging for numerous cultural ensembles.

    The collaborators describe “Poison” as an organic development born from their shared musical passion and creative synergy. While both artists have established reputations in parang, soca parang, and calypso genres, this release marks their deliberate entry into mainstream soca music. Metivier explains their motivation: “With our roots in the calypso tent and as proud Trinidadians, we wanted to make a strong contribution to the soca kingdom,” noting how the single captures Carnival’s passion, rhythm, and collective spirit.

    Musically, “Poison” represents a fusion of styles shaped by Metivier’s instrumental versatility and Rosales’ commanding vocal presence. The recording benefited from Samuel Jack’s (Jhaqkmix) production expertise at New York’s Maddagain Production Studio, owned by Roger “Patch” Joseph. Despite its international production, the track maintains authentic Trinidadian roots according to the artists.

    The duo’s collaborative dynamic leverages years of shared performance experience. Metivier describes their partnership as “a blend of voice and vision” where Rosales’ powerhouse vocals provide emotion and energy while his musical direction shapes sound and arrangement. This intimate creative exchange differs from his experience directing full bands, allowing constant idea exchange and co-creation.

    For Rosales, the project represents both artistic growth and personal renewal: “Having spent years in parang and calypso, Poison feels like a fresh chapter for me. It’s a chance to grow as an artiste, try something new and honour my roots.” Early audience responses have been enthusiastically positive, with fans and fellow artists connecting with the track’s energy and vibe.

    An animated music video is currently available on YouTube, with additional visual content planned for forthcoming release. The artists confirm this release merely begins their creative journey, promising more original music that blends genres, experiments with rhythms, and celebrates Caribbean cultural richness while honoring musical traditions. Their vision aims to inspire regional creativity and reach global audiences through evolutionary musical exploration.

  • NACC hosts semifinal of Young Kings

    NACC hosts semifinal of Young Kings

    In a landmark development for Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival season, the National Action Cultural Committee (NACC) has unveiled 25 semifinalists for the prestigious 2026 Young Kings Calypso Monarch competition. This year marks the inaugural introduction of a semifinal round, a structural enhancement prompted by overwhelming participation that saw over 90 entrants during preliminary auditions.

    NACC chairman Embau Moheni confirmed the historic expansion, emphasizing that the semifinal format is intended as a permanent fixture rather than a temporary measure. The selection process spanned multiple venues across the nation, with auditions conducted in Tobago on December 13, San Fernando on December 14, Republic Bank Exodus Pan Theatre on December 20, and Port of Spain’s Queen’s Park Savannah on December 21.

    Moheni expressed particular enthusiasm about both the quantity and quality of this year’s submissions, noting exceptional artistic standards that signal positive evolution for the calypso art form. While remaining cautious about discussing specific sponsorship arrangements and prize money, he indicated that negotiations were ongoing despite historical challenges in this area.

    Among the notable semifinalists are defending champion Anthony ‘Squeezy Rankin’ La Fleur, whose 2025 victory came with the crowd favorite ‘Justice’, and last year’s runner-up Kyle ‘KC’ Cowie, who returns with his composition ‘Wah We Fighting For’. The semifinal roster showcases diverse thematic approaches, from Oscar Benjamin’s technologically-themed ‘AI Versus Man’ to Sheldon Bullen and Nyol Manswell’s peace-oriented entries ‘A Call for Peace’ and ‘My Prayer for Peace’ respectively.

    The competitive journey continues with a position draw scheduled for January 5 at the VIP Lounge of Queen’s Park Savannah Grand Stand, leading to the semifinal performances on January 18 at John Cupid Carnival Village. This expansion reflects both growing interest in traditional calypso music and the NACC’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent within Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural landscape.

  • Digicel/Digicel Foundation invest $1.7 mil to spread holiday cheer

    Digicel/Digicel Foundation invest $1.7 mil to spread holiday cheer

    Digicel and its philanthropic arm, Digicel Foundation, have demonstrated significant corporate citizenship through a combined investment of $1.7 million in community enhancement programs during the recent holiday season. This substantial financial commitment was channeled through two distinct initiatives: the Christmas Runs on Real Connections campaign and the Extraordinary Projects Impacting Communities (EPIC) programme.

    The Christmas campaign, allocated $700,000, focused on creating festive engagement through customer appreciation activities. A highlight of this initiative was the mobile Community Pop-Up Caravan that traversed markets and major thoroughfares nationwide. Accompanied by Santa Claus and festive assistants, the caravan distributed various gifts including grocery items and Christmas hams, creating spontaneous moments of joy for residents across both Trinidad and Tobago.

    Simultaneously, the Foundation reinforced its dedication to sustainable social development through its EPIC programme with a $1 million investment. This strategic funding initiative specifically targets the non-profit sector, providing substantial grants to organizations driving community-based projects. In early December, the foundation distributed ten grants of $100,000 each to selected NGOs nationwide. These funds are specifically earmarked for projects that promote sustainable development and create lasting positive impact in communities.

    The comprehensive investment strategy reflects Digicel’s core philosophy that seasonal celebrations should transcend mere festivity to generate tangible, meaningful differences in people’s lives. Both programs were specifically designed to foster genuine human connections while supporting broader national development objectives, according to the company’s December 31st media release.

  • Port of Spain businessman first murder for 2026

    Port of Spain businessman first murder for 2026

    The new year in Trinidad and Tobago commenced with tragedy as Ricardo “Fish” Taylor, a local shop proprietor, became the nation’s inaugural homicide victim on January 1st. The shooting occurred in broad daylight at the intersection of George and Prince Streets in Port of Spain, marking a violent start to 2026.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate Taylor was socializing with companions approximately at 1:30 pm when he briefly visited his commercial establishment to purchase beverages. Surveillance evidence reveals a masked assailant approaching unexpectedly and discharging three rounds at close range before fleeing the scene. Emergency medical personnel pronounced Taylor deceased at the location.

    Law enforcement personnel conducted forensic investigations while grieving family members and curious onlookers observed the proceedings. In a particularly poignant detail, currency for the intended beverage purchase slipped from the victim’s hand during evidence collection, scattering across the pavement near his remains.

    Community members expressed profound shock regarding the incident. An anonymous bystander recounted: “I initially mistook the gunfire for festive fireworks before realizing the horrifying truth.” Another resident disclosed an ominous prelude to the shooting – moments before the attack, an individual had jokingly accused Taylor of collaborating with law enforcement through surveillance monitoring.

    Lennox Smith, political leader of the Love party and eyewitness to the events, revealed Taylor had been preparing culinary offerings for a New Year’s gathering. Smith emphasized the victim’s clean legal record and advocated for non-violent conflict resolution, stating: “Had there been any disputes, mediation could have prevented this tragedy. We recently distributed holiday hampers to community families, making this violence particularly senseless.”
    This incident occurs against a backdrop of improving security statistics, with official reports indicating 369 homicides throughout 2025 – representing a 43% reduction compared to previous annual figures.

  • Rreecey wants to create riddim

    Rreecey wants to create riddim

    Trinidadian-American artist Chereece ‘Rreecey’ Bernard, currently residing in New York City, has unveiled an ambitious musical trilogy for Carnival 2026, showcasing her evolution from calypso roots to contemporary soca expression. The 36-year-old singer-songwriter’s latest single ‘At Last,’ released November 17, captures the essence of Carnival’s liberating spirit, encouraging listeners to cast aside stress and negative energy during the festive season.

    Rreecey’s musical journey, which began in primary school singing calypso, has expanded to include multiple genres while maintaining her Caribbean foundations. Her October release ‘Fever,’ penned by acclaimed songwriter Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop, demonstrates her collaborative approach to music creation. A third upcoming collaboration with Devon ‘Dev’ Harris completes her 2026 Carnival trilogy.

    The artist credits her musical development to influences including the late calypso legend Sandra ‘Singing Sandra’ Des Vignes and contemporary collaborator Eggy Dan. Despite the significant financial investment required to produce new music annually, Rreecey remains undeterred, having built a diverse discography that includes tracks like ‘Afrowhine,’ ‘Meh Head Bad,’ and ‘Pong It’ in recent years.

    Looking beyond Carnival, Rreecey plans to explore reggae and dancehall genres while developing an all-female riddim project. Her primary aspiration for 2026 remains connecting with broader Trinidadian audiences and providing uplifting musical experiences during challenging times.

  • ‘Maggotty Island’ moves JPS to ‘the last mile’

    ‘Maggotty Island’ moves JPS to ‘the last mile’

    In a remarkable display of engineering ingenuity, the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has implemented an innovative solution to restore electricity to storm-ravaged sections of St. Elizabeth following the devastation wrought by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa on October 28th.

    The breakthrough centers around the strategic utilization of the Maggotty Hydroelectric Power Plant, one of JPS’s renewable energy facilities. Traditionally, severe damage to transmission infrastructure would prevent power generated at such plants from reaching consumers. However, JPS technicians conceptualized and developed a pioneering approach that enables electricity from the hydro plant to be fed directly into isolated segments of the distribution network.

    This isolated system, dubbed ‘The Maggotty Island,’ has successfully energized approximately 2,000 customers who would otherwise have faced months without electricity while crews rebuild severely damaged transmission lines traversing challenging mountainous terrain.

    JPS President and CEO Hugh Grant emphasized the unprecedented nature of the challenge: “The damage caused by Hurricane Melissa required a different way of thinking. The Maggotty Island exemplifies our team’s ingenuity and determination to find solutions under the most difficult circumstances. By creating this islanded system, we’ve been able to energize communities using renewable power despite the complete unavailability of connecting transmission lines.”

    Grant highlighted that this innovation has been instrumental in restoring power to 90% of JPS customers, a milestone achievement combining multiple strategic elements. These included proactive deployment of North American line workers before the hurricane made landfall, support from Caribbean utility partners, and procurement of specialized equipment.

    Unlike intermittent solar and wind systems, the Maggotty Plant represents what Grant termed “firm renewable” power, generating consistent electricity using the Maggotty River with a capacity of up to 12 megawatts. The system now powers critical infrastructure including the National Water Commission pump, National Irrigation Commission pump, and telecommunication sites, alongside residential customers.

    The Maggotty Island follows another innovative restoration initiative—the Emergency Mobile Power Generation Unit currently supplying nearly 1,000 customers in Treasure Beach. Both solutions form part of a comprehensive restoration and resilience strategy while permanent repairs continue.

    Despite significant progress, Grant cautioned that the final phase of restoration will be particularly challenging: “We are now at the most difficult stage. It will take more than 10 times the effort to get power to 10 times fewer customers.”

    In parallel, Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced additional equipment and linemen scheduled to arrive to accelerate restoration efforts, assuring residents that most communities without power should see significant improvements within weeks through a structured approach prioritizing main towns, thoroughfares, and then remote areas.

  • ATL Autobahn shines light on customers

    ATL Autobahn shines light on customers

    ATL Autobahn, the authorized Jamaican dealer for BMW vehicles, hosted an exclusive year-end celebration dubbed ‘LUMINOUS’ on December 20, 2025. The premium gathering took place at Bridget Sandals on Hope Road in St. Andrew, serving as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the brand’s dedicated customer base.

    Uche McLean, Head of Business at ATL Autobahn, emphasized the event’s significance in recognizing remarkable brand loyalty. “Having represented multiple automotive brands in Jamaica, I’ve never witnessed such profound devotion. BMW owners exhibit unparalleled allegiance to the marque,” McLean stated in discussions with Jamaica Observer’s Auto magazine. The executive, who assumed his role approximately one year ago, described the event as strategically aligned with BMW’s premium positioning.

    Guests enjoyed sophisticated entertainment, gourmet catering, and premium beverages while exploring Bridget Sandals’ luxury footwear collections. The venue featured several prominent BMW models, creating an immersive brand experience.

    Despite operational challenges following Hurricane Melissa’s recent impact, McLean confirmed BMW’s sustained market dominance as Jamaica’s leading premium automotive brand. The storm primarily affected western regions of the island, with the Montego Bay showroom escaping significant damage. The company implemented comprehensive support measures for affected customers and staff during recovery periods.

    Sales projections remain strong, with 2025 volumes expected to match previous year’s performance—a notable achievement given hurricane-related disruptions. The BMW X4 and X3 models are engaged in a tight sales competition, though McLean anticipates the X3 will ultimately surpass the X4 by year’s end.

    The BMW X4 Sports Activity Vehicle, having concluded production in November as part of the brand’s electrification strategy, will return as a fully electric model in upcoming months. McLean outlined plans to address this transition through the X3 and its forthcoming variants.

    Looking toward 2026, BMW Jamaica prepares for the introduction of the all-electric iX3 featuring the innovative Neue Klasse platform, expected to arrive in mid-2026, signaling the brand’s continued commitment to technological advancement and sustainable mobility.

  • Anguish & anger

    Anguish & anger

    A profound tragedy has struck the community of Brown’s Lane in Granville, St James, Jamaica, triggering widespread outrage and demands for accountability. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of New Year’s Day, resulted in the death of four-year-old Romain Bowman and two adult males, Kevon Martinez and another unidentified man, with a 68-year-old woman also sustaining injuries.

    According to eyewitness accounts from residents, a joint police and military team conducted an operation in response to reports of explosions and gunfire in the area. Nambia McFarlane, Romain’s mother, provided a harrowing testimony, stating that her son was asleep in bed when the shooting commenced. She recounted screaming warnings that there was a child in the house, only to be met with profanity and orders to stay inside from security personnel. McFarlane insists there were no gunmen present in her home, contradicting the official rationale for the operation.

    The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) issued an official statement extending “sincere condolence” to the family and expressing “deep regret” for the loss of young life. The JCF confirmed that investigations are ongoing, being conducted by both internal and independent oversight bodies to thoroughly examine the circumstances.

    The community’s grief swiftly transformed into organized protest. Residents blocked roads with old furniture and appliances, waving placards and demanding justice. Clarissa Anderson, another resident, claimed a bullet grazed her head as she slept, further fueling allegations of reckless conduct by the security forces.

    Deputy Superintendent of Police Peter Salkey addressed the media, confirming the seizure of an AK-47 rifle during the operation and promising transparency in the ongoing probe. While commiserating with the families, he stressed the necessity of police activities to ensure public safety.

    Councillor Michael Troupe has called for the immediate removal of all involved security personnel from front-line duty pending investigation, emphasizing the profound injustice of a child being killed in his own bed. The incident has raised serious questions about operational protocols, the use of lethal force in civilian areas, and the balance between public safety and the protection of innocent lives.