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  • PM: ABLP Ham and Turkey Distribution to Begin This Week

    PM: ABLP Ham and Turkey Distribution to Begin This Week

    The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has officially commenced its annual Christmas outreach initiatives, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne announcing the rollout of holiday food distributions and community celebrations. During his appearance on the Browne and Browne show broadcast by Pointe FM, the Prime Minister confirmed that the longstanding tradition of distributing hams and turkeys to residents would begin this week, with completion expected by midweek.

    Browne emphasized that this charitable program represents a deep-rooted ABLP tradition maintained consistently for decades, including periods when the party served in opposition. He characterized the initiative as an integral component of the party’s ongoing commitment to community engagement during the festive season.

    In addition to the food distribution program, the Prime Minister disclosed that the ABLP will host a series of Christmas parties specifically designed for children and elderly constituents. These events will commence this week and extend into the following week, with celebrations scheduled across multiple constituencies as part of the party’s comprehensive holiday activities.

    The ABLP’s Christmas programs have become an institutionalized aspect of the political landscape in Antigua and Barbuda, reflecting the party’s sustained approach to maintaining community connections through seasonal outreach efforts that coincide with Christmas celebrations annually.

  • U13 cricket competition lays foundation for future success

    U13 cricket competition lays foundation for future success

    Saint Lucia’s cricket landscape witnessed a transformative moment as the inaugural Under-13 Grassroots Tournament concluded triumphantly in December 2025. The eight-week championship, powered by the Laborie Cooperative Credit Union, culminated with Soufrière claiming victory against Babonneau in a spirited final showdown at Vieux Fort.

    The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) heralded the event as an unprecedented success in youth sports development. SLNCA President Wayne Auguste expressed profound satisfaction, noting: ‘The rapid skill evolution and deepened game understanding among these young athletes within such a brief timeframe has been extraordinary. Their progress validates our strategic investment in cricket’s future.’

    A remarkable tournament hallmark was cricket’s dramatic expansion into non-traditional regions. Communities like Laborie participated with exceptional enthusiasm, signaling the sport’s growing appeal beyond historical strongholds. Auguste emphasized the importance of nationwide outreach, stating: ‘Our next cricket superstar could emerge from any corner of Saint Lucia. Witnessing a female coach leading the Laborie team was particularly inspiring, and we encourage more women to embrace coaching roles.’

    This tournament strategically bridges the Republic Bank Five for Fun program (targeting primary school children) and the Sandals Under-19 district competition. The association’s visionary roadmap includes introducing a hardball program featuring age-appropriate 4¾-ounce balls and professional equipment including scaled bats, protective gear, and full kits to mirror international standards.

    Further expansion plans reveal an upcoming Under-10 category with modified rules to accommodate younger participants, recognizing that earlier engagement significantly enhances player development.

    Championship coach Dalius Monrose praised the tournament’s impact: ‘This initiative was long overdue. Our players demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the competition, evolving from beginners to knowledgeable cricketers who understand game strategy and execution.’ Monrose advocated for dedicated cricket facilities in Soufrière to sustain the sport’s momentum.

    Auguste concluded by acknowledging the Laborie Credit Union’s pivotal role, describing them as ‘ideal partners aligned with human resource development through sports investment.’ The tournament’s resounding success establishes a robust foundation for cricket’s continued expansion across Saint Lucian communities.

  • Spanish Town Police upset Waterhouse FC to win first JPL game

    Spanish Town Police upset Waterhouse FC to win first JPL game

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a remarkable turnaround of fortunes, Spanish Town Police FC secured their inaugural Jamaica Premier League victory on Monday with a dramatic 2-1 triumph against former champions Waterhouse FC. The match, held at the newly renovated Anthony Spaulding Complex, marked a historic breakthrough for the team after enduring eleven consecutive winless matches this season.

    The victory came as a particularly sweet redemption for Spanish Town Police FC, who had suffered devastating back-to-back losses conceding fifteen goals prior to this match. Despite being last season’s JFF Championships winners, the team had struggled immensely in their Premier League campaign until this breakthrough performance.

    Diamond Clarke broke the deadlock in the 74th minute with an extraordinary long-range strike from outside the penalty area, expertly placing the ball beyond goalkeeper Akeem Bernard into the far corner. Waterhouse FC responded with Colorado Murray’s equalizer in the 85th minute, showcasing technical precision with a left-footed finish inside the box. However, Jordan Elliston delivered the decisive blow during added time, capitalizing on a rapid counterattack to secure the historic victory from close range.

    In the evening’s second fixture, Montego Bay United reclaimed the league leadership with a 1-0 away victory against Arnett Gardens, courtesy of Okeemo Jones’ 81st-minute goal. This result propelled Montego Bay United to 26 points, establishing a two-point advantage over second-place Portmore United in the tightly contested standings.

    Despite their monumental victory, Spanish Town Police FC remain at the bottom of the table with five points, while Waterhouse FC’s struggles continue with their third consecutive defeat and sixth straight winless match, leaving them in ninth position.

  • Lukie D’s Missing You earns platinum certification in New Zealand

    Lukie D’s Missing You earns platinum certification in New Zealand

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Reggae and dancehall artist Lukie D has revealed that his 2005 single ‘Missing You Like Crazy’ has recently been certified platinum in New Zealand, marking an extraordinary milestone two decades after its initial release. The certification was officially granted by Recorded Music NZ last Friday, recognizing the track’s achievement of sales and streaming equivalents surpassing 30,000 units.

    In an exclusive interview with Observer Online, the LUST collective member born Michael Kennedy emphasized the importance of artistic integrity in music production. ‘I never anticipated this song would achieve hit status when recording it back in 2005. Twenty years later, this accomplishment reinforces that artists must consistently deliver their utmost excellence when creating records,’ Lukie D reflected.

    The platinum-certified track forms part of the influential ‘Old Skool’ riddim produced by Fi Wi Music Jamaica and fellow artist Courtney John. This foundational rhythm also spawned several other notable compositions including Rude’s ‘Float Away,’ Mr. Vegas’s ‘Do You Know,’ Courtney John’s ‘When You Say,’ and Jovi Rockwell’s ‘It’s All About Love.’

    Lukie D elaborated on the song’s creative origins, explaining: ‘The inspiration emerged from recognizing that most people experience the emotional void described in the lyrics. Translating this universal sentiment into musical expression felt like a natural artistic imperative.’

    The track’s international success facilitated significant professional opportunities, particularly across the South Pacific region where the song gained substantial traction. ‘This achievement enabled extensive touring throughout the South Pacific and collaborations with premier artists from that territory. Receiving such recognition after dedicated effort generates tremendous satisfaction,’ the artist disclosed.

    Having developed his artistic craft through Jamaica’s vibrant sound system culture, Lukie D has cultivated an impressive discography including previous hits like ‘Centre of Attraction,’ ‘Don’t Deny Me’ featuring Lt Stitchie, and Downsound Records-produced ‘Used to Be My Girl’ which charted successfully in 2006.

  • WATCH: Late Corporal Bibzie Foster hailed for 28 years of service to JCF

    WATCH: Late Corporal Bibzie Foster hailed for 28 years of service to JCF

    The Jamaican law enforcement community gathered in solemn tribute on December 14th to honor the life and service of Police Corporal Bibzie Foster, whose funeral service was held at the Exchange Adventist Church in Ocho Rios, St. Ann. The ceremony brought together colleagues and superiors to commemorate Corporal Foster’s remarkable 28-year career with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

    Senior Superintendent Eron Samuels, Commanding Officer of the St. James Division, delivered a heartfelt eulogy portraying Foster as an exceptional individual who embodied multifaceted excellence. “Bibzie represented the essence of a well-rounded, grounded, and purpose-driven woman,” Samuels reflected. “Her passions extended beyond her police duties to include musical expression, dance, and culinary arts—talents she channeled into establishing her own small restaurant, demonstrating both her entrepreneurial spirit and genuine joy in serving others.”

    Corporal Foster’s distinguished service timeline began with her enlistment on January 27, 1997, and spanned nearly three decades exclusively within the St. James Division. Her exemplary dedication to duty, combined with outstanding professionalism and leadership qualities, earned her promotion to the rank of corporal on December 1, 2008. Throughout her career, Foster received four formal commendations and was ultimately awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor for long service and good conduct on May 21, 2021.

    The memorial service also featured remarks from Sergeant Lloyd Duncan, General Secretary of the Jamaica Police Federation, who offered tribute on behalf of the JCF’s rank-and-file members. Corporal Foster was discovered deceased at her residence in Brooks Close, Granville, St. James, in early October, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and service to her community.

  • Give Back Jamaica provides relief efforts in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland

    Give Back Jamaica provides relief efforts in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path through southwestern Jamaica, a coalition of humanitarian organizations has mobilized to deliver critical aid to devastated communities across St Elizabeth and Westmoreland parishes. Give Back Jamaica, a prominent charitable organization, has spearheaded these relief efforts through strategic partnerships with multiple non-governmental entities.

    Under the leadership of President Hopeton Brown, Give Back Jamaica has coordinated with the South Wales Jamaica Society, Friends of Porus, Xana Romeo Foundation, and Anderson-Cover Foundation to create a comprehensive support network. This collaborative approach has enabled the pooling of resources, expertise, and volunteer manpower to reach even the most isolated communities affected by the natural disaster.

    Brown emphasized the organization’s core mission of community service, noting that the hurricane’s devastation personally impacted him and his team. ‘Direct interaction with disaster survivors provided firsthand insight into their suffering,’ Brown shared with Observer Online. ‘Helping even one family offered a sense of accomplishment.’

    The relief initiative has delivered essential care packages containing food supplies, hygiene products, and basic necessities to numerous families. Particular attention has been given to Jamaica’s baseball community, with the St Elizabeth Baseball team in Myersville and the Discovery Bay Dolphins teams across Woodstown, Farm Town, and Bethel Town receiving targeted support.

    The humanitarian effort extended to historically significant communities including the Maroons of Accompong, alongside families in northwest St Elizabeth, Brompton, Giddy Hall, and Middle Quarters. Westmoreland parishes including Whitehouse, Ferris Cross, and Darliston have similarly benefited from the relief distribution.

    Volunteers and community leaders have undertaken extensive travel, often spending hours navigating damaged infrastructure to ensure aid reaches those most in need. The recovery process remains ongoing, with Give Back Jamaica and its partners committed to long-term support including home reconstruction, psychological counseling, and educational resources for children.

    Brown concluded: ‘The focus remains on empowering communities and ensuring that families can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Every act of kindness, every care package, and every moment of celebration is a step toward healing and renewal.’

  • Mona, KC, Charlie and St Catherine advance to Walker Cup semis

    Mona, KC, Charlie and St Catherine advance to Walker Cup semis

    The ISSA Walker Cup quarterfinals concluded on Monday with thrilling matches that set the stage for an electrifying semifinal round. Defending champions Mona High secured their progression despite extraordinary adversity, playing the majority of their match against Hydel High with only ten men after Devrahj Singh received a first-half red card for dangerous play.

    Mona’s victory (3-2) was characterized by resilience and strategic execution. Joenaldo Payne initiated the scoring in the fourth minute with a precise header from a corner kick. Despite being reduced to ten players, Mona demonstrated remarkable composure. Substitute Franklyn Mitchum reclaimed the lead in the 71st minute, followed swiftly by Sean Leighton’s clinical finish in the 74th minute, establishing a 3-1 advantage. Hydel mounted a late surge with Ackeem Ewan’s 77th-minute goal, creating tense final moments, but Mona’s defense held firm to secure advancement.

    In parallel action, nine-time champions Kingston College (KC) edged past fierce rivals Calabar High 2-1 in a match filled with historical significance. This victory carried added meaning as it provided a measure of redemption following Calabar’s elimination of KC from the Manning Cup competition. Defender Rohan Brown headed KC into an early lead in the eighth minute, though Calabar’s Payton Larmond equalized just six minutes later. The decisive moment came in the 16th minute when Shareef Ricketts secured the winning goal, maintaining KC’s pursuit of a record-extending tenth Walker Cup title.

    Other quarterfinal results saw St Catherine High deliver an offensive masterclass in their 5-2 victory over Vauxhall High, while Charlie Smith High demonstrated overwhelming dominance with a 6-1 triumph against Tivoli High.

    The semifinal pairings are now confirmed: Mona High will face Charlie Smith High on Wednesday at 2:00 PM, followed by Kingston College versus St Catherine High at 4:15 PM. Both matches will be hosted at Jamaica College’s Ashenheim Stadium, promising high-stakes football as these teams compete for a place in the prestigious Walker Cup final.

  • Westmoreland residents urged to treat all non-bottled water

    Westmoreland residents urged to treat all non-bottled water

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Westmoreland’s health authorities have escalated public health advisories concerning water safety. Dr. Marcia Graham, the parish’s Medical Officer of Health, has issued a critical directive for residents to consider all non-bottled water as potentially hazardous for consumption.

    Addressing the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation at a recent monthly assembly, Dr. Graham highlighted the severe degradation of local infrastructure and the unpredictable quality of water supplies, which have collectively elevated the threat of waterborne diseases. She emphasized that the current water conditions fall below safety standards, necessitating extreme caution. “We must treat all water sources as unsafe unless it is sealed bottled water that remains unopened,” she stated.

    The health expert detailed several approved purification techniques, identifying vigorous boiling as a paramount method. She instructed, “Achieve a rolling boil and maintain it for at least one full minute to ensure the water becomes safe for human use.” Additionally, Dr. Graham endorsed the application of bleach or chlorine tablets, underlining the necessity of precise measurement and a mandatory thirty-minute settling period for the chemicals to effectively neutralize pathogens.

    Beyond contaminated water risks, Dr. Graham raised alarms over a surge in leptospirosis exposure, a bacterial infection exacerbated by displaced wildlife and polluted water bodies. She cautioned that even minimal contact through small cuts or abrasions could lead to severe systemic illness. “Exposure to tainted water can rapidly result in renal failure, liver dysfunction, and other life-threatening conditions,” she warned, noting the parish has already documented fatal outcomes connected to post-hurricane diseases.

  • Venezuela cancels all energy deals with Trinidad and Tobago

    Venezuela cancels all energy deals with Trinidad and Tobago

    In a significant escalation of regional tensions, the Venezuelan government has announced the immediate termination of all energy contracts and negotiations with Trinidad and Tobago. The decisive action comes as a direct response to Caracas’ allegations that Port of Spain played a collaborative role in last week’s United States seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker.

    Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, through an official statement on her Instagram platform, characterized the tanker interception as an act of piracy and a severe violation of international maritime law. The statement explicitly accused Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of maintaining a hostile agenda against Venezuela since assuming office, including the alleged installation of US military radar systems to monitor Venezuelan vessels.

    Rodríguez declared that President Nicolás Maduro’s administration views these developments as transforming Trinidad and Tobago into what she described as a US military outpost for attacks against Venezuela. Consequently, Venezuela has formally denounced the Energy Cooperation Framework Agreement previously established with its Caribbean neighbor.

    The Venezuelan government maintains full knowledge of Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in what it terms the theft of Venezuelan oil resources. The statement emphasized that Venezuela will not tolerate colonial entities or their vassals threatening the nation’s sovereignty and developmental rights.

    Meanwhile, the Guyanese maritime authorities have clarified that the seized vessel, identified as Motor Tanker SKIPPER, was improperly flying the Guyana flag without proper registration. This development occurs alongside increased US military presence in the Caribbean region, ostensibly targeting narcotics trafficking but viewed by regional analysts as part of broader geopolitical pressures on the Maduro government.

    The Trump administration has previously designated Maduro as a narco-terrorist and key figure in the Cartel of the Suns, with OFAC sanctions already in effect. US military operations in Caribbean and Pacific waters have reportedly resulted in numerous fatalities among alleged drug traffickers.

  • JCPD urges accessible rebuilding in aftermath of hurricane melissa

    JCPD urges accessible rebuilding in aftermath of hurricane melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) is championing a transformative approach to reconstruction that prioritizes universal accessibility. Executive Director Dr. Christine Hendricks is calling on all rebuilding stakeholders to incorporate universal design principles, ensuring that rebuilt infrastructure serves all citizens, including those with disabilities.

    Dr. Hendricks emphasizes that the widespread destruction presents a unique opportunity to rebuild according to modern accessibility standards outlined in Jamaica’s building code. The JCPD provides detailed guidelines on its website, including specifications for proper ramp construction, doorway width requirements, and accessible bathroom design. These measures aim to eliminate physical barriers that traditionally exclude persons with disabilities from public spaces.

    The council has identified problematic practices such as placing utility poles and plant boxes in the middle of sidewalks, which effectively block mobility for wheelchair users and others with physical disabilities. Dr. Hendricks notes that such exclusionary design could constitute discrimination under Jamaican law, with potential complaints escalating to the Disabilities Rights Tribunal if unresolved through initial interventions.

    Beyond advocacy, the JCPD has launched extensive field operations across the most affected parishes, including Westmoreland, Hanover, Trelawny, St. James, and portions of St. Ann, Manchester and Clarendon. Since October 31, assessment teams have delivered care packages and documented extensive losses in communities like Lititz and Junction, where entire farms were destroyed and homes were flooded or lost roofs.

    The council is compiling comprehensive damage assessments, particularly focusing on persons with disabilities who lost homes and small businesses, to facilitate support through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The JCPD is also guiding eligible individuals through the National Housing Trust’s disaster relief application process.

    Collaborating with disability organizations including the Jamaica Society for the Blind, Jamaican Association on Intellectual Disabilities, and Caribbean Christian Centre for the Deaf, the council is working to reach approximately 675 deaf individuals affected by the hurricane through partner organization Ready to Sign.

    International support has been crucial to recovery efforts. UNICEF has committed $32 million to provide care packages and digital vouchers for 1,500 children with disabilities, while UNESCO is assisting with technical expertise to develop Jamaica’s first inclusive disaster risk management framework. Additional support comes from the Australian government (offering grants up to US$65,000), the Canadian High Commission, and various diaspora groups sending relief supplies.

    With verified reports of over 15,000 persons with disabilities residing in the hardest-hit parishes, the JCPD acknowledges the challenge of reaching all affected individuals. The council encourages relief workers to report encounters with persons with disabilities needing assistance via WhatsApp at 876‑447‑0444 or 876‑299‑7393, or by calling 876‑968‑8373.