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  • BATTLE TO THE SUMMIT

    BATTLE TO THE SUMMIT

    Jamaican football stalwart Konya Plummer is poised to make history once again as she joins the Reggae Girlz in their qualifying campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The team begins its Group B Concacaf qualifiers against Dominica this Saturday at St. Lucia’s Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, with further matches against Guyana, Nicaragua, and Antigua and Barbuda.

    Plummer’s path back to professional football exemplifies extraordinary resilience. The 28-year-old defender, who captained Jamaica to their first World Cup appearance in 2019, faced a career crossroads upon discovering her pregnancy. During a recent interview with the Jamaica Football Federation, Plummer revealed her initial struggles: “There were several times I wanted to quit football. The news was unexpected, and I thought I was too young.”

    The athlete described the emotional turmoil of receiving offers from prominent European clubs while simultaneously learning about her pregnancy. “I thought, ‘This is the end of my career.’ I believed I would never reach such heights again,” she confessed.

    Her perspective transformed dramatically when Jamaica qualified for their second consecutive World Cup in 2023. “Learning about our qualification changed everything,” Plummer explained. “It ignited something within me—I knew I had to work toward returning.”

    Motherhood unveiled previously untapped reservoirs of strength for the athlete. “Having a son became my greatest motivation—it makes me push harder for everything in life,” Plummer stated. Despite the challenges of an eight-hour time difference separating her from her child, who remains with family in Jamaica, her determination never faltered.

    Beyond athletics, Plummer has channeled her experiences into philanthropic endeavors. She established the Konya Plummer Community Grant, an initiative born from spiritual reflection and a commitment to social upliftment. “This was God’s inspiration,” she noted. “I wanted to create opportunities for those without resources, just as coaches and mentors once supported me.”

    The charity represents Plummer’s dedication to leaving a legacy beyond sports. “Football might not last forever, but making a meaningful impact does. Giving back is about being part of something greater than oneself,” she affirmed.

    As the Reggae Girlz commence their qualifying journey, Plummer’s story stands as a powerful narrative of athletic excellence, maternal strength, and profound social consciousness.

  • Kia kindness

    Kia kindness

    In an innovative blend of corporate philanthropy and product introduction, Kia Jamaica unveiled its all-new Tasman pickup through a humanitarian mission at King’s Primary & Infant School in Westmoreland on November 22, 2025. The initiative, part of the ‘Kia Cares Hurricane Melissa Relief’ program, brought together approximately 55 company volunteers who joined forces with Sandals Foundation, Wisynco Group’s M-POWA brand, and Team Rubicon USA to assist in post-hurricane recovery efforts.

    The devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa had left the educational institution severely damaged, with classrooms filled with debris that threatened to disrupt academic activities—particularly for grade six students preparing for critical Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations. Serving 150 students from Longhill and surrounding communities, the school required immediate intervention to restore operational capacity.

    Kia’s leadership team emphasized the strategic decision to replace a traditional vehicle launch with community service. Allamish Creightney, Sales Manager for Kingston, explained: ‘Instead of allocating resources to a conventional marketing event, we chose to demonstrate our commitment to Jamaican communities by directly supporting recovery efforts. The Tasman’s first public appearance was thus dedicated to transporting volunteers and supplies to the affected school.’

    The Tasman pickup itself represents a significant milestone for the automaker—their first entry into the pickup truck market. Engineered with body-on-frame construction and a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine generating 210 horsepower, the vehicle boasts substantial towing (7,716 lbs) and payload (2,242 lbs) capabilities. Practical features include interior console tables, bed side storage, panoramic displays, and best-in-class rear seating space, with pricing starting at approximately $12 million Jamaican dollars.

    Kelly Nunes, Project Manager at Sandals Foundation, which has maintained a long-term partnership with the school including computer lab development, expressed profound appreciation: ‘We are super appreciative of all their help today. This collaborative effort was essential for restoring educational continuity.’

    Principal Marcia Tatham-Miller noted the significance of the intervention: ‘I am overwhelmed by the support. Thanks to this collective effort, we will be ready to accommodate our examination-bound students next week.’

    Kia Jamaica has indicated that this event marks the beginning of ongoing relief initiatives, with additional corporate social responsibility projects planned throughout the coming months.

  • COP30 again sounds climate alarm

    COP30 again sounds climate alarm

    BELEM, BRAZIL – The recently concluded COP30 United Nations Climate Summit has reignited global concerns about the accelerating pace of environmental degradation, with small island developing states (SIDS) including Trinidad and Tobago expressing particular alarm about climate impacts. Delegates from vulnerable nations highlighted the interconnected crises of ocean system disruption, biodiversity collapse, increasing natural disasters, and food insecurity that collectively threaten human welfare worldwide.

    Despite decades of international environmental conferences dating back to the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, global responses remain critically inadequate. Observers consistently identify insufficient funding and lack of political commitment as primary obstacles to implementing meaningful climate action.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s delegation, led by the Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, emphasized the necessity for coordinated action across all levels, with particular focus on climate financing mechanisms. The minister outlined national mitigation efforts including electric vehicle promotion, residential solar water heater installation, transition to green hydrogen energy, and implementation of a National Adaptation Plan.

    A compelling case was made for accelerated forest development as a cost-effective climate strategy. Forests serve as the planet’s primary terrestrial carbon sinks, working in tandem with oceanic systems to maintain atmospheric balance through carbon sequestration. Trinidad and Tobago maintains significant forest coverage spanning approximately 25% of its land area, providing critical ecosystem services including watershed protection, wildlife conservation, ecotourism opportunities, rural employment, and public health benefits.

    However, these vital ecosystems face persistent threats from unauthorized development, illegal squatting, and unregulated quarrying activities that have left thousands of hectares degraded and abandoned without restoration efforts.

    Global reforestation initiatives offer promising models for emulation, including Africa’s Great Green Wall project aiming to restore 100 million hectares across 11 nations, Brazil’s Amazon rainforest restoration efforts, and similar programs in Australia and India. Such investments in preventive conservation rather than costly recovery represent economically prudent pathways, with potential carbon credit revenues providing additional financial incentives for developed nations to support these initiatives.

    Collaboration between governmental forestry agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector stakeholders will prove essential to preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s environmental legacy for future generations.

  • Johann Layne shines with 3/33 in Windies warm-up match

    Johann Layne shines with 3/33 in Windies warm-up match

    Emerging Barbadian fast bowler Johann Layne delivered an impressive performance on the final day of West Indies’ two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln University. The 22-year-old paceman claimed three wickets for 33 runs, helping restrict the hosts to 264 all out in response to the visitors’ declaration at 346 for five.

    The practice encounter concluded in a predictable draw on November 27, but Layne’s post-tea bowling spell particularly stood out, likely earning approval from head coach Daren Sammy and bowling coach Ravi Rampaul. The New Zealand XI faced early trouble at 4-2 after just four overs, losing openers Scott Janett (1) and Jesse Frew (3) to experienced campaigners Kemar Roach (1-55) and Anderson Phillip (1-27).

    Layne broke a developing partnership when he dismissed Sam Cassidy for a brisk 28 off 26 deliveries with the score at 45-3. The home team recovered through a substantial 126-run stand between Muhammad Abbas (61) and Cam Paul (91), reaching 144-3 at the tea interval. Following the break, Layne’s double strike in quick succession removed both Abbas and wicketkeeper-batsman Marco Alpe (0), with both caught behind by Tevin Imlach.

    The middle-order collapse continued as Paul’s excellent knock ended at 91 when he offered a simple return catch to off-spinner Roston Chase (1-40). Left-arm spinners Kavem Hodge (2-32) and vice-captain Jomel Warrican (2-45) then combined to claim the final four wickets, bowling the New Zealand XI out 82 runs short of the Caribbean side’s total.

    Despite the encouraging performance, concerns emerged regarding allrounder Justin Greaves, who required assistance leaving the field after pulling up injured during his fourth over. The West Indies will begin their three-match Test series against New Zealand on November 1 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

  • PNM Tobago wants disclosure on US military presence in Tobago

    PNM Tobago wants disclosure on US military presence in Tobago

    Tobago’s political landscape has been rattled by escalating concerns over unexplained United States military activities at the ANR Robinson International Airport, prompting demands for full governmental transparency. The controversy emerged on November 26 when residents reported being awakened by the thunderous departure of a US military aircraft at approximately 5:53 AM, with the unexpected event also disturbing local wildlife.

    The situation intensified when Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Tobago Chief Secretary Farley Augustine provided conflicting accounts regarding the military presence. While the Prime Minister characterized the operations as mere ‘roadworks’ associated with the new airport development, Augustine initially claimed awareness only of a refueling stop by a US Air Force craft, expressing no knowledge of troop deployments.

    Further complicating matters, eyewitnesses reported spotting equipment resembling advanced radar systems typically utilized by the US Marine Corps, fueling additional speculation about the nature of the military activities. This discovery has raised particular concern given the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela in the region.

    The PNM Tobago Council, led by Minority Leader Kelvon Morris, has taken a firm stance against what they describe as secretive operations conducted without proper consultation or transparency. During a press conference held adjacent to the new airport terminal, Morris revealed he had been inundated with calls from concerned citizens demanding answers about potential military installations.

    Former Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis amplified these concerns, accusing both central government and Tobago House of Assembly leadership of engaging in clandestine activities that bypass proper democratic processes. Dennis emphasized the need for Tobagonians to unite in expressing their discomfort with the situation and demand greater accountability from their representatives.

    The emerging controversy occurs against the backdrop of upcoming THA elections, with the PNM Tobago Council preparing to challenge Augustine’s Tobago Peoples Party, adding political dimensions to the escalating transparency dispute.

  • Tearful PM at councillor’s funeral: ‘Romona, a daughter of my heart’

    Tearful PM at councillor’s funeral: ‘Romona, a daughter of my heart’

    In a deeply moving ceremony at Irwin Park, Siparia on Thursday, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar delivered an emotional eulogy at the funeral of murdered United National Congress councillor Romona Victor, describing the deceased as “a daughter of my heart.” The Prime Minister struggled to maintain composure during her address, pausing to wipe away tears and placing her hand over her heart as she remembered the 36-year-old public servant.

    The tragic circumstances of Victor’s death on November 23 cast a somber shadow over the proceedings. According to police reports, she was fatally beaten by her common-law husband, 45-year-old Rodney Ramsumair, who subsequently ingested poison. Their bodies were discovered in the bedroom of their Coora Branch Road residence in Siparia.

    Persad-Bissessar praised the bravery of Victor’s parents, Francis and Laura, for speaking openly about their daughter’s tragic passing while emphasizing that her life should not be defined by its final chapter. “Behind this councillor was a woman who faced private struggles while still showing up for others with smiles, hope, and love,” the Prime Minister stated.

    The funeral, held within walking distance of the Siparia Borough Corporation where Victor represented the interests of Siparia East/San Francique constituents, became a platform for addressing broader societal issues. The Prime Minister used the occasion to highlight the importance of support systems for those experiencing domestic violence, reaffirming her government’s commitment to strengthening crisis intervention mechanisms.

    Persad-Bissessar also reflected on Victor’s professional accomplishments, noting her recent appointment to the Heritage Petroleum board and her rise from modest beginnings in Syne Village, Penal. She recalled encouraging Victor to enter public life due to her sincerity and strong community connections. Victor is survived by her parents, siblings, and son Sheldon Zion, whom she frequently described as her greatest motivation. Following the service, she was laid to rest at the Siparia public cemetery.

  • PM: TT’s future now in laptops in bookbags

    PM: TT’s future now in laptops in bookbags

    In a significant advancement for digital education, Trinidad and Tobago has launched a comprehensive laptop distribution program for Form One secondary students, with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar declaring these devices fundamental to the nation’s future. The initiative, unveiled during a ceremony at Penal Secondary School on November 27, represents a substantial investment in the country’s educational infrastructure.

    Drawing parallels to former Prime Minister Dr. Eric Williams’ famous assertion that the nation’s future resided in students’ bookbags, Persad-Bissessar contemporized the vision by stating, ‘I say to you, the future of our country is in the laptops in the bookbags.’ She reflected on her early encounters with massive mainframe computers, expressing astonishment at technological evolution and emphasizing that these laptops serve as digital portals to global knowledge.

    The technological initiative, managed by the Education Ministry, involves the procurement of 18,000 laptops equipped with specialized accessories at an approximate total cost of $135 million TT dollars—approximately $7,500 per unit. Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath revealed that these devices incorporate artificial intelligence capabilities specifically designed for educational purposes. Initial deliveries have already brought 2,500 units, with an additional 8,500 expected imminently.

    Minister Dowlath characterized the program as a revival of the technological revolution initiated during Persad-Bissessar’s first administration (2010-2015), which he claimed experienced a decade-long interruption under the previous PNM government. The ceremony also featured demonstrations of the AI components, with ministry officials assuring stringent protocols restrict the technology exclusively to teaching Mathematics and English Language.

    Concurrently, the government is enhancing school infrastructure through Cabinet-approved improvements to Wi-Fi capabilities across primary and secondary institutions. In a related health initiative, the Prime Minister acknowledged Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe for advancing sugar reduction measures in school beverages, continuing efforts begun by his predecessor Terrence Deyalsingh.

  • PM happy with passage of stand-your-ground bill

    PM happy with passage of stand-your-ground bill

    In a decisive legislative move, Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Representatives has approved the Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill 2025, marking a significant escalation in the nation’s criminal justice policies. Following an extensive nine-hour parliamentary session, the government secured passage with 23 votes in favor, overcoming unified opposition from ten dissenting MPs.

    Spearheaded by Attorney General John Jeremie, the legislation establishes home invasion as a distinct criminal offense carrying severe consequences. Standard convictions now mandate penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment and fines reaching $500,000 TT dollars. The framework incorporates aggravated provisions that elevate punishments to 25 years incarceration and $750,000 fines for perpetrators identified as gang members, organized crime participants, or those committing offenses in the presence of children, seniors, or vulnerable individuals.

    A cornerstone of the legislation eliminates the duty to retreat for homeowners, explicitly authorizing residents to use or threaten force against intruders. The statute further recognizes justified deadly force when residents demonstrate honest belief in imminent threat of death, severe bodily harm, or sexual assault.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar celebrated the passage on social media platform X, asserting the legislation prioritizes law-abiding citizens’ rights while delivering an unequivocal message that residential violations will not be tolerated. The Prime Minister expressed disappointment that opposition members voted against what she characterized as critical public safety legislation.

    Attorney General Jeremie framed the bill as part of a comprehensive crime reduction strategy, citing alarming statistics showing homicides increased from 420 in 2015 to 624 in 2024, with serious crimes rising from 825 to nearly 1,000 per 100,000 residents. Defense Minister Wayne Sturge emphasized the psychological dimension during debates, stating the legislation aims to instill fear in criminals while empowering homeowners with enhanced self-defense rights.

    The bill now proceeds to the Senate for final legislative approval before becoming law.

  • Mixed fortunes for Carapichaima in Central intercol finals

    Mixed fortunes for Carapichaima in Central intercol finals

    In a dramatic turnaround of fortunes, Carapichaima East Secondary’s boys’ football team claimed the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) central zone intercol championship with a commanding 4-0 victory over Chaguanas North Secondary. The match, held at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on November 26, marked a stunning reversal for a team that had endured a winless premier division season, losing all 15 of their previous matches.

    The championship showdown saw Carapichaima East demonstrate remarkable resilience as they established a decisive 3-0 lead by halftime before adding a fourth goal in the second half. The scoring was distributed among four players: Mikhel Aberdeen, Damarion Boswell, Tarik Langton, and Zion Thompson, whose collective effort secured the comprehensive victory.

    This triumph sets the stage for a national intercol quarterfinal clash against east zone champions St Augustine Secondary on December 2. St Augustine earned their place in the next round with a dramatic victory over San Juan North Secondary at Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar.

    While the boys celebrated their championship, Carapichaima East’s girls’ team experienced disappointment in their concurrent intercol final. Holy Faith Convent Couva dominated the match with a decisive 3-0 victory, preventing Carapichaima from achieving a zonal double. Holy Faith now advances to face Five Rivers Secondary, the east zone winners, in the girls’ national intercol quarterfinals on December 1.

  • Red Force into Super50 Cup final with Pride

    Red Force into Super50 Cup final with Pride

    The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force delivered a commanding performance on November 27th at Queen’s Park Oval, St Clair, securing their place in the 2025/26 CG United Super50 Cup final with a decisive eight-wicket victory over the Leeward Islands Hurricanes. This triumph marks their fourth finals appearance in the past five seasons, setting up a championship clash against traditional rivals Barbados Pride on November 29th at Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

    The foundation for victory was laid by an exceptional bowling display from seam bowler Terrance Hinds and spinner Ricky Jaipaul, who claimed three wickets each to restrict the Hurricanes to a modest 214 runs in 49 overs. Hinds made early breakthroughs by dismissing Kofi James (8), Carlon Bowen-Tuckett (5), and clean bowling Mikyle Louis (13) within the first 39 deliveries, leaving the visitors reeling at 31-3.

    Despite resistance from Karima Gore (39) and a spirited 71-run knock from Jahmar Hamilton—who famously eliminated T&T from the 2019 semifinal—the Hurricanes’ innings never gained sustained momentum. The Red Force bowling attack maintained consistent pressure, with Joshua James, Jyd Goolie, and Abdul-Raheem Toppin contributing crucial wickets during the final overs.

    The chase became a showcase of batting prowess as Tion Webster shattered his tournament slump with a magnificent 83 runs from 117 deliveries. Partnering with returning West Indies player Amir Jangoo, Webster demonstrated exceptional form on his home ground, systematically dismantling the Leeward Islands’ bowling attack. Their 88-run partnership off 141 balls effectively decided the contest.

    Though Webster fell with victory in sight, Jangoo remained unbeaten on 72 from 85 balls, accompanied by Jyd Goolie’s rapid 23 not out from 23 deliveries. The Red Force achieved their target with 41 balls to spare, joining Barbados Pride with an unassailable 31 points in the standings.

    This final appearance renews one of the region’s most storied rivalries, marking the tenth championship meeting between the teams since the tournament’s inception in 1973. Red Force supporters now anticipate their team potentially securing a record-extending 15th overall title and their seventh victory against Barbados in regional 50-over finals.