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  • More than $5 billion paid out under ROOFS so far

    More than $5 billion paid out under ROOFS so far

    MONTEGO BAY, St James — Emotional scenes unfolded as Hurricane Melissa survivors received long-awaited reconstruction assistance through Jamaica’s innovative ROOFS initiative. The Restoration of Owner or Occupant Family Shelters program, administered by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, has now disbursed over half of its $10-billion budget directly to affected households across storm-ravaged communities.

    Juliet Howard, a resident of Paradise, Norwood, expressed profound gratitude after receiving her grant. Her home in St James North Western suffered severe damage during last October’s Category 5 hurricane, leaving her and her grandson in vulnerable conditions. “Right now them can jook mi in it from outside,” Howard remarked with bittersweet humor about her compromised dwelling.

    The relief program categorizes assistance into three tiers: $75,000 for minor damage, $200,000 for major damage, and $500,000 for severe structural impacts. Howard qualified for the maximum grant amount due to her home’s extensive destruction.

    Minister Pearnel Charles Jr revealed that St James residents alone will receive nearly $1 billion of the total allocation, benefiting 1,677 major damage cases, 293 minor damage cases, and 1,128 severe damage cases. The ministry has distributed $521,917,500 to date, surpassing the 50% milestone in disbursements.

    For Howard, the assistance represents more than material support—it marks emotional redemption. Eleven years after losing everything in a house fire, the hurricane struck during the same October anniversary period. “This storm took me back right on my anniversary,” she shared, making the government’s intervention particularly meaningful.

    The distribution event at the Western Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists auditorium saw hundreds of residents gathering for updates. Minister Charles announced that successful applicants would receive QR codes with instructions for accessing their grants immediately.

    Among other beneficiaries, Tangle River resident Selvin Samuels described living under makeshift zinc and canvas arrangements after complete home destruction. “Now with this, I can build back a little place,” he stated, embodying the resilience echoed throughout the community.

    Cambridge resident Joshua Walker expressed surprise and gratitude for the unexpected assistance, summarizing the collective sentiment: “None of us never expect this and it come.” The program represents one of Jamaica’s most significant post-disaster reconstruction efforts, directly addressing housing vulnerability through structured financial empowerment.

  • Soul Sundays makes moves

    Soul Sundays makes moves

    A Jamaican music event, Soul Sundays, has dramatically exceeded its creators’ expectations, evolving from a local liquor store promotion into a nationally celebrated phenomenon with international aspirations. Conceived by promoter Shane Buchanan and his brother as part of a weekend trilogy—alongside 90s Dancehall Fridays and a Saturday night experience—the Sunday concept was intentionally designed to be a soulful affair.

    The event’s trajectory has been described as ‘mind-blowing’ by its founders, with its growth accelerating significantly towards a pivotal 2026 expansion. A major turning point arrived with the acquisition of premium sponsorships from Appleton Estate, as title sponsor, and Campari. Buchanan emphasizes that such high-profile partnerships serve as powerful endorsements, attracting discerning patrons who associate quality brands with exceptional experiences.

    These strategic alliances provide substantial financial backing, enabling the organizers to enhance production value and craft increasingly memorable experiences. Buchanan confidently asserts that Soul Sundays now stands as Jamaica’s premier soul music event, crediting the sponsors for significantly elevating its prestige.

    Soul Sundays has carved a unique niche by attracting mature audiences and couples seeking authentic soul music that once dominated Jamaica’s nightlife. The event serves as a sanctuary for those who appreciate classic sounds, effectively reviving a nostalgic vibe that has become scarce in contemporary nightlife.

    The recent Valentine’s edition exemplified this atmosphere, featuring fireworks, rose distributions to female attendees, and an emphasis on celebrating love. Mark Telfer of J Wray & Nephew Limited explained that Appleton Estate’s title sponsorship and Campari’s involvement perfectly aligned with enhancing the event’s passion element, coinciding with Campari’s ‘Win Your Passion Moment’ campaign.

    The experience seamlessly blends generations through its musical programming, with two DJs strategically catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and younger patrons discovering classics for the first time. This creates an energetic yet soulful environment characterized by passion and nostalgia.

    With growth surpassing all expectations, the brand is now preparing for both local venue changes and international expansion. Buchanan proudly announced plans for Soul Sundays to launch in the United States by 2026, accompanied by bookings of both local and international entertainers to further elevate the entertainment package. From its Portmore origins to the global stage, 2026 is poised to become the event’s most transformative year yet, fundamentally reshaping Jamaica’s Sunday night culture.

  • JCCC poised for growth

    JCCC poised for growth

    The Jamaica Classic Car Club (JCCC) has ushered in a new era of leadership following its annual general meeting and elections held on February 22 at Curphey Place, St Andrew. Shane Angus, a seasoned figure within the organization, has been elected as the club’s new president, succeeding Naresh Potopsingh.

    Expressing his enthusiasm about the membership’s support, Angus revealed his strategic vision for the JCCC. “We have assembled a purpose-driven executive team with individuals specifically suited for their roles. This alignment is poised to bring significant positive transformation to the club,” Angus stated in an interview with the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.

    The newly constituted executive leadership includes Nigel McFarlane as First Vice-President, Gerald Cameron as Second Vice-President, Dwight Burchell as Treasurer, Paul Gammon as Assistant Treasurer, Marcel Brandon as Secretary, and Rick Chang as Assistant Secretary. The broader executive committee comprises twelve dedicated members: Wade Marsh, Rae Parchment, Neville Marsh, Raymond Shields, Courtney Thompson, Nicholas Chang, Vivian Mitchell, Kyle Jaisingh-Byles, Cressmore White, Douglas Ewbanks, Richard Hylton, and Denesh Baboolal.

    Angus, who previously presided over the club from 2013 to 2019, maintained his involvement with the executive committee even during his time overseas. His permanent return to Jamaica in 2025 marks a full reengagement with the JCCC’s mission. He assumes leadership of a club reported to be in robust financial and operational health, as highlighted by outgoing president Potopsingh. The former president’s report noted the club’s current status of being fully updated on all obligations, positioning it ideally for future expansion. Potopsingh also highlighted the club’s strengthened media presence and a notable increase in youth participation at events, thanking members for their support during his tenure.

    Key challenges identified for the incoming administration include addressing issues surrounding back licences for long-term vehicle projects, advocating for a flat registration fee for classic cars, and streamlining the re-registration process for vehicles lacking original documentation. Angus has augmented these priorities with his own ambitious goals: securing a permanent physical headquarters for the JCCC and reinvigorating the club’s core identity as a community for classic car enthusiasts. This involves re-engaging former members and assisting them in restoring and returning their vehicles to the road. A clubhouse would provide a vital social and administrative hub for both existing and prospective members.

    The meeting also served as an occasion to honor distinguished members. Raymond Shields was awarded the prestigious Clubman of the Year trophy, acknowledging his dedicated participation. Awards for outstanding service were presented to Gerald Cameron, Winston Marshall, and Gregory Webster. Brian Madden was recognized as the outstanding club member, while Shane Angus and Michael McFarlane were bestowed the title of Global Ambassador for their contributions.

  • Oversight or overreach?

    Oversight or overreach?

    A contentious dispute over procedural boundaries and parliamentary decorum disrupted Wednesday’s session of Jamaica’s Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), exposing deep divisions regarding the committee’s oversight authority. The confrontation emerged when Opposition members confronted Government MP Heroy Clarke of St James Central over his persistent interruptions during questioning of state entity representatives. The committee had convened specifically to review the National Water Commission’s recovery operations following Hurricane Melissa, but proceedings quickly devolved into a heated debate about the very nature of the PAAC’s constitutional role. Opposition parliamentarians accused Clarke of systematically undermining their legitimate oversight function by repeatedly challenging questions he deemed outside the committee’s purview. Clarke defended his interventions as necessary to maintain discipline and fairness, arguing that extended questioning by individual members could marginalize others and that infrastructure discussions properly belonged to other committees. The debate revealed fundamental disagreements about interpretation of the PAAC’s mandate, with St Mary Central MP Omar Newell citing specific constitutional provisions that authorize broad examination of government efficiency and administration. Newell called for a reset in committee conduct, emphasizing that “we can’t just bully and shout out to get our own way” and that disagreements should be resolved through proper points of order rather than loud interruptions. St James Southern MP Nekeisha Burchell countered Clarke’s position by asserting that public assets and performance—including infrastructure—fall squarely within the PAAC’s responsibility to ensure value for public expenditure. Committee Chairman Peter Bunting intervened to remind members of their shared objective to serve Jamaican citizens regardless of political affiliation, while subtly referencing Clarke’s former role as Deputy Speaker to underscore expectations of decorum. The exchange highlighted ongoing tensions between government and opposition members regarding parliamentary oversight mechanisms and the appropriate boundaries of committee authority in examining state administration.

  • FIX THE BOWLING!

    FIX THE BOWLING!

    The West Indies cricket team’s impressive five-match winning streak at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup came to a crushing halt on Thursday, suffering a decisive nine-wicket defeat against South Africa in their Super Eight Group 1 encounter in Ahmedabad. The loss has prompted serious concerns about the team’s bowling capabilities and batting strategy from veteran commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira.

    Despite posting a competitive total of 176/8 from their 20 overs, thanks largely to a record eighth-wicket partnership of 89 runs between Romario Shepherd (52 not out) and Jason Holder (49), the Caribbean side proved unable to defend their score. South Africa’s commanding chase saw them reach 177/1 in just 16.1 overs, with captain Aiden Markram leading the charge with a spectacular 82 runs from 46 deliveries.

    Perreira characterized the West Indies bowling performance as ‘ragged’ and called for immediate improvements from head coach Daren Sammy and his staff. ‘The bowling was ragged and Daren Sammy and company will have to look at how they can improve this bowling,’ Perreira told the Jamaica Observer. He particularly expressed disappointment in fast bowler Shamar Joseph’s performance and questioned whether pacer Jayden Seales should be brought in from the reserves bench.

    The batting approach also came under scrutiny after the top order collapsed to 83/7 before Shepherd and Holder’s recovery effort. Perreira noted a apparent lack of execution despite pre-match planning, stating ‘They discussed a plan last night and this morning, but when you go out there and you take guard, the batsmen are responsible for executing that plan.’

    The result leaves both West Indies and India level on two points in Group 1, though the Caribbean side maintains a significantly superior net run rate of 1.791 compared to India’s -0.1. This sets up a crucial final Super Eight match between the two teams on Sunday, with a semi-final berth hanging in the balance.

  • More money for refs?

    More money for refs?

    Jamaica’s emergence as a powerhouse for producing elite football referees may soon be accompanied by improved financial incentives on the domestic front. Gregory Daley, the newly appointed General Secretary of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) and a former referee himself, has indicated that increasing match fees for local officials is under serious consideration.

    This development comes as Jamaican referees continue to earn international recognition, with 21 currently on the FIFA panel—one of the highest representations in the CONCACAF region. These officials, who earn approximately $10,000 per match in Jamaica’s Premier League plus a $75-per-mile travel allowance, have become what Daley describes as “the best-kept secret” of Jamaican football excellence.

    Despite the constant focus on the Reggae Boyz national team, Daley emphasizes that refereeing represents one of Jamaica’s most consistently successful football departments internationally. His comments highlight the paradox between Jamaica’s refereeing prestige and the lack of domestic appreciation for these achievements.

    The proposed compensation review would extend beyond match fees to include training sessions and other professional commitments. Daley acknowledges the significant personal investment referees make, often traveling across the island at their own expense while maintaining the highest professional standards required for international competitions.

    Jamaica’s refereeing success story finds further validation with two officials—Daneon Parchment and Oshane Nation—currently in contention for selection to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both are VAR-certified, with Nation’s potential selection automatically including his Assistant Referee Ojay Duhaney.

    This would continue Jamaica’s legacy in World Cup officiating that began with Owen Powell (1998), followed by Peter Prendergast (2002), and several officials at Women’s and age-group World Cups.

    Beyond financial improvements, Daley stresses the importance of enhanced communication and engagement with match officials to prevent past disruptions and build a more collaborative relationship moving forward.

  • Eight China medical team arrives at QEH

    Eight China medical team arrives at QEH

    The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) has formally received the eighth contingent of medical experts from China, marking a significant milestone in international healthcare collaboration. This specialized team of seven seasoned professionals will integrate into the hospital’s clinical framework beginning Thursday, February 26, focusing on elevating specialist services and advancing patient care standards.

    The delegation brings together exceptional expertise across critical medical disciplines: Dr. Cui Kun, a distinguished Cardiologist, leads the team as Captain alongside Dr. Yu Yang, Cardiovascular Surgeon; Dr. Cui Hong, Anaesthesiologist; Dr. Hu Kei, Joint Surgeon; Dr. Li Huanhuan, Nuclear Medicine Physician; Dr. Xiao Yang, Ultrasound Diagnostic Physician; and Dr. Mou Qiujie, Acupuncturist.

    Their deployment will foster extensive interdepartmental collaboration, particularly enhancing capabilities in cardiovascular treatment, orthopaedic surgery, advanced anaesthesia protocols, precision diagnostic imaging, nuclear medicine applications, and integrative complementary therapies. This initiative is strategically designed to facilitate profound knowledge exchange and sustained skills transfer between the visiting specialists and QEH’s clinical staff.

    Dr. Carlos Chase, Director of Medical Services, personally welcomed the delegation, conducting an comprehensive orientation tour through pivotal hospital departments. This introductory session aimed to acclimatize the team with institutional operations, patient management systems, and existing clinical workflows to ensure seamless integration.

    The hospital administration expressed profound appreciation for this ongoing international partnership, emphasizing its transformative potential for elevating clinical outcomes, enriching service delivery quality, and fostering long-term advancements in specialized medical care through shared expertise and cross-cultural medical dialogue.

  • Minister condemns violent act against elderly man

    Minister condemns violent act against elderly man

    The Barbadian government has announced sweeping reforms to protect elderly citizens following a recent violent incident against a senior. Minister with responsibility for the elderly declared the nation’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the welfare, dignity, and security of older persons who built modern Barbados.

    The government will soon introduce the Older Persons (Care and Protection) Bill, which establishes comprehensive legal protections against physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse, plus neglect and abandonment. The legislation mandates severe penalties including fines up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both, sending a clear message of zero tolerance for elder abuse.

    Complementing these legal measures, the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs has launched the Social Empowerment Agency (SEA), operational since January 2, 2026. This innovative agency consolidates five core social services into a unified, person-centered organization dedicated to holistic support, skills development, and capacity-building for vulnerable populations including seniors.

    The Elder Affairs Programme forms the cornerstone of Barbados’ agenda for promoting healthy, active, and dignified aging. As the population of older citizens grows steadily, the program reflects government’s commitment to creating opportunities for meaningful contribution to national development while ensuring seniors live safer, more fulfilling lives.

    Government officials emphasized that Barbados stands at a pivotal moment in its journey toward becoming a truly inclusive society that values every citizen throughout their lifespan. The nation’s seniors, described as pillars of society who shaped post-Independence Barbados, deserve not only gratitude but comprehensive protection and support during their golden years.

  • Assembleevoorzitter: Hof bereid te kijken naar rationalisering geldelijke voorzieningen rechterlijke macht

    Assembleevoorzitter: Hof bereid te kijken naar rationalisering geldelijke voorzieningen rechterlijke macht

    In a significant development for Suriname’s governance structure, National Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin has confirmed ongoing consultations with the Judiciary regarding financial provisions within the judicial system. The dialogue marks a cooperative effort between two crucial branches of government to address compensation structures for judicial officials.

    Chairman Adhin disclosed to Starnieuws that he conducted formal discussions in his official capacity with the Court of Justice, particularly engaging with Court President Iwan Rasoelbaks. This diplomatic exchange has subsequently been followed by written correspondence from the judiciary, solidifying the commitment to mutual understanding.

    The constitutional framework allows every Assembly member to initiate proposals within this context, though Adhin emphasized his role as presiding officer to conduct more focused negotiations with the judicial branch. These smaller-scale discussions aim to meticulously examine proposals, insights, and factual information before reaching any determinations.

    Adhin reassured the public that the matter is being treated with appropriate seriousness between state powers, operating under the fundamental principle that financial provisions for the judiciary must be governed by statutory regulations. This approach ensures constitutional compliance while maintaining the dignity of judicial institutions.

    The Assembly leadership has deliberately separated two parallel processes to avoid procedural conflicts: the ongoing modernization of judicial infrastructure through parliamentary bills, and the separate consideration of financial provisions including judicial remuneration and emoluments. This sequential treatment allows each initiative to receive dedicated preparation and attention.

    Furthermore, Adhin highlighted that the 2026 national budget remains on the parliamentary agenda, confirming that authorities are maintaining a rigorous yet orderly schedule for these complementary governance initiatives.

  • South Africa continue winning run with nine-wicket victory over Windies

    South Africa continue winning run with nine-wicket victory over Windies

    South Africa delivered a commanding performance against West Indies on Thursday, securing a comprehensive nine-wicket victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super Eights stage. The match between the tournament’s last remaining unbeaten teams turned into a one-sided affair at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, with the Proteas effectively booking their semifinal berth through clinical execution.

    The victory was forged through exceptional bowling precision followed by explosive batting dominance. The pace duo of Lungi Ngidi (3-30) and Kagiso Rabada (2-22) engineered a dramatic West Indies collapse, reducing the Caribbean side to 83-7 within 11 overs. Their devastating spell threatened to bundle out the hosts for a subpar total until a record-breaking rescue mission emerged.

    Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd scripted the highest eighth-wicket partnership in T20 International history, adding 89 crucial runs to lift West Indies to a competitive 176-8. Holder’s brisk 49 off 31 deliveries complemented Shepherd’s maiden T20I half-century, an unbeaten 52 from 37 balls featuring four sixes and three boundaries.

    South Africa’s response was nothing short of spectacular. Captain Aiden Markram orchestrated the chase with an authoritative unbeaten 82 from just 46 deliveries, hammering seven fours and four sixes in a masterclass of power hitting. He received formidable support from Quinton de Kock, who blazed 47 off 24 balls before departing, and Ryan Rickelton’s unbeaten 45 ensured the Proteas reached their target of 177 with 23 balls remaining.

    The match witnessed several turning points, including dropped chances that proved costly for West Indies. Brandon King spilled a difficult opportunity to dismiss Markram early in the innings, while earlier reprieves for Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford failed to alter the match’s ultimate trajectory.

    This victory marks South Africa’s second consecutive win in the Super Eights stage, positioning them strongly for semifinal qualification while ending West Indies’ previously unblemished tournament record.