ST ANN, Jamaica — The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) has officially reopened Turtle River Park in Ocho Rios, St Ann, following extensive cleanup and restoration efforts. In a media statement released on Tuesday, the UDC confirmed that the park is now fully prepared to welcome families, residents, and tourists alike. The corporation emphasized that Turtle River Park remains a cherished public space, offering a serene and accessible environment for relaxation, reflection, and quality family time. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park’s natural beauty, including its expansive lawns, scenic walking paths, and tranquil ambiance in the heart of Ocho Rios. The UDC expressed its enthusiasm for welcoming guests back to this beloved destination, which continues to be a cornerstone of community life and tourism in the region.
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US delivers HIV prevention drug to two African states
In a significant move to combat HIV in Africa, the United States has initiated the delivery of Lenacapavir, a revolutionary injectable treatment, to Eswatini and Zambia. This development comes despite President Donald Trump’s substantial reductions in global aid earlier this year. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and Gilead Sciences, the pharmaceutical company behind the drug. Approximately 1,000 doses have already been dispatched, with administration set to commence this week, according to Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund. Jeremy Lewin, a State Department aid coordinator, revealed plans to fund two million doses for low- and middle-income African nations, aiming for completion by 2028, potentially as early as mid-2027. Lenacapavir, requiring only biannual administration, marks a significant advancement over daily pill regimens, offering a promising reduction in new HIV infections, particularly among pregnant and breastfeeding women. Despite the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to foreign aid and HIV/AIDS prevention programs, this initiative underscores a targeted approach to health assistance. Gilead Sciences’ Chairman and CEO, Daniel O’Day, highlighted the historic nature of this rollout, noting it as the first instance of a medication being introduced in Africa the same year it was approved in the US. However, this effort is shadowed by grim forecasts regarding the impact of reduced global aid, with experts predicting an additional 22.6 million preventable deaths by 2030 due to aid cuts by the US and European countries.
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New York AG urges temporary protected status for Jamaicans after Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025, New York Attorney General Letitia James has called on the federal government to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Jamaicans currently residing in the United States. The hurricane, the most intense to ever hit the island, has resulted in at least 45 fatalities and caused over $2 billion in property damage, displacing approximately 30,000 households and severely disrupting access to essential services such as electricity, clean water, and medical care.
In a formal letter addressed to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), James emphasized the urgent need for TPS, a designation that allows individuals from countries experiencing severe crises to live and work legally in the U.S. without fear of deportation. ‘Hurricane Melissa has inflicted unimaginable devastation on our Jamaican neighbors, destroying vital infrastructure and leaving tens of thousands homeless,’ James stated. ‘Forcing Jamaicans in the U.S. to return to a shattered homeland would be both dangerous and inhumane. TPS was designed precisely for such situations, and the federal government must act swiftly to protect those affected.’
James’s appeal has garnered widespread support from political leaders, including Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, who highlighted the U.S.’s moral and diplomatic obligations to Jamaica. ‘Jamaica has been a steadfast ally to the United States since its founding,’ Clarke remarked. ‘We must honor our humanitarian commitments by ensuring that Jamaicans are not forced to return to unsafe conditions while their nation rebuilds.’
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., whose family has Jamaican roots, echoed these sentiments, urging the Trump administration to ‘set politics aside’ and extend TPS without delay. ‘The heart-wrenching images of devastation in Jamaica compel us to act,’ Richards said. ‘The U.S. must stand with our Caribbean brothers and sisters during this critical time.’
New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, representing one of the largest Caribbean communities in the city, also voiced her support. ‘Extending TPS is not only the right thing to do but also a testament to the deep cultural and historical ties between New York City and Jamaica,’ she asserted. ‘It is our shared responsibility to provide safety and stability to those in need.’
The call for TPS follows a precedent set by the U.S. government, which has previously granted the designation to nationals of Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Nepal following natural disasters. As Jamaica begins the arduous process of recovery, the extension of TPS would offer critical relief to those affected by the hurricane’s unprecedented destruction.
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What about removal of online tax?
In a heartfelt letter to the editor published in Newsday, Barry S. Bissessar, a self-proclaimed ‘Fyzo boy’ and former schoolmate of Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, extended his congratulations on Tancoo’s recent appointment to public office. However, Bissessar also took the opportunity to remind the minister of a significant campaign promise: the removal of the seven per cent Online Purchase Tax (OPT).
Bissessar recalled that the current Prime Minister, during his time as opposition leader, had repeatedly criticized the OPT as a ‘nuisance tax’ and vowed to eliminate it. The tax was introduced during the 2016-2017 budget by the then finance minister, placing an additional burden on an already heavily taxed population.
While acknowledging that the removal of the OPT might have been overlooked in the preparation of the 2025-2026 budget, Bissessar expressed confidence that the issue would be addressed during the mid-year review or, at the latest, in the next budget cycle. The letter serves as both a congratulatory message and a gentle nudge to the finance minister to fulfill a key electoral promise.
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Financing government projects danger
In a recent letter to the editor, concerns were raised regarding the chairman’s announcement that FCB is prepared to finance government projects. While supporting national infrastructure is undeniably important, the strong stance taken by the bank could jeopardize its financial stability if these projects fail to yield sufficient returns. This could result in diminished profitability, potential impairments, and a subsequent decline in share prices. Shareholders are likely to be cautious about investments that seem to prioritize political or strategic goals over sound financial management. A decline in profits could prompt investors to withdraw their funds and seek safer alternatives, potentially leading to a shift of investments to more stable, profit-driven institutions. This is especially concerning given the potential for increased government influence, such as the appointment of board members in institutions like Republic Financial Holdings Ltd, possibly in December. The pattern of government influence risks creating a cycle where financial institutions become less driven by commercial prudence and more by political directives, potentially leading to a loss of investor confidence and a reduction in the overall stability of the banking sector. While supporting government initiatives is crucial for national development, it is equally important to maintain the financial integrity and independence of banks and other financial institutions. Proper governance, transparent project selection, and adherence to sound banking principles must be prioritized to protect shareholder interests and ensure long-term economic stability.
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Pancreatic cancer: Silent nature, growing threat
Trinidad and Tobago is grappling with the devastating loss of Alexandra Kong, a 24-year-old fourth-year medical student at the University of the West Indies (UWI), who succumbed to pancreatic cancer on November 5. Her untimely death has sparked a national conversation about one of the deadliest and most elusive forms of cancer, drawing attention to the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and improved treatment options.
Dr. Fawwaz Mohammed, a renowned hepatopancreatobiliary surgeon with 18 years of experience, provided critical insights into the disease. He explained that the pancreas, located behind the stomach, plays a dual role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Pancreatic cancer arises from uncontrolled cell growth, with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) accounting for 95% of cases globally and in Trinidad and Tobago.
Risk factors include smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, heavy alcohol use, age over 60, and family history. However, the disease’s silent progression and the pancreas’ deep abdominal location make early detection challenging. Symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss often appear only in advanced stages.
Despite the lack of a reliable screening test, Trinidad and Tobago boasts advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, including CT scans, MRI, and the complex Whipple’s procedure. Dr. Mohammed emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and public education campaigns similar to those for breast cancer.
Looking ahead, advancements in technology, artificial intelligence, and genetics offer hope for improved outcomes. Minimally invasive robotic surgeries, 3D/4D imaging, and innovative chemotherapeutic drugs are transforming cancer care. Dr. Mohammed remains optimistic, urging early detection and a holistic approach to health to combat this silent killer.
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Arrive Alive hosts 5K run, walk and ride
On November 16, hundreds of participants, including runners, walkers, and cyclists, gathered at Queen’s Park Savannah in Trinidad for the annual World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. Organized by the NGO Arrive Alive, the event featured a 5K run/walk, a memorial walk, and solidarity rides across various locations in Trinidad. The event aimed to honor those who lost their lives or were affected by road traffic accidents while advocating for safer roads. The United Nations formally endorsed this global observance in 2005, emphasizing the importance of remembering victims and supporting their families. The event’s slogan, “Remember. Support. Act.,” called for collective action to prevent future tragedies. Sharon Inglefield, President of Arrive Alive, stressed the need for national commitment to road safety, urging stakeholders to work together to save lives. Stéphane Barc, Country Manager of Perenco Trinidad and Tobago Ltd, highlighted the company’s dedication to safety, both in the workplace and on the roads. Eli Zakour, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, emphasized the government’s data-driven approach to road safety, focusing on education, enforcement, and engineering. The event also recognized the contributions of sponsors, including Perenco as the Platinum Sponsor, Mobil, Starbucks, and Capital Signal Company Limited. Participants engaged with informational booths hosted by the police, fire service, and Global Medical Response Ambulance Services, reinforcing the importance of road awareness and emergency preparedness. The day concluded with a competitive 5K run, with winners in both male and female categories announced. Arrive Alive expressed gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their continued support in reducing road traffic fatalities and injuries.
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Yorke: I take full responsibilty for the team
Trinidad and Tobago’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were extinguished after a 1-1 draw with Jamaica at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on November 13. Head coach Dwight Yorke, who took charge in November 2024 with the ambitious goal of leading the team to the World Cup, has shouldered full responsibility for the outcome. Despite the disappointment, Yorke expressed pride in his players’ efforts and the progress made during his tenure. He acknowledged that the team’s inability to secure more victories, particularly in crucial matches, ultimately cost them a spot in the tournament. Yorke emphasized his commitment to self-reflection and improvement, stating, ‘I always look at myself first rather than pointing fingers at anyone else.’ The former Manchester United star also highlighted the emergence of a new generation of players, many of whom were recruited from abroad and have quickly integrated into the squad. As Trinidad and Tobago prepares to face Bermuda in a match for pride on November 18, Yorke remains focused on maintaining high standards and motivating his team. He assured fans that the squad is ready to compete, despite the recent setback. The match against Bermuda will serve as an opportunity for the team to showcase their resilience and determination as they look ahead to future campaigns.
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A coach is a team’s first psychologist
The decision by Cricket West Indies (CWI) to introduce a mental skills and performance coach for the senior men’s cricket team has sparked considerable debate. Critics argue that cricket, inherently a psychological game, relies on players’ temperament, passion, and enthusiasm, which are best nurtured by a coach with deep cricketing experience. The move was recommended by CWI’s Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, established in August following the team’s dismal performance against Australia, where they were bowled out for just 27 runs in Kingston. The committee includes cricket legends Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara, the latter being the first West Indies captain to lose all five Test matches in a single series during the 1998/99 tour of South Africa. Critics question the assumption that top international cricketers automatically make effective coaches, citing the challenges of transitioning from playing to coaching. While former players like Sir Vivian Richards have struggled in coaching roles, they can still offer valuable mentorship. CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, defends the decision, emphasizing the importance of mindset and composure at the elite level. However, skeptics argue that a single, well-qualified coach should suffice, questioning the need for additional handlers and the associated costs. The effectiveness of this strategy remains to be seen, as the team’s performance under the current administration continues to be scrutinized.
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Penal dad, mom slain, gunman warns victims’ daughter
A devastating home invasion in Penal has left a 19-year-old girl without her parents after Raffeak Vialva, 51, and Babita Vialva, 40, were fatally shot in their home on November 17. The incident occurred around 3 am when an unidentified assailant, armed with a sledgehammer, forcibly entered their residence on Penal Rock Road. The couple’s daughter awoke to the sound of gunfire and discovered her father bleeding on the ground and the gunman standing over her mother, demanding money. Despite being ordered to return to her room, she heard additional gunshots, resulting in her mother’s death and her father succumbing to his injuries en route to the hospital. Relatives and neighbors expressed shock and confusion, describing the Vialvas as a peaceful, hardworking family with no known enemies. Investigators are treating the case as a botched robbery, though no valuables were taken. The community has been left traumatized by the brutal attack, which follows a series of similar incidents in the area. Authorities have launched Operation Festive Shield to enhance safety during the holiday season, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.