Jamaica is strategically positioning itself to tap into the lucrative luxury travel market, particularly targeting high-spending tourists from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The GCC, established in 1981, comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These nations are renowned for their affluent travelers who seek premium experiences, including five-star accommodations, halal-certified dining, and culturally sensitive services. With Saudi Arabia leading in population size, followed by the UAE and Oman, the GCC market represents a significant opportunity for Jamaica’s tourism sector. To capitalize on this, Jamaica is enhancing its offerings to meet the specific needs of GCC travelers, such as Arabic-speaking concierge services, luxury transfers, and privacy-focused amenities. A recent codeshare agreement between Emirates and Condor Airlines has further facilitated connectivity between Dubai, Frankfurt, and Montego Bay, paving the way for increased Middle Eastern visitation. Vijay D’Souza, trade director at Buzz Travel Marketing and regional representative for the Jamaica Tourist Board, emphasized the untapped potential of the GCC market, noting that word-of-mouth recommendations play a crucial role in attracting these travelers. Cortez Gordon, founder of Salaam Jamaica Tourism Network, highlighted the importance of aligning Jamaica’s tourism offerings with Islamic values, including halal-certified cuisine, prayer facilities, and culturally sensitive services. Gordon expressed optimism that these efforts could lead to significant economic benefits, including job creation and market diversification, while positioning Jamaica as a globally inclusive, Muslim-friendly destination.
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TJH makes partial pref share redemption
TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH) has commenced the partial redemption of its cumulative redeemable preference shares as part of its strategic growth initiatives. The company recently redeemed 5% of the principal amount of its 2.7 billion preference shares, equivalent to 135 million shares or US$1.35 million, based on a US$0.01 par value. This redemption, executed on July 14, coincided with the quarterly dividend payment. TJH’s preference shares offer an 8.0% dividend yield. The Jamaica Central Securities Depository (JCSD) facilitated the redemption process, ensuring pro-rata distribution among shareholders. Despite receiving a query, TJH reported no objections to the transaction. The company has since aligned its redemption schedule with the original terms, adjusting the maximum optional redemption amount to 15% by January 30, 2026, with quarterly redemptions tied to dividend payments. TJH initially issued these preference shares in January 2020, raising US$27 million. The shares, listed at $1.41 in September 2020, are set to mature by January 2028. TJH retains the right to redeem up to 20% of the shares after the sixth anniversary of issuance. The company’s Q2 2024 report highlighted a carrying value of US$23.88 million for the preference shares, with US$22.26 million classified as non-current. Early redemptions free up cash for ordinary shareholders, with TJH announcing a $0.1292 dividend totaling $1.62 billion, payable on October 24. This marks a 35% increase from 2024, reflecting TJH’s robust financial performance. Additionally, TJH updated its dividend payment structure to accommodate USD shareholders. The company is set to launch Phase 1C of Highway 2000 East-West in October, projected to generate US$9.5 million in revenue. TJH’s 2024 revenue reached US$82.82 million, driven by increased toll volumes, with net profit rising 28% to US$17.78 million. The company also adjusted toll rates and streamlined T-Tag acquisition processes, enhancing customer convenience. TJH’s asset base stood at US$295.44 million, with total equity closing at US$72.99 million. Despite a 13% decline in JMD share price, TJH remains focused on its expansion and operational efficiency.
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Digicel expands solar project
Digicel Jamaica has embarked on a multimillion-dollar solar power initiative, not to hike customer rates but to safeguard revenues by maintaining service continuity during grid failures. CEO Stephen Murad emphasized that the 12-month collaboration with U.S.-based Caban Energy is designed to ensure uninterrupted services across all parishes, whether during hurricanes, Jamaica Public Service (JPS) outages, or even routine incidents like road accidents. Murad clarified that the investment is not a cost passed on to customers but a strategic move to strengthen the company’s reliability. The project, which began earlier this month, involves installing solar and battery systems at 511 of Digicel’s 930 sites, with teams working on 30 to 40 sites monthly. Caban Energy CEO Alexandra Rasch highlighted that approximately 180 local personnel are engaged in logistics, finance, and construction. The initiative also extends beyond cell towers, encompassing Digicel’s downtown headquarters and regional data centers, which handle critical traffic. Murad described the investment as part of a broader technology upgrade program, including recent fiber builds in Montego Bay. While Jamaica is the first market for this project, other regions like Haiti, the Cayman Islands, and Dominica are already preparing to follow suit. Digicel, operating in 25 markets across the Caribbean, Central America, and the Pacific, serves nearly nine million customers through mobile, home, and business services, with significant operations in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Haiti.
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Distress calls
In September, Jamaica’s Ministry of Health witnessed an overwhelming surge in calls to its mental health and suicide prevention helpline, with over 500 distress calls recorded in a single month. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton revealed that the 24/7 free and confidential service provided counselling or referrals based on individual needs. This disclosure came in response to inquiries from the Jamaica Observer, following a Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) report highlighting a mid-year spike in suicides, particularly in St. Catherine North. The helpline, staffed by psychologists, offers crisis intervention, psychological support, and referrals for those experiencing suicidal tendencies or mental health challenges. To bolster mental health care, the ministry has trained 47 non-psychiatric healthcare workers under the World Health Organization’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP), with more training sessions planned. Additionally, the School Mental Health Literacy Programme, set to resume this month, aims to reduce stigma and improve mental health awareness among students. At the community level, Problem Management Plus providers are being deployed to address mild emotional distress and adverse challenges, with 45 active providers currently in the field. Public mental health clinics, including over 150 adult clinics and 20 for children and adolescents, continue to operate islandwide. Despite a 17% overall decline in suicides from 2024 to 2025, the JCF report noted significant variations across months, parishes, and gender categories. A mid-year surge in July and August, coupled with geographic hotspots like St. Catherine North, underscores the need for dynamic, nuanced prevention strategies. The report calls for enhanced early detection, community engagement, and support networks to address these challenges effectively.
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APPEALS PENDING
In a landmark ruling on Tuesday, the Supreme Court found Andrew “French” Wright, Oneil Hope, and Rudolph Barnes guilty of multiple counts of fraud, including conspiracy to defraud, acquisition and use of criminal property, and larceny as a servant. The charges stem from a $222 million fraud scheme against INSPORTS, a government sports agency, between 2010 and 2017. The case was uncovered following an internal audit and subsequent investigation by the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency. Wright, a former financial controller at INSPORTS and a prominent party promoter, was arrested in 2013 while contesting his dismissal from the agency. He was convicted on 13 counts of fraud by Justice Ann-Marie Lawrence-Grainger in the Home Circuit Court in Kingston. Hope and Barnes were found guilty on eight and 11 counts, respectively. Attorneys for Wright and Hope have announced plans to appeal the verdict, citing multiple grounds for challenging the decision. Wright’s legal team argued that his earnings were from his party promotion business, Chug It, but the court dismissed this claim, stating that INSPORTS funds were “intertwined” with his personal finances. The court also highlighted evidence of fraudulent invoices and unauthorized payments, leading to significant financial losses for INSPORTS. All three defendants have been remanded until their sentencing on November 21. Meanwhile, three former INSPORTS employees were acquitted of any wrongdoing.
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Nonsense!
As the search for 12-year-old Jayden Smith enters its fifth day, his aunt and guardian, Ann-Marie Thompson, has vehemently denied allegations of mistreatment being the cause of his disappearance. Thompson, who has cared for Jayden since he was five, emphasized her dedication to his well-being, stating, ‘I got his birth certificate, ensured he was fully immunized, and supported his academic success.’ Jayden, the top student and valedictorian at Bethabara Primary School, went missing last Friday after attending classes at Manchester High School. Thompson addressed rumors linking his disappearance to a minor incident involving her two-year-old grandson, clarifying that the injury was accidental and that she had not been harsh with Jayden. She speculated that Jayden might be grappling with guilt over the incident, given his reserved nature. Thompson also condemned prank calls about Jayden’s whereabouts, which have added to her distress. The search, involving firefighters, police, soldiers, and community members, has yet to yield credible leads. Manchester High School Principal Jasford Gabriel expressed hope for Jayden’s safe return, noting the emotional toll on his classmates. Thompson appealed to the public for information, describing Jayden as a loving, humble, and helpful child. The community remains united in their efforts to bring Jayden home.
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Bartlett heads to London for Jamaica Travel Market 2025
KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a strategic move to bolster Jamaica’s tourism sector, Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett embarked on a global tour, commencing with his departure for London, England, on Tuesday. His itinerary includes pivotal engagements at the Jamaica Travel Market 2025, scheduled from October 1–3, 2025. This premier trade event, orchestrated by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), aims to foster business connections between Jamaican tourism providers and international buyers, driving investment and growth in the island’s thriving tourism industry.
Minister Bartlett emphasized the significance of the UK market, stating, ‘The UK remains one of our strongest source markets. The Jamaica Travel Market provides a platform to reinforce partnerships, highlight the resilience of our tourism sector, and ensure Jamaica remains a top destination for travelers.’
In London, Bartlett’s packed agenda includes back-to-back business-to-business (B2B) meetings with key stakeholders on October 2, followed by a networking luncheon. He will also hold discussions with Jules Ugo, CEO of W Communications, Jamaica’s UK-based PR agency. A major highlight of his visit will be a strategic meeting with the TUI Group, where he will engage with Phillip Iveson, Director of Accommodation Product & Sourcing, and Jill Thompson, Head of Product & Ancillaries, to explore growth opportunities in the UK and broader European markets. The day will conclude with a cocktail reception and the prestigious Platinum Celebration Awards Dinner.
On October 3, the minister will continue his B2B meetings, receive an update on Jamaica’s tourism outlook, and attend a Jamaican barbecue luncheon before departing the event.
Following his London engagements, Bartlett will travel to Toronto, Canada, on October 5, to attend the JTB’s Edith Baxter Memorial Awards Gala and conduct critical media engagements. ‘The Canadian market is vital for us. My discussions will focus on expanding airlift and positioning Jamaica as the preferred destination for Canadian visitors,’ he remarked.
The final leg of his tour will take him to New York on October 10 for the American Friends of Jamaica’s (AFJ) Hummingbird Gala at The Plaza Hotel. The event will honor two distinguished Jamaicans: Jason Henzell, founder of BREDS Foundation and chairman of Jakes Hotel, who will receive the International Humanitarian Award, and Josef “Joe” Bogdanovich, founder and CEO of DownSound Entertainment Limited, who will be awarded the International Achievement Award.
‘It will be a proud moment to celebrate the remarkable contributions of these individuals to tourism, entertainment, and community development,’ Bartlett said. The minister is expected to return to Jamaica on October 12, concluding his extensive global mission.
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Guyana’s president calls for mature and open discussions on the US military presence in the region
In a compelling address to Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali emphasized the necessity of approaching the United States’ increasing naval presence in the Caribbean with vigilance and open dialogue. Speaking on Tuesday, Ali urged regional leaders to engage in mature and transparent discussions about the security implications of this military build-up, particularly in light of concerns such as drug trafficking, illegal migration, and the misuse of international waterways.
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France’s Gael Monfils announces retirement at end of 2026
PARIS, France — In a heartfelt announcement on Wednesday, French tennis star Gael Monfils revealed that the 2026 tennis season will mark the end of his illustrious professional career. The 39-year-old, renowned for his athleticism and captivating playing style, has been a prominent figure on the ATP tour for over two decades since his debut at the Open de Moselle in October 2004.
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Mottley urges support for full free movement of Caricom nationals
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Prime Minister Mia Mottley has announced that Barbados, alongside St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize, and Dominica, will fully implement the free movement of nationals among these Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries starting today. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), enabling the unrestricted flow of goods, skills, labor, and services across the region. The Guyana-based Caricom Secretariat confirmed that extensive preparations have been made to ensure a seamless rollout, while other CSME member states will continue facilitating movement under existing skilled worker provisions. In a national address, Mottley emphasized the transformative potential of this policy, acknowledging both excitement and anxiety among citizens. She highlighted Barbados’ historical leadership in regional integration and assured that the move would bolster jobs, public services, and economic growth. Mottley outlined key procedures, including immigration status and public health safeguards, while reaffirming the region’s robust security architecture. She also underscored the economic benefits, noting that incoming workers would contribute to local businesses, housing, and tax revenues. Addressing demographic challenges, Mottley stressed the need for a strong workforce to support aging populations and social security systems. She dismissed concerns about exploitation, affirming that existing labor laws and minimum wage standards would apply equally to all workers. Mottley concluded by framing the initiative as a measured, compassionate step toward building bridges in a world increasingly defined by division.