Jamaica has reaffirmed its commitment to combating climate change by submitting its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0 to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This move aligns with the Paris Agreement’s mandate for countries to revise their climate action plans every five years, ensuring increased ambition and alignment with global temperature goals. Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness announced the submission during his address at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, emphasizing Jamaica’s leadership in climate action. The updated NDC 3.0 builds on previous commitments, expanding its scope to include energy, transport, industry, forestry, and land use. Key targets include a 25.4% unconditional reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, with a conditional target of 28.5%. Additionally, Jamaica aims to achieve 12% electric vehicle adoption in private fleets and 16% in public fleets by the same year. Holness highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on small island developing states like Jamaica, stressing the urgent need for enhanced adaptation and mitigation measures. The updated NDC is grounded in Jamaica’s Vision 2030, Climate Change Policy Framework, and Long-Term Low-Emission Strategy, reflecting a comprehensive and realistic approach to climate resilience.
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Obeah pushback
A heated debate has emerged in Jamaica as the Unuchi Foundation, a non-profit advocating for Africana spirituality, campaigns to repeal the Obeah Act of 1898. This move has sparked strong opposition from Christian groups, who fear that legalizing the folk practice could unleash demonic forces and exacerbate societal issues. On Wednesday, representatives from various church groups gathered in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, to pray against the potential decriminalization of Obeah. They urged Jamaicans to recognize the dangers of the practice and resist efforts to legitimize it. Bishop Dr. Alvin Bailey, president of the Jamaica Evangelical Alliance, emphasized that while Obeah is currently illegal, it remains prevalent and destructive. He warned that legalizing it would be a disastrous decision, enabling deviant behaviors and spiritual wickedness. The Unuchi Foundation, however, argues that Obeah is an integral part of African heritage and seeks to empower and heal people through its practice. The foundation organized a candlelight vigil and a virtual event to mark the first constitutional hearing on decriminalizing Obeah. Christian leaders, including Bishop Rowan Edwards and Pastor Dalbert Simmonds, have vowed to oppose any such legalization, citing the negative impact of similar practices like Voodoo in Haiti. The Church’s stance reflects deep concerns about the societal and spiritual consequences of legitimizing Obeah, which they believe could further destabilize the nation.
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Crackdown coming
In a decisive move to protect Jamaica’s tourism sector, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has announced plans to strengthen regulations and enforce penalties against unregulated operators. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer, Bartlett emphasized the risks posed by unlicensed activities, which undermine the country’s tourism product. He revealed that the government will collaborate with the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Justice to ensure compliance and enforce sanctions effectively. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns from licensed stakeholders who report unfair competition from unregulated entities. For instance, Garfield Dussard, owner of Garfield’s Diving, highlighted the challenges of competing with operators who bypass permits, licenses, and insurance, offering cheaper rates and larger commissions. Similar grievances are echoed across the industry, with licensed transport providers, craftsmen, and tour companies losing market share to unregulated rivals. The Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) has begun issuing cease-and-desist orders to unregistered operators, but many argue that enforcement remains inconsistent. Licensed operators like Robert McNamee and Dalton Green have expressed frustration over the lack of effective action, with some even considering exiting the industry due to unsustainable competition. Minister Bartlett has called for stricter enforcement and a partnership with local authorities to ensure compliance with standards. The Tourism Ministry is also pursuing policies to incentivize greater participation of Jamaican manufacturers, farmers, and professionals in the tourism supply chain. As Jamaica strives to maintain its status as a premier destination, stakeholders stress the need for a balanced regulatory framework that ensures safety, fairness, and sustainability for all participants in the industry.
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Extreme weather
Last Friday, the Corporate Area of Jamaica was hit by torrential rains described by climate change and extreme rainfall specialist Dr. Christopher Burgess as an ‘extreme’ weather event. Data from privately owned automatic weather stations indicated that the rainfall represented a ’50-to-100-year return period event,’ making it both rare and severe due to its duration. The downpour, which began around 4:30 pm on September 19, caused widespread flooding, immobilizing motorists, inundating homes, and leaving a trail of debris and devastation. The rains subsided after 8:00 pm, but the damage was already significant. Dr. Burgess, a registered professional and civil engineer with expertise in environmental and coastal engineering, identified New Kingston, Cross Roads, and Cherry Gardens as the ‘epicenter of the weather event.’ He emphasized, ‘There is no doubt that the rainfall was extreme.’ The Meteorological Services of Jamaica reported rainfall amounts from various stations, including 39.1 mm in three hours at Kingston College, 68 mm in two hours at Mona Reservoir, and 75.6 mm in two hours at Shortwood Teachers’ College. However, the Mico University station in Cross Roads went offline during the storm. Climate Services Manager Jacqueline Spence-Hemmings noted that the rainfall was significant, with Mona receiving 68 mm in two hours, nearly half of the 30-year mean rainfall for September. She highlighted the intensity of the event, stating, ‘You got almost half of what’s expected in a month in about an hour and a half.’ Dr. Burgess pointed out that privately owned stations recorded higher rainfall levels than the Meteorological Services, suggesting the event was even more extreme. Meanwhile, Professor Carol Archer of the University of Technology warned that such flooding will persist unless Jamaica overhauls its rainwater infrastructure and enforces existing legislation. She stressed the need for updated regulations and enforcement to prevent improper development. The Meteorological Services also forecasted scattered showers and thunderstorms across most parishes in the coming days, underscoring the ongoing risk of extreme weather.
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Spotify moves to tackle AI abuse with transparency measures
Spotify has announced a series of initiatives aimed at promoting transparency and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in music production. The Swedish streaming giant is urging artists and publishers to adopt a new metadata standard developed by the Digital Data Exchange (DDEX), a consortium of media companies, music licensing organizations, and technology firms. This standard allows tracks to be labeled as entirely, partially, or not at all created with AI, ensuring clarity for listeners and stakeholders. Sam Duboff, Spotify’s head of music marketing, confirmed that these metadata will be accessible across the platform once integrated. The move comes in response to the growing influence of AI in music, highlighted by the viral success of AI-generated tracks like those from The Velvet Sundown, which garnered millions of streams earlier this year. While the labeling system is voluntary, Spotify emphasizes that it does not intend to penalize artists who use AI responsibly. Over 15 labels and distributors have already committed to the DDEX standard. Additionally, Spotify has updated its policies to explicitly prohibit unauthorized AI use, such as deepfakes or imitations created without consent, and will remove such content. The platform’s stance reflects a nuanced approach to AI, recognizing its diverse applications in the creative process while safeguarding artistic integrity.
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Spotify moves to tackle AI abuse with transparency measures
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 35-year-old taxi operator, Andre Catnott from Longwall, Stony Hill, has been formally charged with the trafficking of a 16-year-old girl. The case has drawn significant attention to the issue of human exploitation in the region. According to police reports, Catnott, who was working as a driver for a ride-share company in November 2024, encountered the teenager during one of his trips. Upon learning that she had run away from home, he allegedly offered her a modeling job at his massage company. This offer, however, turned out to be a ruse for exploitation. After exchanging contact information, the girl was reportedly coerced into performing sexual acts for money with various clients in the corporate area, with Catnott allegedly collecting the proceeds. The situation came to light in February 2025 when a family member located the teenager and reported the matter to the police, initiating an investigation. On September 17, officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) conducted a raid at Catnott’s residence, leading to his arrest. Acting Senior Superintendent of Police Victor Barrett emphasized the JCF’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals. ‘The Jamaica Constabulary Force is working tirelessly to locate and arrest individuals who exploit children and prey on the most vulnerable in our country,’ Barrett stated. ‘Public support and information on these individuals are crucial to our investigations; they must be brought to justice.’ The police have indicated that investigations into Catnott’s operations are ongoing, with efforts to identify and apprehend other individuals involved. Catnott was formally charged on Monday, September 22, and is scheduled to appear before the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Friday, September 26, 2025. Authorities are urging members of the public with information about human trafficking or other organized crimes to contact C-TOC at 876-967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311, or their nearest police station.
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White House threatens mass firings as government shutdown looms
The White House has escalated tensions in a looming government shutdown crisis, instructing federal agencies to prepare for potential mass layoffs under President Donald Trump’s administration. In a memo obtained by AFP, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) warned that this shutdown would deviate from past practices of temporary furloughs, instead considering permanent staff reductions. The memo directed agencies to issue Reduction in Force (RIF) notices and submit plans for workforce cuts, particularly in departments most affected by a shutdown. This approach mirrors the Trump administration’s earlier large-scale firings under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The White House accused congressional Democrats of making “insane demands” and breaking a decade-long bipartisan tradition of avoiding shutdowns. However, the OMB expressed hope that Democrats would avert a crisis. Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries dismissed the threats, calling OMB chief Russ Vought a “malignant political hack” and vowing not to be intimidated. A shutdown would halt non-essential operations and leave hundreds of thousands of federal employees temporarily unpaid. The standoff stems from a funding dispute ahead of the September 30 fiscal deadline, with Democrats rejecting a stopgap bill passed by the Republican-controlled House. Trump canceled a meeting with Democratic leaders, demanding they “become realistic.” With Congress in recess and time running out, Republicans warned they would not return before the deadline, forcing the Senate to accept their proposal or face a shutdown. The bill, if passed, would only provide temporary funding until November 21. The last shutdown in March resulted from Republican refusal to negotiate over Trump’s budget cuts and layoffs.
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Former Miss Universe Jamaica finalist found dead amid mental health struggles
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Miss Universe Jamaica Organization has expressed profound sorrow over the untimely death of Tyra Spaulding, a cherished finalist in the 2023 competition. The 26-year-old accountant was discovered at her residence on Tuesday evening, hanging from her bed frame with a pink curtain around her neck. Authorities are currently investigating the incident as a suspected suicide. In a heartfelt statement released on Thursday, the organization described Spaulding as more than just a contestant, highlighting her vibrant personality, intelligence, and inspiring nature. ‘Tyra’s grace and spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered,’ the statement read. The organization, along with reigning Miss Universe Jamaica, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, and National Directors Mark McDermoth and Karl Williams, extended their deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and loved ones. ‘We join them in mourning her loss and celebrating her extraordinary life and legacy. May she find eternal peace,’ the statement concluded. Spaulding was also known for her advocacy in mental health and suicide prevention, adding a poignant layer to this tragic event.
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Taxi operator charged with child trafficking
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 35-year-old taxi operator, Andre Catnott from Longwall, Stony Hill, has been formally charged with the trafficking of a 16-year-old girl. The case, which has drawn significant attention, underscores the ongoing issue of human trafficking in the region. According to law enforcement officials, Catnott allegedly exploited the teenager after she ran away from home in November 2024. Posing as a driver for a ride-share company, he reportedly offered her a modeling job at his massage business, only to coerce her into engaging in sexual acts with clients for financial gain. Catnott is accused of managing these transactions and profiting from the exploitation. The teenager was eventually located by a family member in February 2025, leading to a formal police investigation. On September 17, officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) executed a raid on Catnott’s residence, resulting in his arrest. Acting Senior Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC emphasized the force’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, stating, ‘The Jamaica Constabulary Force is working tirelessly to locate and arrest those who exploit children and prey on the most vulnerable in our country.’ Catnott was formally charged on September 22 and is set to appear in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on September 26, 2025. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in the operation. The public is encouraged to report any information related to human trafficking or organized crime to C-TOC at 876-967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311, or their nearest police station.
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US Coast Guard offloads nearly 65m in illicit narcotics interdicted in Caribbean Sea
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the United States Coast Guard has successfully intercepted and offloaded approximately 8,700 pounds of cocaine, valued at an estimated $64.5 million, in Florida. The operation, conducted by the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Diligence, took place earlier this week in the western Caribbean Sea. This seizure is part of a broader effort by the Joint Interagency Task Force–South (JITF-S) to combat narco-terrorism and secure U.S. maritime borders. Commander Colin McKee highlighted the importance of this joint effort, stating that it prevented over four tons of illegal drugs from entering the United States. The Diligence, deployed in the Southeast area of responsibility, has intercepted more than 10,000 pounds of illicit narcotics in recent operations. The recent offload included two major interdictions: one on August 7, where 1,500 pounds of marijuana were seized from a suspicious vessel near Jamaica, and another on September 6, where over 8,700 pounds of cocaine were confiscated from a vessel north of Panama. The contraband was transferred to case agents in St. Petersburg, marking a significant milestone in the Coast Guard’s ongoing mission to control and defend U.S. borders.