KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has issued a tropical storm watch as Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to intensify into a hurricane by Friday. Evan Thompson, the Director of the Meteorological Service, announced during a special press briefing on Wednesday that the island will begin experiencing the storm’s effects as early as Thursday.
标签： Jamaica
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Hydel edge KC, Charlie stun George’s as Manning Cup second round kicks off
The ISSA Wata Manning Cup second round commenced with a series of thrilling matches on Wednesday, delivering unexpected outcomes and shifting the dynamics of the competition. Defending champions Kingston College (KC) faced a shocking 0-1 defeat at the hands of Hydel High, marking their first loss of the season. The decisive moment came from Abraham Joseph, whose goal secured the victory for the St Catherine-based team. This result propelled Hydel to three points in Group 2, level with Calabar High, who dominated Campion College with a 4-1 win, but trailing on goal difference. Meanwhile, Charlie Smith High delivered a stunning performance, overcoming St George’s College 4-2 at Stadium East, catapulting them to the top of Group 3. In the same group, St Catherine High and Vauxhall High settled for a 0-0 draw, each earning a point. Excelsior High demonstrated their prowess with a commanding 3-0 victory over Wolmer’s Boys, taking the lead in Group 1 on goal difference ahead of St Andrew Technical High (STATHS), who narrowly defeated Tivoli Gardens High 1-0. In Group 4, Mona High asserted their dominance with a 4-1 triumph over St Jago High, while Jamaica College and Eltham High shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw. Mona now leads the group with three points, two ahead of Jamaica College and Eltham High.
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JBDC sensitises MSMEs about financial red flags to prevent bankruptcy
Amid escalating operational costs and tightening cash flows, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) has issued a critical warning to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Jamaica. The agency emphasized the importance of recognizing and addressing early signs of financial distress to avert bankruptcy. This advice was highlighted during the JBDC’s recent Virtual Biz Zone webinar, titled ‘Debt Alarm: Identifying the Signs of Financial Distress,’ which was conducted in partnership with the Office of the Government Trustee (OGT). The session aimed to equip entrepreneurs with actionable strategies to detect and mitigate financial vulnerabilities before they escalate into business collapse.
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UNDP announces new round of climate action grants for Bahamas
NASSAU, Bahamas – In a significant move to bolster climate resilience, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced that Bahamian organizations and academic institutions can now apply for climate action grants under the latest funding cycle of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP). Dr. Kishan Khoday, UNDP Resident Representative, revealed that this initiative marks the first time the GEF SGP has deepened its global partnership with the UNDP, which now serves as both the executing and implementing agency for the programme worldwide.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Portmore mayor taking precautionary measures to combat flooding
ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — Portmore Mayor Leon Thompson has reassured residents that drain cleaning operations, which commenced as early as April, are continuing in full swing as the municipality braces for Tropical Storm Melissa. In a statement to Observer Online on Tuesday, Thompson emphasized that equipment is on standby to address potential major flooding, ensuring swift removal of any blockages if necessary.
Thompson highlighted that assessments have identified illegal constructions on drain reservations and walls as significant contributors to recurrent severe flooding in certain areas, particularly the Edgewater community. He specifically pointed out Michelle Crescent, where residents have extended their properties beyond legal boundaries, encroaching on critical drainage infrastructure.
‘Residents have built beyond their property lines, constructing on drain reservations and even on existing drain walls,’ Thompson explained. ‘This has led to the collapse of many drains, obstructing water flow and causing persistent flooding in Edgewater.’
To address these issues, the municipal council has initiated corrective measures, including issuing enforcement notices to violators and maintaining routine drain cleaning. ‘We are systematically serving notices in these communities to ensure compliance,’ Thompson stated. The mayor’s proactive approach aims to mitigate flood risks and safeguard residents as the storm season intensifies.
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CGC tightens oversight as Jamaica prepares to open first casino
Jamaica is gearing up to inaugurate its first casino, located at the Princess Grand Jamaica Hotel in Hanover, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s economic transformation. The Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) is spearheading efforts to establish Jamaica as a regional leader in integrity, transparency, and investor confidence through a robust regulatory framework. This initiative aligns with international best practices and aims to ensure the sustainable growth of the casino gaming industry.
Cleveland Allen, CEO of the CGC, emphasized the commission’s commitment to building a foundation rooted in accountability and respect for the law. ‘Our primary responsibility is to create systems that protect investors, operators, employees, and the public while ensuring transparent and fair financial management,’ he stated.
In recent months, the CGC has accelerated its regulatory evolution by modernizing licensing, monitoring, and compliance systems. Advanced digital tools have been adopted to enhance due diligence and operational transparency. A pivotal aspect of this effort is the strategic partnership with the Financial Investigations Division (FID), formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This collaboration aims to detect and disrupt illicit financial activities, particularly money laundering risks associated with casino operations.
Dennis Chung, chief technical director at the FID, highlighted the significance of the MOU, stating, ‘This agreement strengthens our ability to identify and disrupt illicit financial flows, safeguarding the integrity of Jamaica’s financial system.’
The CGC’s initiatives are closely aligned with Jamaica’s broader tourism investment strategy, which focuses on attracting high-value visitors and promoting luxury resort developments with strong local linkages. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett underscored the role of casino gaming as a new frontier in Jamaica’s tourism development, emphasizing the importance of responsible expansion and sustainable growth.
In addition to regulatory oversight, the CGC is placing a strong emphasis on responsible gaming and public education. Allen reiterated the commission’s commitment to fostering an informed public that understands the opportunities and responsibilities associated with casino gaming. ‘We aim to ensure that the industry grows safely and inclusively, benefiting all stakeholders,’ he added.
The Princess Grande Jamaica resort in Green Island, Hanover, will host the country’s first casino, setting the stage for a new era in Jamaica’s economic and tourism landscape.
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Over 800 shelters inspected as Jamaica braces for Tropical Storm Melissa —McKenzie
Jamaica is bracing for the potential impact of Tropical Storm Melissa, with comprehensive preparations underway to safeguard its citizens. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, announced during a press briefing on Wednesday that the country’s 881 emergency shelters have been inspected and are ready for use. Relief supplies have been strategically positioned across the island, and emergency teams are on standby to assist high-risk communities. McKenzie highlighted specific areas of concern, including Rocky Point in Clarendon, Taylor Land in the east, Duhaney Park, New Haven, Berger Gully, and McGregor Gully. Over 1,000 sandbags have already been deployed in east Kingston following assessments by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and other agencies. The minister urged residents to stay informed through weather bulletins and follow official instructions. He also emphasized the importance of bringing only essential items, such as medication, to shelters. A special appeal was made to the residents of Port Royal, who have historically been reluctant to comply with evacuation plans. McKenzie plans to engage with local MP Phillip Paulwell to address this issue. Meanwhile, Evan Thompson, Director of the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, warned that Tropical Storm Melissa could intensify into a hurricane by Friday, with its effects expected to reach the island by Thursday.
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Bahamas gov’t to use dormant accounts to fund disaster emergencies
The Bahamas Government has introduced a groundbreaking legislative proposal aimed at reallocating funds from dormant accounts to the Disaster Emergency Fund. This initiative seeks to enhance the nation’s resilience and recovery capabilities in the face of increasingly frequent and severe storms. Prime Minister Phillip Davis emphasized the necessity of proactive disaster preparedness, stating that the government’s previous reactive approach had left the country ill-equipped for events like Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The proposed resolution authorizes the transfer of US$17 million from dormant accounts, which are currently part of the Consolidated Fund, to the Disaster Emergency Fund. These unclaimed resources will now serve a critical national purpose, providing immediate financial support during disasters without reliance on external funding. The government is also developing stringent regulations to ensure transparent and efficient management of these funds, outlining their permissible uses, investment strategies, and activation protocols. The establishment of the Disaster Risk Management Authority (DRMA) marks a significant shift towards risk reduction, mitigation, and preparedness. Prime Minister Davis highlighted that this new strategy, supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), could reduce potential disaster-related losses by 45% over the next decade, thereby improving fiscal resilience. The resolution aligns with the Disaster Risk Management Act, 2022, which mandates the maintenance of the Disaster Emergency Fund to finance response, rehabilitation, and recovery efforts. By capitalizing this fund, the Bahamas aims to build a stronger, more resilient nation capable of withstanding and recovering from natural disasters.
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GK eyes digital growth through Bill Express Whatsapp Pay
GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS) has introduced a groundbreaking payment feature through its Bill Express brand, enabling customers to pay bills directly via WhatsApp. This innovative service, named WhatsApp Pay, allows users to manage their financial obligations from anywhere in the world, leveraging the widespread use of WhatsApp as Jamaica’s most popular instant messaging platform. The company emphasized that this move aligns with the growing demand for convenient digital channels and is part of its broader strategy to modernize customer financial management. WhatsApp Pay operates through a designated number, guiding users through a simple, secure, and private payment process. With a transaction fee of $55—lower than in-store rates—the service offers a cost-effective alternative for bill payments and mobile credit top-ups. Since its launch, GKMS has reported encouraging early adoption, with steady growth in transaction volumes and inquiries. The company anticipates increased usage, particularly among younger, tech-savvy users who prefer digital interactions. WhatsApp Pay also targets the Diaspora market, enabling seamless cross-border payments supported by local and international debit or credit cards. Security remains a top priority, with the platform employing encryption, multi-factor authentication, and real-time monitoring to safeguard customer data, ensuring compliance with local and international standards. Developed through a collaboration between GraceKennedy’s internal team and an external provider, WhatsApp Pay reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric digital solutions. While GKMS did not disclose specific transaction figures, it clarified that the service is part of a long-term digital transformation strategy focused on enhancing customer engagement rather than short-term profitability. ‘WhatsApp Pay was designed to deliver innovation and convenience, and we are confident it will strengthen our position in the digital payments landscape,’ the company stated.
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Schools urged to prepare to go online
KINGSTON, Jamaica—In anticipation of Tropical Storm Melissa’s potential impact this weekend, Education Minister Dana Morris Dixon has called on schools across the nation to prepare for a transition to online learning. Speaking at a special press briefing on Wednesday, Morris Dixon emphasized the dual role of schools as educational institutions and emergency shelters. She revealed that 798 of Jamaica’s 881 designated national shelters are schools, highlighting their critical function during natural disasters.