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标签： Jamaica

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  • Police urge motorists to exercise vigilance in management and safekeeping of vehicles

    Police urge motorists to exercise vigilance in management and safekeeping of vehicles

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have issued a stark advisory to vehicle owners, emphasizing critical security lapses that criminals are exploiting across the nation. Dr. Gary McKenzie, Assistant Commissioner of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), highlighted alarming trends in vehicle-related crimes during a recent briefing.

    McKenzie, who oversees the Strategic Operations Portfolio and Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, identified irresponsible vehicle lending as a primary concern. He revealed that numerous owners lend automobiles to unvetted individuals without verifying driver’s license credentials or borrower reliability. These negligently loaned vehicles frequently become instruments in illegal activities, including unauthorized taxi operations and rental scams.

    The senior police official further cautioned against improper vehicle handling at service facilities. Many Jamaicans leave cars at wash stations or garages without explicit instructions prohibiting movement, creating opportunities for key duplication and alarm system tampering. McKenzie specifically warned that organized criminals are capitalizing on these security gaps to steal vehicles through sophisticated methods.

    In a disturbing development, authorities have uncovered fraudulent sales operations where thieves advertise non-existent vehicles online, then steal matching models to fulfill purchase agreements. This sophisticated scheme has contributed significantly to Jamaica’s auto theft epidemic.

    In response, the JCF’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Division has intensified operations against automotive crime networks. Acting Senior Superintendent Victor Barrett confirmed targeted investigations into suspected criminal rings and complicit car marts, with several perpetrators already under police surveillance.

  • BOJ: banks can weather Melissa and keep credit flowing

    BOJ: banks can weather Melissa and keep credit flowing

    The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) projects a significant rise in bank loan defaults over the coming year as Hurricane Melissa’s economic repercussions intensify. Despite anticipating a near doubling of non-performing loans from the current 2.7% of total loans, central bank authorities assert the financial system remains robust and adequately prepared to withstand the shock.

    Governor Richard Byles, addressing attendees at the BOJ’s quarterly monetary policy conference, emphasized that Jamaica’s banking sector entered this period of economic distress from a position of notable strength. While acknowledging that credit conditions will naturally tighten during reconstruction efforts, Byles highlighted the system’s substantial capital buffers and conservative risk management practices as key stabilizing factors.

    Deputy Governor Dr. Jide Lewis provided detailed analysis, indicating that credit quality deterioration will likely unfold over the next four to five quarters. This anticipated increase in defaults, while substantial, would remain comfortably below the 10% threshold that typically triggers supervisory concern. Even if non-performing loans double to approximately 6%, Lewis noted this would remain significantly beneath worrisome levels.

    The central bank’s confidence stems from several protective factors within Jamaica’s financial infrastructure. Banks currently maintain provisions covering nearly 100% of existing non-performing loans, effectively pre-funding expected losses. Additionally, the system’s capital adequacy ratios stand at approximately 14.5% – 4.5 percentage points above regulatory requirements – providing substantial loss-absorption capacity.

    Dr. Lewis emphasized that profitability preceding the hurricane, combined with existing provisions and capital buffers, positions banks to manage increased defaults while maintaining normal operations. This financial resilience enables lenders to continue providing crucial credit to households and businesses during reconstruction rather than retreating from lending activities.

    The BOJ’s assessment comes as Jamaica enters a critical rebuilding phase requiring sustained financing for household repairs, mortgage adjustments, business restarts, and construction projects. While near-term economic contraction is expected, the banking system’s ability to act counter-cyclically – supporting economic activity during distress rather than amplifying downturn through credit restriction – represents a crucial stabilizing factor for national recovery.

    Despite this confidence, the central bank maintains vigilant monitoring of loan performance across institutions and sectors, particularly those most affected by Hurricane Melissa, ensuring ongoing assessment of the financial system’s capacity to navigate the challenging recovery period.

  • Beyond the Classroom: Community clean-up project brings hope and healing to Logwood, Black River

    Beyond the Classroom: Community clean-up project brings hope and healing to Logwood, Black River

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the community of Logwood in St. Elizabeth witnessed an extraordinary display of unity as residents joined corporate volunteers for a comprehensive clean-up initiative. The collaborative project, branded as “Beyond the Classroom – Adopting a Community,” was orchestrated by the YeCats Mobile Classroom organization alongside Matthews and Clarke Limited, with additional support from A One Equipment and Rentals, Juici Patties, and Impact Multimedia.

    The hurricane’s aftermath had left dangerous debris scattered throughout public spaces, creating hazardous conditions that demanded immediate attention. Volunteers from various organizations worked shoulder-to-shoulder with local residents, including children, to systematically clear the accumulated waste. The effort transcended mere physical cleaning, evolving into a powerful demonstration of community solidarity.

    Corporate leadership played a remarkably hands-on role in the operation. Jeff Larmound, CEO of A One Equipment and Rentals, personally operated garbage trucks to transport waste to disposal sites. “This isn’t merely about equipment—it’s about people,” Larmound emphasized. “When communities undertake rebuilding, leadership must physically show up, not just delegate support.”

    Similarly, representatives from Matthews and Clarke Limited participated directly in the labor-intensive work. Company members joined the heavy-lifting teams while other volunteers—described affectionately as the “dainty girls”—demonstrated exceptional determination in raking, shoveling, and packaging debris. One volunteer observed, “Working alongside residents and children reinforced that Jamaica’s reconstruction begins with fundamental acts of service.”

    According to Sandie Saunders, Marketing Manager at Matthews and Clarke Limited, the initiative reflects the company’s profound commitment to holistic community development. “‘Beyond the Classroom’ embodies our corporate identity. Education, environmental stewardship, and empowerment are interconnected, and we take pride in supporting YeCats and the Logwood community,” Saunders stated.

    The clean-up effort generated profound emotional resonance within the community. Charmine, a local resident, expressed, “This transcended mere cleaning. It demonstrated that we haven’t been forgotten.” Children participating in the effort shared similar sentiments, with one student joyfully noting, “I’m happy to help clean my community. It looks much nicer now.”

    The initiative reached its emotional peak when Matthews and Clarke Limited presented volunteer teacher Natasha Headley with a commitment letter pledging $5 million for roof repairs to her hurricane-damaged home. Headley, among the first volunteers supporting the YeCats Mobile Classroom, expressed overwhelmed gratitude: “I never anticipated that while serving others, assistance would return to me. This signifies everything—not just for me, but for my family and community.”

    The project concluded with an appreciation celebration for 35 registered students and four volunteers, hosted by a Matthews and Clarke contractor alongside Wake Up Jamaica and the Essena Family. The event featured food, music, and gifts, transforming the community center into a vibrant space of joy and recognition. Special “Purr-fect Attendance” awards were presented to Kaira (5) from the Kittens Classroom and Leo-Jordan (10) from the Lions Classroom, highlighting the program’s emphasis on consistency and commitment.

    Stacey Robinson, Founder and Literacy Coach of YeCats, articulated the philosophical foundation underlying the initiative: “Education cannot exist in isolation. It must be lived, not merely taught. ‘Beyond the Classroom’ enables children to comprehend teamwork, responsibility, and community pride. Our message is straightforward: It’s not just READING…It’s LIFE.”

    The clean-up project constitutes an integral component of the broader YeCats Mobile Classroom Initiative, delivering literacy, numeracy, and life skills education to communities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Each location benefits from structured community restoration efforts, reinforcing YeCats’ conviction that authentic learning must extend beyond conventional textbooks.

  • CAC 2000 exits retail storefronts in cost-cutting move

    CAC 2000 exits retail storefronts in cost-cutting move

    Jamaican air conditioning specialist CAC 2000 Limited has strategically withdrawn from its consumer retail operations, closing both Montego Bay and Kingston locations as part of a comprehensive cost-reduction initiative. The 25-year-old company, facing significant working capital constraints, is returning to its core expertise in large-scale commercial and government projects.

    The Montego Bay outlet ceased operations October 1, followed by the Village Plaza location in Kingston on December 1. Company leadership emphasized these closures represent a necessary operational streamlining rather than a strategic pivot, with expectations of minimal financial impact.

    This retrenchment follows concerning financial performance. For the quarter ending July 31, 2025, CAC 2000 reported a $29.7 million net loss, accumulating to $73.9 million year-to-date despite improved operating cash flow of $51.9 million. Quarterly revenue declined dramatically to $222.1 million from $307.3 million year-over-year, reflecting reduced activity outside major projects.

    CEO Gia Abraham revealed to the Jamaica Observer that delayed collections from a specific client segment have created severe liquidity pressure. “We are having cash-flow issues mainly because a particular customer segment comprises substantial receivables, creating negative business impact,” Abraham stated. “We must take necessary measures to preserve operations.”

    The company’s trade receivables ballooned to $869.6 million as of July 31, up from $628.9 million a year earlier, indicating severe collection challenges.

    Despite retail closures, CAC 2000 maintains its commercial headquarters at 231 Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston and continues service operations in Montego Bay. The company’s brief retail experiment, launched in 2023 with the Village Plaza opening followed by Montego Bay, was intentionally designed with minimal investment due to management’s awareness that retail fell outside their core competencies.

    Abraham indicated future consumer engagement would likely occur through digital channels or existing commercial partnerships rather than physical stores. Current priorities include stabilizing cash inflows and ensuring execution of major projects, particularly an extensive energy-efficiency contract with the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport involving solar installation and AC retrofitting across 22 government institutions, including 16 hospitals.

    “We maintain a healthy project portfolio but face challenges,” Abraham acknowledged. “This represents returning to fundamentals—taking strategic steps backward to enable future advancement.”

  • Holness thanks China for support after Hurricane Melissa

    Holness thanks China for support after Hurricane Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has publicly acknowledged the substantial assistance provided by the People’s Republic of China to Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path across the island nation. The recognition came during an official ceremony held at the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) headquarters on Tuesday, where China donated ten tipper trucks valued at approximately $200 million Jamaican dollars.

    Holness explicitly praised China’s multifaceted support system, stating, “The Chinese Government has been very good to us.” Beyond material donations for hurricane recovery, China deployed its naval hospital ship, the Silk Road Ark, which delivered crucial medical services to Jamaican citizens during an 11-day mission. The floating medical facility operated from three strategic locations: Montego Bay Cruise Pier, Port Royal Pier, and Falmouth Pier, ultimately performing 7,563 medical consultations and 715 surgical procedures.

    The Prime Minister, while admitting he couldn’t personally visit the medical mission, confirmed receiving impressive reports from government ministers about the operation’s effectiveness. The Chinese medical contingent further contributed by donating essential medicines to Jamaica’s public health system and conducting educational health lectures during their stay.

    Looking toward future disaster preparedness, Holness revealed that China has committed to providing heavy equipment for Jamaica’s National Clean-Up Programme, specifically targeting debris management through excavators, front-end loaders, and other machinery. This equipment will be technically owned by the National Works Agency but maintained within the Jamaica Defence Force’s engineering corps for rapid deployment during weather emergencies, particularly for addressing major landslides beyond private contractors’ capabilities.

    The strategic placement of resources demonstrates the Jamaican government’s commitment to enhancing national resilience against extreme weather events, with China’s support playing a pivotal role in strengthening the island’s disaster response infrastructure.

  • BOJ: Slow hurricane rebuilding risks higher inflation

    BOJ: Slow hurricane rebuilding risks higher inflation

    Jamaica’s economic recovery faces a critical challenge as the pace of post-hurricane reconstruction spending threatens to exacerbate inflationary pressures, according to the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ). Governor Richard Byles emphasized during Monday’s quarterly monetary policy conference that while substantial funding has been secured for rebuilding efforts, the nation’s historical inefficiencies in capital expenditure and procurement processes could significantly delay recovery.

    The central bank revealed that approximately $1 billion in official donations and relief contributions have been mobilized, with additional multilateral funding and insurance settlements anticipated. However, Governor Byles cautioned that these funds remain largely in planning stages due to procedural complexities. “If all this money sits in Jamaica and is not spent, it means that the recovery will be much slower,” Byles stated, highlighting the urgent need for efficient fund deployment.

    In response to these execution challenges, the Jamaican government established the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NARA). This statutory body, reporting directly to Prime Minister Andrew Holness, possesses special powers to streamline planning approvals and procurement processes. NARA’s mandate focuses on developing climate-resilient infrastructure, constructing safer housing, and implementing improved land-use planning strategies, though specific operational details remain under development.

    The economic implications of delayed spending are particularly concerning given the revised damage assessment of US$8.8 billion, equivalent to 40% of Jamaica’s GDP. The BOJ warns that reconstruction demands will inevitably strain construction services, materials, transport, and labor markets. In an import-dependent economy, supply constraints could trigger widespread price increases beyond the already evident spikes in food costs, home repairs, and personal services.

    Governor Byles expressed concern about emerging second-round inflationary effects, noting that without careful management, these price increases could become entrenched. The central bank has consequently maintained its policy rate at 5.75%, prioritizing inflation containment over near-term economic stimulus. This monetary stance aims to anchor inflation expectations and prevent temporary cost increases from becoming permanent features of Jamaica’s economic landscape.

    The BOJ remains committed to returning inflation to its 4-6% target range by early 2027, acknowledging that failure to control price stability would disproportionately affect Jamaica’s most vulnerable populations. The Monetary Policy Committee has pledged continuous monitoring of food price impacts on overall inflation and stands ready to adjust policy if recovery spending accelerates beyond current projections.

  • WATCH: Citizens commend St Elizabeth police

    WATCH: Citizens commend St Elizabeth police

    ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — The St Elizabeth Police Division, under the leadership of Superintendent Coleridge Minto, has received widespread commendation from community members for its exceptional outreach initiatives and enhanced security measures during the festive season. This praise emerged during a public walkthrough in Santa Cruz where citizens spontaneously approached the police chief to express their appreciation.

    The annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ program, designed to foster positive police-community relations, was particularly highlighted as a successful initiative that brought Christmas cheer to approximately 200 local children. Karen Jack, an educator at Pepper Primary, remarked, ‘Seeing Mr. Minto actively working alongside citizens brings us genuine happiness. His reputation as a dedicated officer precedes him wherever he goes.’

    Reverend Arthur Grant echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the transformed community perception of law enforcement: ‘Since the hurricane, we’ve consistently felt the police presence and their compassionate approach. We’re truly grateful for the service being provided.’

    In response to security concerns, Superintendent Minto outlined strategic deployments focusing on the commercial hubs of Santa Cruz and Junction. ‘Our officers will maintain continuous presence throughout the festive season to ensure safe shopping environments,’ Minto stated. ‘Due to Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Black River, we anticipate increased pedestrian traffic from western parish residents in these commercial districts.’

    The security strategy includes a substantial contingent of officers specifically assigned to Santa Cruz to maintain law and order. Local councillors Karl Whyte (Pedro Plains) and Christopher Williams (Santa Cruz division) jointly endorsed the police division’s community engagement efforts and security preparations.

  • Zelensky reveals US-Ukraine plan to end Russian war, key questions remain

    Zelensky reveals US-Ukraine plan to end Russian war, key questions remain

    KYIV, Ukraine — A newly revealed US-brokered draft proposal to resolve the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine indicates that Kyiv has secured several critical concessions in negotiations, though fundamental disagreements over territory and Moscow’s potential acceptance continue to pose significant obstacles.

    President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed details of the 20-point framework during an extensive briefing with journalists, presenting an annotated version of the document that has been jointly developed by American and Ukrainian negotiators. While acknowledging that certain elements of the plan remain unsatisfactory to Kyiv, Zelensky emphasized that Ukrainian diplomats successfully eliminated several initially problematic demands.

    The revised draft no longer contains immediate requirements for Ukraine’s complete military withdrawal from the Donetsk region or automatic recognition of Russian-occupied territories as sovereign Russian land. Perhaps most significantly, the proposal removes previous stipulations that would have compelled Ukraine to legally renounce its aspirations for NATO membership—a longstanding red line for Moscow.

    However, the blueprint appears to facilitate potential future troop redeployments and establishes mechanisms for creating demilitarized zones along current front lines. Specifically, the agreement would recognize the existing deployment positions in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions as the de facto line of contact, with working groups subsequently convening to determine necessary force movements and parameters for special economic zones.

    This structure suggests a compromise approach that postpones decisions on militarily and politically sensitive issues—including territorial withdrawals that Ukraine had previously resisted—while creating procedural pathways for continued dialogue. Zelensky characterized the negotiations as attempting to balance Russian demands for Ukrainian withdrawal with American efforts to devise mutually acceptable arrangements through demilitarized or special economic zones.

    The Kremlin has received the draft proposal for review, though analysts remain skeptical that Moscow would abandon its maximalist territorial objectives in eastern Ukraine. The emerging framework represents the most detailed diplomatic effort to date to outline a potential resolution to the conflict, yet its viability ultimately depends on Russia’s willingness to engage with terms that fall short of its original demands.

  • Jamaica Draughts Association crowns first female national champion, Dr Mishka Chung

    Jamaica Draughts Association crowns first female national champion, Dr Mishka Chung

    In a landmark moment for Jamaican sports, the Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) witnessed the coronation of its first-ever female national champion. Dr. Mishka Chung secured her historic victory by defeating Regina Stewart with a decisive 2-0 scoreline in the finals of the National Pool Checkers Championships, held at the Port Rhoades Sports Club in Discovery Bay, St. Ann.

    The tournament itself set significant participation records, becoming the second-largest gathering in the history of the JDA Nationals, only exceeded by the 2024 event. A particularly promising sign for the future of the sport was the unprecedented number of junior competitors, signaling a robust and growing interest in draughts among Jamaica’s younger generation. This surge is widely attributed to the JDA’s dedicated initiatives to promote the game and provide developmental opportunities for emerging talent.

    Beyond Chung’s groundbreaking achievement, the championships featured other notable milestones. Shaveir Jadoo was named Youth Champion, underscoring the nation’s promising pipeline of strategic gaming talent. These successes collectively highlight both the rising popularity of draughts and the JDA’s effective commitment to fostering critical and strategic thinking skills through the game.

    The Top Masters Division showcased intense competition, with International Grandmaster Wayne ‘Shines’ Reid capturing the top honor. He was followed by International Master Courtney ‘Carlos’ Thompson and Top Master Jason ‘School Boy’ Wisdom. Last year’s titleholder, Federation Master Jermaine ‘Wasp’ Hutchinson, put up a strong defense to finish in a respectable fourth place.

    Looking ahead, the JDA has announced plans to host Jamaica’s inaugural Draughts 100 (10×10 International Draughts) national trials in March 2026. This event represents a major expansion for the sport within the country. The top performers from these trials will earn the right to represent Jamaica at the prestigious Pan American Championships scheduled for April 2026 in Paramaribo, Suriname.

  • Festive lights, security tight for Christmas in Damascus

    Festive lights, security tight for Christmas in Damascus

    DAMASCUS, Syria — The historic lanes of Damascus’s Old City are adorned with festive Christmas illuminations, yet the seasonal cheer is markedly tempered by a heavy security presence. Government patrols move through the shadows, a stark reminder of the pervasive anxiety haunting Syria’s Christian minority as they attempt to observe their holidays.

    The memory of a devastating June assault on the Saint Elias church, which resulted in 25 fatalities and numerous injuries following a shooting and suicide bombing, remains acutely fresh for the community. This incident has instilled a climate of caution, with residents opting for earlier curfews and subdued festivities.

    Tala Shamoun, a 26-year-old university student, expressed the collective apprehension to AFP while visiting a Christmas market. She noted a rise in criminal activities like robberies and kidnappings in Damascus but identified the church attack as the most profound tragedy.

    While Syrian authorities attributed the June violence to the Islamic State jihadist network, a lesser-known Sunni Muslim extremist faction also claimed responsibility. This occurs against a complex backdrop where Islamist factions that displaced ruler Bashar al-Assad have publicly recommitted to a doctrine of interfaith coexistence and inclusive governance. Nonetheless, the year has also witnessed severe sectarian violence, including massacres in the Alawite region and significant clashes in Druze-dominated southern areas.

    In response, a multi-layered security strategy has been enacted. Interior Ministry forces are conducting stops and searches on pedestrians and motorcyclists throughout the Old City. An anonymous security officer, stationed at a key entrance with a communication device and deployment map, outlined the state’s protective mandate, emphasizing the duty to safeguard all citizens—Christian and Muslim alike—and to secure places of worship during celebrations.

    The narrative of protection is central to Assad’s longstanding political posture, which has positioned him as a guardian for religious minorities who have frequently been targeted throughout the nation’s prolonged conflict. The demographic impact has been severe; Syria’s Christian population is estimated to have plummeted from approximately one million at the war’s onset in 2011 to roughly 300,000 today, due to widespread emigration.

    Despite the underlying tensions, efforts to foster normalcy are visible. Shopfronts and trees in the Old City are decorated with red baubles and festive trimmings, and street vendors offer warm chestnuts. Complementing official security measures, unarmed civilian committees comprising local Christians, coordinated with state forces, have been mobilized to guard churches. Fuad Farhat, a 55-year-old coordinator from Bab Touma district, reported that these additional measures are helping to alleviate public fear, making residents feel secure enough to participate in the holiday atmosphere.

    This glimmer of hope was echoed by Loris Aasaf, a 20-year-old student, who voiced a desire for joy and a renewed future for Syria, aspiring for a return to the era when all sects celebrated together, paving the way for national reconstruction.