In a critical match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Jamaica’s national football team, the Reggae Boyz, suffered a 2-0 defeat against Curacao at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad. This loss has complicated their path to qualification, with Curacao now leading Group B in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers. Despite a valiant effort, Jamaica’s Head Coach Steve McClaren acknowledged the challenges his team faced, particularly in the midfield, where Curacao dominated. Livano Comenencia and Kenji Gorre scored decisive goals in the 14th and 68th minutes, respectively, sealing Jamaica’s fate. McClaren emphasized that qualification was always going to be a tight race, urging his team to regroup and focus on their upcoming match against Bermuda. Jamaica’s position in the group has slipped to second place, with Curacao now holding a one-point advantage. The Reggae Boyz must secure victories in their remaining matches to keep their World Cup dreams alive, with the final group standings likely to be decided in November. McClaren remains optimistic, stressing the importance of resilience and preparation as the team navigates this crucial phase of the qualifiers.
标签： Jamaica
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WATCH: Jamaica reaffirms strong partnership with Spain
On Thursday, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, emphasized the robust and enduring relationship between Jamaica and Spain. Highlighting Spain’s significant contributions to Jamaica’s economic aspirations, Johnson Smith pointed to the tourism sector as a prime example of this collaboration. Spanish investments in Jamaica’s tourism industry have exceeded US$2.5 billion, with notable projects such as the Grand Palladium Hotel in Hanover, which commenced construction in February. This development will introduce 950 new hotel rooms and provide housing for 550 staff members, further enhancing Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure. Additionally, in January, both nations finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for International Cooperation on Tourism, aimed at fostering collaboration in gastronomy, human capital development, and resilience. Johnson Smith remarked, ‘The expansion of Spain’s economic cooperation underscores its confidence in Jamaica as a prime investment destination,’ during her speech at the Spain National Day reception held at the Spanish ambassador’s residence in St Andrew. Spanish Ambassador José María Fernández López de Turiso echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that trade and investment remain central to Spain’s bilateral relations with Jamaica. He noted, ‘As the fastest-growing economy in the Eurozone, Spain’s growth positively impacts Jamaica through substantial investments. For yet another consecutive year, Spain has solidified its position as one of Jamaica’s largest investors, particularly in the tourism sector.’ Diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Spain were established in December 1966, and over the past decade, their partnership has deepened significantly. Beyond tourism, the two nations collaborate in education, particularly in promoting Spanish language training, as well as in sports, agriculture, and health.
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Greed on the Rocks
Little Dunn’s River, a public beach in Ocho Rios, St Ann, has once again become a hotspot for illegal profiteering, with individuals charging Jamaicans for access to what is supposed to be a free facility. Despite being officially open only on Sundays, the beach was found to be fully operational on a recent Wednesday visit by the Jamaica Observer. A self-proclaimed caretaker at a side entrance demanded $300 for entry, claiming the main gate was closed. This unauthorized fee was justified by the man, who asserted that he and his associates maintain the property, purchasing supplies and cleaning facilities. However, the beach is owned and managed by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), making such charges illegal. This issue is not new; in 2022, the beach was shut down after a fatal shooting linked to a criminal network extorting visitors. Member of Parliament Matthew Samuda condemned the illegal activities, emphasizing that Little Dunn’s River is a free public beach under UDC supervision. He revealed that security measures have been initiated, including police involvement and arrests. Samuda also highlighted the government’s commitment to providing free beach access and shared that a $170-million upgrade plan for the beach is underway. While the beach is currently open only on weekends due to resource constraints, the government aims to balance accessibility and security. Samuda stressed that unscrupulous individuals blocking access will be forcefully removed, as they are not legitimate custodians but criminals. The issue has sparked protests, with advocacy groups demanding seven-day access and asserting historical rights to the land. The government’s beach access policy, nearing completion, seeks to address these concerns while ensuring public safety and enjoyment.
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Allan ‘Skill’ Cole honoured with star-studded musical farewell
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The life and legacy of Allan ‘Skill’ Cole, a revered figure in Jamaican football and music, were celebrated at a heartfelt Thanksgiving service held at the National Arena on October 11. Cole, who passed away on September 9 at the age of 74, was not only a football prodigy but also a pivotal figure in the music industry, most notably as the manager of Bob Marley and The Wailers. His profound influence on both fields was evident in the outpouring of tributes from prominent musicians and artists. The service featured performances by the Binghistra Movement, Denzil ‘Dipstick’ Williams, Leroy Sibbles, Bongo Herman, Dean Fraser, Tarrus Riley, Luciano, Beenie Man, Junior Reid, and Stephen Marley, Bob Marley’s son. Marcia Griffiths, a member of The I Three harmony group, emphasized the importance of attending, stating, ‘Allan is a part of my history and journey, so I had to be here to pay my respect.’ Sangie Davis, a singer-songwriter and elder in the Twelve Tribes of Israel, the Rastafarian organization Cole was part of for over 50 years, shared personal memories of their bond. ‘Allan was a mediator between people. Just like how he could score a goal but chose to pass the ball, he passed opportunities to me,’ Davis recalled. Cole’s impact extended beyond music; he was a symbol of social awareness in Jamaica during the 1960s and 1970s, embracing Rastafari through the teachings of Mortimo Planno. His final role as Bob Marley’s manager during the 1980 U.S. tour cemented his place in music history. The service was attended by notable figures, including Judy Mowatt, Olivia Grange, Mark Golding, and music producers Mikey Bennett and Trevor ‘Leggo’ Douglas, all of whom honored Cole’s enduring legacy.
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Chicken-and-egg situation
The relationship between marijuana use and mental health disorders, particularly schizophrenia, has been brought into sharp focus by Dr. Kristen Robinson-Barrett, a consultant psychiatrist and director of treatment services at Jamaica’s National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA). According to Dr. Robinson-Barrett, marijuana can activate an individual’s genetic predisposition to schizophrenia, a condition that, once triggered, cannot be reversed. This revelation adds a sobering layer to the viral comment by Jamaican dancehall artist Pablo YG: “Yuh see weh yuh did do, cyaa rub out” (You see what you did, it can’t be undone).
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Sharon Gordon’s Sheribaby earns Grammy consideration for Best Audiobook
Sharon Gordon’s debut book, ‘Sheribaby,’ has been shortlisted for consideration in the Best Audiobook, Storytelling, and Recording category at the 2026 Grammy Awards. The provisional lists for the prestigious awards were unveiled by the Recording Academy on October 3, with official nominees set to be announced on November 7. The 68th Grammy Awards ceremony will take place on February 1 in Los Angeles. ‘Sheribaby,’ written in Jamaican patois, chronicles the life of its titular character from 1969 to 1975 in Rollington Town, a middle-class neighborhood in East Kingston. The book has garnered widespread acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Jamaican culture and its universal resonance. In an interview with Observer Online, Gordon expressed her pride in the recognition, highlighting the book’s ability to connect with readers on multiple levels. She noted that many Jamaicans in the diaspora have described ‘Sheribaby’ as a nostalgic time capsule, evoking personal memories and cultural identity. Gordon’s decision to write in patois was a tribute to Louise ‘Miss Lou’ Bennett-Coverley, a legendary Jamaican folklorist and actress who advocated for the use of Jamaican dialect during British rule. Despite initial criticism, Gordon remained steadfast in her commitment to authenticity, a choice that has cemented ‘Sheribaby’ as a modern classic. The New York-based author, who has lived in the U.S. for over 45 years, has held book signings in New York, Florida, New Jersey, Toronto, and Maryland, further amplifying the book’s reach.
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JCF ready to lend support in mental health crisis
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, is actively supporting individuals facing mental health challenges. Senior Superintendent of Police Dahlia Garrick, head of the Constabulary Communications Network (CCN), has urged the public to utilize these services, especially when encountering individuals displaying aggressive behavior or requiring urgent mental health treatment. This initiative aligns with Jamaica’s Mental Health Act, which empowers police officers to assist those exhibiting signs of mental illness. Under Section 15 of the Act, officers can take individuals in public spaces who appear mentally disordered to psychiatric facilities without a warrant, ensuring they receive timely care. Additionally, officers are required to submit a written report to the Mental Health Review Board within 30 days of such interventions. Garrick emphasized the importance of reducing stigma around mental illness, encouraging Jamaicans to support and refer individuals in need. She highlighted that police officers frequently encounter individuals with conditions like Alzheimer’s, dementia, and schizophrenia, often found wandering but non-aggressive. While most interactions are smooth, some cases have ended tragically, with 10 fatal shootings and 11 non-fatal encounters reported last year. Garrick stressed that excessive force is only used as a last resort to prevent greater harm. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton acknowledged the collaboration between the JCF and community mental health officers, noting the challenges of reintegrating treated individuals into society without institutionalization. Dr. Kevin Goulbourne, Director of Mental Health and Substance Use, revealed plans to formalize protocols for police interactions with mentally ill individuals. The public is encouraged to contact the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline or the police for assistance in such cases.
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Close ties between Jamaica and Japan forged by Blue Mountain Coffee says outgoing Ambassador
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s outgoing ambassador to Japan, H.E. Shorna-Kay Richards, has extended heartfelt gratitude to the Association of Japanese Importers of Jamaican Coffee (AJIJC) and its chairman, Tatsushi Ueshima, for their steadfast dedication to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee trade. Speaking at a recent reception during the Joint JCEA/JACRA Meeting with the AJIJC at Tokyo’s Big Sight Convention Centre, Ambassador Richards highlighted the association’s “generosity and unwavering commitment” to the industry. She emphasized the pivotal role the AJIJC has played in fostering the development of Jamaica’s coffee sector over the past seven decades, describing it as a “pillar of support and a true partner.”
Ambassador Richards, whose tenure was extended by six months beyond its original June 2023 end date, acknowledged the AJIJC’s innovative marketing strategies through its Promotional Committee. These efforts have introduced Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee to younger Japanese consumers, ensuring its continued relevance in a competitive market. Notable initiatives included distributing 2,000 packets of the premium coffee at Tokyo’s Yushima Tenjin Shrine to students preparing for university entrance exams and showcasing the brew at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.
Richards also commended Dr. Norman Grant, Chairman of the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association, for his visionary leadership in maintaining the global excellence of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee. Dr. Grant, whose recent doctoral dissertation focused on strategies for profitability among Jamaican coffee farmers, reciprocated by praising Richards for her instrumental role in promoting the trade in Japan. He highlighted her efforts in organizing trade shows, fostering industry collaboration, and facilitating the distribution of 10,000 coffee seedlings donated by 7/11 to Jamaican farmers.
In recognition of her contributions, Dr. Grant and Mr. Ueshima presented Ambassador Richards with a plaque of appreciation, honoring her service to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee industry and the strengthening of bilateral ties between Jamaica and Japan.
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Queen Shelly
Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce was celebrated in grand style on Friday at the first-ever ATHLOS event, held at Icahn Stadium in New York. The occasion marked a tribute to her illustrious 18-year career, which she recently concluded. Fraser-Pryce, a guest of honor at the women-only professional track and field gathering, was lauded for her unparalleled contributions to the sport. In a heartfelt social media post, ATHLOS hailed her as an ‘icon of the sport,’ honoring her ‘lifetime of speed, excellence, and legacy.’ Adding to the grandeur, American tennis superstar Serena Williams crowned Fraser-Pryce with a bespoke tiara crafted by the renowned luxury jeweler Tiffany & Company, symbolizing her regal status in athletics.
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At least 37 dead in Mexico floods
Mexico is grappling with a catastrophic flood crisis as torrential rains have claimed at least 37 lives and caused widespread destruction across the nation. The federal government reported on Saturday that intense rainfall has affected 31 out of 32 states, leading to overflowing rivers, submerged villages, landslides, and collapsed infrastructure. The central state of Hidalgo has borne the brunt of the disaster, with 22 fatalities, 1,000 damaged homes, and 90 communities cut off from rescue operations. Neighboring Puebla state has recorded nine deaths, while Veracruz and Queretaro have reported five and one fatality, respectively. Over 80,000 individuals in Puebla alone have been impacted by the extreme weather. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on X that thousands of troops, alongside boats, planes, and helicopters, have been mobilized to assist in rescue and recovery efforts. More than 5,400 military personnel have been deployed to distribute aid and restore essential services. Shelters have been established to accommodate those displaced by the floods. The Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range, home to numerous small communities, has emerged as the epicenter of the disaster, with many areas rendered inaccessible due to landslides. Meteorologist Isidro Cano attributed the heavy rainfall to a seasonal shift and cloud formation driven by warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico, compounded by a cold front from the north. Authorities are also monitoring Tropical Storm Raymond and the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla, which have caused additional damage in western states. Raymond is expected to weaken to a tropical depression by Sunday as it approaches southern Baja California.