In a surprising turn of events, Hollywood icon Nicole Kidman and country music sensation Keith Urban have reportedly ended their 19-year marriage, as per US media outlets. The couple, who exchanged vows in 2006 and share two teenage daughters, have been living separately since the onset of summer. Sources close to the situation reveal that Kidman, 58, was reluctant to part ways and made efforts to salvage the relationship. Meanwhile, Urban, 57, has relocated from their Nashville family home to a new residence within the city. The news was first reported by entertainment platform TMZ, though AFP has yet to independently verify the separation. Kidman, an Academy Award-winning actress, has been described as the pillar holding the family together during this challenging period. She also has two adopted children from her previous marriage to actor Tom Cruise, which concluded in 2001. Despite the reported split, the couple appeared united on social media earlier this year, with Kidman sharing a heartfelt anniversary post in June and Urban celebrating their bond after his Academy of Country Music Awards triumph in May. Kidman, renowned for her transformative role in ‘The Hours,’ remains one of Hollywood’s most celebrated figures.
标签： Jamaica
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Johnson Smith dismisses ‘false’ allegations that Gov’t has been silent on Palestine
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, has firmly dismissed allegations from the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) accusing the Government of remaining silent on critical Middle East issues, particularly concerning Palestine. In a press release issued on Tuesday, Johnson Smith countered the PNP’s claims, emphasizing the Government’s proactive measures, including the historic recognition of the State of Palestine in 2023—a move unprecedented by any prior administration. She criticized the PNP’s approach as ‘image-focused and in-substantive,’ labeling their foreign policy tactics as disingenuous. The PNP had earlier condemned the Government for its perceived lack of solidarity with Palestinians during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Johnson Smith highlighted Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s remarks at the UNGA, where he expressed Jamaica’s horror at the humanitarian crisis in Palestinian territories and reiterated support for a diplomatic resolution, including a ceasefire and the release of hostages. She also underscored Jamaica’s condemnation of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to a two-state solution. Johnson Smith accused PNP Spokesperson Donna Scott Mottley of misrepresenting the Government’s stance, asserting that Jamaica’s position remains consistent with its previous statements and regional commitments.
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Fishers encouraged to share knowledge gained from safety at sea training
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) is urging participants of its Safety at Sea Training Programme to disseminate the knowledge they’ve acquired to fellow fishers within their communities. Launched in 2022 as part of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the initiative has already reached numerous fishers across the island, equipping them with essential maritime safety techniques. Shellene Berry, Senior Director of Extension Services for the NFA’s Capture Fisheries Branch, emphasized the programme’s profound impact, despite the seemingly modest number of direct participants. She highlighted the ‘trainer of trainers’ approach, encouraging beneficiaries to educate their peers, crew members, and broader fishing communities. Berry spoke at a recent JIS Think Tank event held at the agency’s television department in Kingston. The programme aims to bolster the resilience of fishers and safeguard the sustainability of Jamaica’s fisheries resources. Berry noted that the ripple effect of knowledge-sharing fosters behavioural change, ensuring that safety practices are not only communicated but also implemented. Kyle Shaw, a facilitator in the programme and head of the Caribbean Maritime University’s Department of Professional Training and Certification, reported that fishers have been highly receptive to new safety knowledge. Participants have been introduced to basic medical equipment, first aid practices, and legal responsibilities, including the law of tort. Shaw explained that boat owners and captains have gained a deeper understanding of their liabilities and the importance of proper crew equipment and safety protocols. The programme comprises two components: safety at sea training administered by the Caribbean Maritime University and scuba diving open water certification through the University of the West Indies Marine Lab. Interested individuals can contact the NFA at 876-948-9014 for details on accessing the programme in their parish.
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Caricom agriculture ministers meeting in St Kitts-Nevis
BASSETERRE, St Kitts (CMC) — Caribbean Community (Caricom) agriculture ministers gathered in St Kitts on Tuesday for a pivotal meeting addressing critical issues in fisheries, aquaculture, and regional food systems. The discussions, part of the 19th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA 2025), focused on combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, enhancing trade and employment in the sector, and establishing a new grievance redress mechanism for the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) based in Belize.
In his opening address, St Kitts and Nevis Agriculture Minister Samal Duggins underscored the vital role of agriculture in regional development and resilience. “Agriculture is not just another sector. It is the very lifeblood of our people, ensuring access to healthy and nutritious food for every family,” he stated. Reflecting on the CWA 2025 theme, “Sowing Change, Harvesting Resilience,” Duggins emphasized that the policies and partnerships forged during the event would shape the region’s future prosperity.
Duggins urged regional leaders to prioritize agriculture, which he described as a pillar of sovereignty and growth. He highlighted local initiatives, such as the food import reduction program, which focuses on increasing the production of high-demand crops like bananas, plantains, coconuts, and pineapples. Additionally, he noted efforts to scale climate-smart practices, expand agro-processing, and empower youth and women in the sector. Duggins also stressed the importance of South-South cooperation, particularly with African nations, to foster shared learning and innovation in agriculture.
The meeting, chaired by Anguilla’s Minister of Economic Development Kyle Hodge, also addressed regional training and capacity-building needs, supported by UNESCO’s GRÓ-Fisheries Training Programme. Ministers reviewed progress on initiatives like the STAR-Fish Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, and the BE-CLME+ Project, aimed at promoting blue economy priorities in the Caribbean.
Meanwhile, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) launched its Common Apiculture Policy during the 9th OECS Council of Ministers: Agriculture meeting. Developed under the EU-funded BioSPACE Programme, the policy aims to protect bees as essential pollinators while strengthening the apiculture sector through sustainable practices and research-driven strategies. Beekeeper Monroe Tweed highlighted the policy’s focus on standardizing beekeeping practices and addressing pest management challenges.
As part of CWA 2025, the OECS-Caricom Caribbean Honey Show will showcase honey and related products, offering attendees a taste of regional apiculture innovations. Additionally, the CRFM will collaborate with local organizations to host the Caribbean Small-scale Fisheries & Aquaculture Forum, further advancing the region’s agricultural and marine resource goals.
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Suspected mastermind of Argentina livestreamed femicide detained in Peru
In a significant development in the investigation of a gruesome triple murder case in Argentina, Peruvian authorities have apprehended the alleged mastermind behind the crime. The suspect, known as “little J,” was detained in Pucusana, approximately 45 miles south of Lima, Peru. This arrest brings the total number of individuals detained in connection with the case to nine. Argentine Security Minister Patricia Bullrich praised the Peruvian National Police for their efforts and collaboration in capturing the fugitives. Earlier, Bullrich had announced the arrest of another suspect, Matias Ozorio, in Peru. The victims—Morena Verdi, Brenda del Castillo, and Lara Gutierrez—were found buried in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires on September 24, five days after they went missing. The three young women, aged 15 and 20, were reportedly tortured and killed in a live-streamed attack on a closed social media group as a “warning” over an alleged drug theft. “Little J,” a 20-year-old Peruvian national, is believed to lead a drug gang in Buenos Aires’ Zavaleta neighborhood, while Ozorio, 23, is considered his right-hand man.
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Bermuda braces as Hurricane Imelda follows Humberto
Bermuda is bracing for an unprecedented meteorological challenge as Hurricane Imelda approaches the British Overseas Territory, closely following the outer bands of Hurricane Humberto. Imelda, which intensified into a hurricane early Tuesday, is projected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon. Currently classified as a Category 1 storm with sustained winds of 80 mph (130 kph), the US National Hurricane Center warns of potential strengthening over the next 48 hours. Bermuda’s Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, urged residents to prioritize safety, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Imelda is expected to bring heavy rainfall of 2 to 4 inches (50 to 100 mm) from Wednesday into Thursday, raising concerns of flash flooding and dangerous storm surges. Meanwhile, Hurricane Humberto, which has weakened to Category 1 after reaching a rare Category 5, continues to generate hazardous surf and rip currents across the western Atlantic. Earlier this week, Humberto claimed two lives in Cuba’s Guantanamo and Santiago de Cuba provinces, according to Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz. Meteorologists attribute the US East Coast’s relative safety to a rare Fujiwhara interaction, where the two cyclones rotated around each other, diverting Imelda away from South Carolina. The Atlantic hurricane season, running from June 1 to November 30, is predicted to be above-normal, though no storms have yet made US landfall.
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Lawsuit looming
In a decisive move, the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has voted unanimously to file a lawsuit against the Government of Jamaica, alleging that numerous educators were unjustly forced into retirement. The decision, made during a General Council meeting on September 27, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between the JTA and the Government. JTA President Mark Malabver confirmed the development, emphasizing that the union has exhausted all other avenues for resolution. The conflict stems from recent amendments to the Pensions Act, which the JTA claims have compelled teachers to retire before the legal age of 65, disrupting their financial planning and obligations. Despite earlier assurances from the Ministry of Finance to address the issue, the JTA asserts that no formal communication or action has been taken since February. Malabver reiterated the union’s commitment to seeking justice through the courts, stating that legal proceedings would commence shortly. The JTA is also engaged in protracted wage negotiations with the Government, with Malabver criticizing the current offer of a 7.5% increase over three years as inadequate. He stressed that the Government must recognize education as an investment rather than charity, urging a fair resolution to both the retirement and wage disputes.
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UN Security Council approves new military force to fight Haiti ‘terrorist’ gangs
The United Nations Security Council has unanimously endorsed a resolution to significantly expand its security mission in Haiti, transforming it into a robust force aimed at curbing rampant gang violence. The new mission, authorized to deploy up to 5,500 uniformed personnel, including police and military troops, marks a substantial escalation from the current Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which comprises only 1,000 officers. The decision, supported by 12 council members, underscores the international community’s commitment to addressing Haiti’s escalating security crisis. U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz hailed the resolution as a beacon of hope for a nation besieged by violent gangs that have terrorized the population through murder, rape, and pillaging. The initiative, co-sponsored by the United States and Panama, aims to restore stability in a country grappling with chronic political instability and gang dominance. Kenya, which has already contributed police officers to the MSS, expressed optimism about the mission’s potential success, provided it receives adequate resources and logistical support. However, China and Russia abstained from the vote, with China voicing concerns about the efficacy of military intervention without a concurrent political transition. The resolution also establishes a UN support office to facilitate logistical and financial assistance. Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council welcomed the move, describing it as a pivotal step in combating one of the nation’s most severe challenges. The decision comes amid worsening gang violence, which has paralyzed the country and forced the resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry earlier this year.
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Blk Orchid’s ‘How Long’ takes the prize at Canada’s Reggae North Music Awards
At the prestigious 2025 Reggae North Music Awards in Canada, singer Blk Orchid clinched the award for Top Reggae Single of the Year with her powerful track ‘How Long.’ The song, penned in 2016, was deeply inspired by the tragic events surrounding the police killing of 18-year-old Mike Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Blk Orchid described the track as an emotional outcry against systemic violence targeting Black communities, channeled through music. Despite its timely message, she hesitated to release it immediately due to its politically charged nature and her initial focus on producing rather than performing. The song was eventually brought to life by Cut and Clear Productions and Indie Rootz Records. Blk Orchid expressed her astonishment at the song’s success, admitting she never anticipated such a profound connection with listeners. ‘I was overwhelmed with gratitude when my name was announced,’ she shared, reflecting on the surreal moment of her victory. The category featured strong contenders, including Tonya P’s ‘Rise,’ Ammoye’s ‘Baby I Love You,’ and Paris Ivey’s ‘Mek it to Di Top.’ Blk Orchid was also nominated for Top Female Vocalist, further cementing her rising influence in the reggae scene. Beyond her recent win, Blk Orchid is actively working on new projects, including a collaboration with Empress Divine titled ‘No Longer Lonely’ and an innovative venture into AI-driven music production. Her multicultural heritage and collaborations with industry legends like Sly Dunbar have shaped her unique artistic journey, solidifying her place in the global music landscape.
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Big tackle on HIV
In a significant move to combat the HIV epidemic, Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness is preparing to launch a pilot programme for lenacapavir, the first US Food and Drug Administration-approved injectable HIV prevention drug. This initiative, described by former US President Bill Clinton as a “genuine chance to end” the global HIV crisis, aims to provide a long-acting alternative to daily oral pills. Lenacapavir, administered twice a year, will be offered free of charge in Jamaica’s public health system, targeting vulnerable populations. Dr. Nicola Skyers, senior medical officer of the National HIV/STI programme, emphasized the drug’s potential to address adherence challenges, particularly among younger individuals less accustomed to daily pill regimens. The pilot will also include cabotegravir, another injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) taken every two months. While the cost of injectable antiretrovirals remains high, Jamaica is exploring partnerships to make these treatments more accessible. Lenacapavir, set for rollout in the US by year-end at $28,000 annually, will be available in 120 low- and middle-income countries by 2027 at a reduced cost of $40 per person, thanks to collaborations between the Clinton Health Access Initiative, the Gates Foundation, and Wits RHI. The World Health Organization has endorsed lenacapavir as a transformative preventive measure, with WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus calling it “the next best thing” to an HIV vaccine. In Jamaica, where approximately 26,000 individuals live with HIV/AIDS, young adults have expressed enthusiasm for the injectable option, citing convenience and effectiveness over daily oral PrEP.