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  • Gov’t receives Ethiopian delegation on hurricane recovery assistance mission

    Gov’t receives Ethiopian delegation on hurricane recovery assistance mission

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant demonstration of international solidarity, a high-level Ethiopian delegation arrived in Jamaica on Thursday to assess damage and explore avenues for supporting the island nation’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa. The delegation, spearheaded by His Excellency Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye, Ethiopia’s State Minister, was formally received at Jamaica House by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister.

    The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations amidst a crisis. Senator Fitz-Henley publicly acknowledged and commended Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for initiating this supportive gesture. He emphasized the profound historical and cultural connections between the two nations, rooted in shared ancestry and heritage, which form the foundation for a robust and evolving partnership.

    Key officials, including Permanent Secretary Ambassador Rocky Meade and Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Commander Alvin Gayle, contributed to the strategic discussions. The agenda focused on coordinating effective relief efforts and formulating a framework for long-term recovery assistance. Following the high-level talks, Ambassador Tsegaye was scheduled for an observational tour of the severely impacted parishes of St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland to evaluate the devastation firsthand and better direct Ethiopian support.

  • ‘Rebel In Me’ connects Rising Star with reggae legend

    ‘Rebel In Me’ connects Rising Star with reggae legend

    In a heartfelt tribute to the late reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, who passed away on November 24 at age 81, the remarkable story of his song ‘Rebel In Me’ has resurfaced through singer Noddy Virtue’s interpretation. Although originating from Cliff’s 1989 album ‘Images’—not typically ranked among his most celebrated works—the soothing ballad maintained consistent radio play in Jamaica for years.

    The track experienced an unexpected renaissance sixteen years later when Virtue performed it during the second season of Digicel Rising Stars talent contest, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Christopher Martin. Virtue revealed in an interview that his childhood connection to the song motivated his selection. ‘I felt the emotions it evoked, the message it gave, the powerful impact it has on lives,’ Virtue reflected. ‘I interpreted it not just as a rebel fighting for a cause, but as one battling in spiritual realms, conveying the experience of ultimate love.’

    This performance captured the attention of Cliff himself, who warmly approved of Virtue’s soulful rendition. Their artistic connection deepened when they met in 2011 at Cliff’s Kingston recording studio. The reggae legend not only encouraged Virtue to persist in music but also expressed admiration for his unique take on ‘Rebel In Me.’ Virtue recounted Cliff’s generous words: ‘He jokingly said, ‘It look like I’m going to have to give you this song, it makes me feel so proud that somebody can sing my song the way you do.’’

    The album ‘Images,’ produced under Cliff’s own label, featured other significant tracks including ‘Trapped’—later covered by Bruce Springsteen—and a rendition of The Slickers’ ‘Johnny Too Bad,’ previously featured on the soundtrack of Cliff’s seminal film ‘The Harder They Come.’ The recording benefited from collaborations with esteemed musicians including the Browne brothers, Wycliffe ‘Steely’ Johnson, and backing vocals from soul singer Betty Wright.

    Virtue, now based in the United States, also recorded ‘Trapped’ with Cliff’s personal encouragement, though it remains unreleased. He fondly remembers their unplanned meeting and creative exchanges, noting Cliff’s belief that ‘it will only take one song’ for Virtue’s international breakthrough. As the music world mourns Cliff’s passing, Virtue extends condolences to the family of what he describes as ‘a legend, humanitarian, actor, and a great musician.’

  • Gov’t receives Ethiopian delegation on hurricane recovery assistance mission

    Gov’t receives Ethiopian delegation on hurricane recovery assistance mission

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant demonstration of South-South cooperation, the Jamaican government welcomed a high-level Ethiopian delegation on Thursday to formalize international support for hurricane recovery initiatives. The delegation, spearheaded by State Minister His Excellency Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye from the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, arrived to assess damage and identify specific areas where Ethiopian expertise and resources could assist Jamaica’s rehabilitation efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

    The delegation was formally received at Jamaica House by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister. The meeting included key figures such as Permanent Secretary Ambassador Rocky Meade and Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), highlighting the strategic importance of the bilateral engagement.

    Senator Fitz-Henley publicly acknowledged the diplomatic gesture through social media, commending Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his proactive approach in offering support. He emphasized the deep historical connections between the two nations, noting shared ancestry and cultural heritage as foundations for a strengthened partnership. Fitz-Henley expressed confidence that this collaboration would intensify significantly in the coming weeks, months, and years.

    As part of their fact-finding mission, Ambassador Tsegaye was scheduled to conduct firsthand assessments in the severely affected parishes of St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland. This ground-level evaluation aims to align Ethiopia’s assistance with Jamaica’s most pressing post-disaster needs, ensuring targeted and effective international disaster relief cooperation.

  • Former US President Bill Clinton in Jamaica

    Former US President Bill Clinton in Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Former U.S. President Bill Clinton arrived in Jamaica on Thursday to evaluate the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which recently battered the island nation as a Category Five storm. The hurricane made landfall on October 28, particularly ravaging western parishes with destructive force.

    Matthew Samuda, Jamaica’s Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, confirmed the high-profile visit through an Instagram post on Thursday evening. The minister shared a photograph capturing a cordial handshake with the former American leader, accompanied by a caption stating: ‘Very good to see former president Bill Clinton, as we discussed the route to recovery from Hurricane Melissa.’

    While the precise agenda of Clinton’s mission remains undisclosed, his presence signals significant international attention to Jamaica’s post-disaster rehabilitation efforts. The timing of his assessment tour, just days after the catastrophic weather event, underscores the urgency of the recovery operations. The former president’s engagement with Jamaican officials suggests potential collaborative initiatives between disaster response organizations and the Jamaican government, though specific details regarding humanitarian aid or reconstruction support have not been formally announced.

    The visit represents a notable demonstration of international solidarity as Jamaica confronts the enormous challenge of rebuilding infrastructure and restoring normalcy to affected communities. Clinton’s historical involvement in Caribbean affairs through his foundation’s work adds context to his current humanitarian reconnaissance mission.

  • Jazz Must Be returns to The Summit for second staging

    Jazz Must Be returns to The Summit for second staging

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The cultural landscape of Kingston prepares to embrace an evening of sophisticated musical artistry as vocalist Apryl-Jaye presents the second annual installment of “Island Car Rentals Presents: Jazz Must Be.” The exclusive jazz fusion showcase is scheduled for Thursday, December 4 at The Summit venue, promising two hours of immersive auditory excellence from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with doors opening at 7:00 PM.

    Under the distinguished patronage of Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, this year’s event maintains its commitment to musical excellence while incorporating meaningful philanthropic elements. The production enjoys continued support from title sponsor Island Car Rentals, alongside contributing partners Tamia Carey, Roots Financial Group, and FMA Customs Brokers.

    Audiences can anticipate a meticulously curated program featuring Apryl-Jaye’s signature blend of jazz, bossa nova, and innovative fusion interpretations. The evening’s musical journey will include a special tribute segment arranged by renowned saxophonist Dean Fraser, honoring reggae legends Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Delroy Wilson, and John Holt. Additionally, the program will memorialize black artists who passed in 2025, including celebrated musicians Angie Stone and D’Angelo.

    The event will showcase Jamaica’s exceptional musical talent through an all-star ensemble featuring Keneil Delisser (drums), Dale Brown (bass), Gregory Palmer (keyboard), Okiel McIntyre (trumpet), and Lamont ‘Monty’ Savory (guitar). Organizers have hinted at a surprise guest performance, maintaining tradition from the inaugural event.

    Beyond the musical offerings, the experience includes a Food Village for early arrivals, and the event incorporates charitable components. A portion of proceeds will support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, while an on-site donation drive will collect non-perishable food and personal care items.

    Tickets are exclusively available for pre-sale at Music Mart for $5,000 JMD. Additional event information can be obtained via WhatsApp at 876-540-1020.

  • Reetu Gupta donates Ca$105,000 to support Jamaica’s hurricane relief and recovery efforts

    Reetu Gupta donates Ca$105,000 to support Jamaica’s hurricane relief and recovery efforts

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant humanitarian response, Canadian business leader and philanthropist Reetu Gupta has mobilized substantial resources totaling over CA$105,000 to support Jamaica’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact. The comprehensive aid package addresses both immediate emergency needs and long-term reconstruction efforts through strategic partnerships with established relief organizations.

    The Gupta Group CEO and Gupta Family Foundation head has allocated funds across three primary channels: CA$50,000 to GlobalMedic for emergency response operations, CA$30,000 to Food For The Poor Canada for essential supplies and shelter, and CA$25,000 to Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation for education-focused rebuilding initiatives. This multi-faceted approach ensures both rapid disaster response and sustainable community development.

    Beyond financial contributions, Gupta personally deployed her team to volunteer with GlobalMedic, assisting in assembling emergency kits destined for severely affected communities in western Jamaica. The humanitarian effort extends to supporting ‘Harmonies of Hope,’ a benefit concert initiative organized by the Jamaica Tourist Board in collaboration with Jamaican diplomatic missions in Canada.

    Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, a key advocate mobilizing diaspora support, praised Gupta’s leadership: ‘Her generosity is both timely and transformative. True leadership is measured by action during crises, and Reetu’s support exemplifies what it means to stand with Jamaica when it needs us most.’

    Jamaican officials expressed profound gratitude for the intervention. Angella Bennett, Regional Director of Tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board, stated: ‘These contributions are helping us rebuild stronger communities and restore vital infrastructure, allowing us to welcome visitors back to our beautiful island with the warmth and resilience Jamaica is known for.’

    The catastrophic hurricane has created one of Jamaica’s most severe humanitarian challenges in recent years, damaging homes, schools, community spaces, and critical infrastructure across the island nation.

  • Student loan relief

    Student loan relief

    The Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) of Jamaica has unveiled a comprehensive debt relief program offering substantial financial assistance to thousands of student borrowers affected by Hurricane Melissa. Executive Director Nickeisha Walsh announced the initiative during a post-Cabinet briefing at Jamaica House, outlining targeted support for both current students and repayment customers.

    Immediate relief measures will benefit nearly 2,000 enrolled students and approximately 4,450 repayment customers across five severely impacted parishes: St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny. Current students will receive direct grants of J$60,000 to support their educational recovery efforts, while repayment customers will obtain a three-month payment deferral from November 2025 through January 2026.

    The broader Debt Reset Programme, scheduled from December 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026, provides extensive financial waivers. Eligible borrowers can clear arrears through a 50% interest arrears waiver, complete elimination of accumulated charges, and full insurance fee waivers. Additionally, the SLB will credit J$100,000 to accounts of 8,890 borrowers maintaining good standing as an incentive for continued timely payments.

    Walsh emphasized the program’s dual purpose: immediate hurricane recovery support and long-term debt sustainability. Borrowers who remain current for one year following debt reset participation will qualify for a permanent 2% interest rate reduction, substantially lowering their overall repayment burden.

    The initiative comes as the SLB reports improved lending conditions, with borrowing rates dropping dramatically from 16% to just 3%. Current portfolio data indicates 35,360 active loans, including 11,634 delinquent accounts and 14,836 in moratorium status. Students outside the five designated parishes who experienced hurricane damage may still qualify for assistance through case-by-case evaluation.

  • KC seek motivation for second-tier Walker Cup through record title chase

    KC seek motivation for second-tier Walker Cup through record title chase

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant shift for Jamaican school football, defending champions Kingston College (KC) have suffered a stunning elimination from the ISSA Manning Cup quarterfinals, marking their first absence from the tournament’s final eight in twelve years. This unexpected early exit simultaneously opens an unusual opportunity for the team to pursue historic silverware in the secondary Walker Cup competition.

    The ‘Purples’ concluded their round of 16 campaign in third position, resulting in their relegation to the urban-area Walker Cup while forfeiting eligibility for the prestigious all-island Champions Cup. This demotion presents KC with a paradoxical chance to become the most decorated institution in Walker Cup history, currently tied with St George’s College at nine titles each.

    Head Coach Vassell Reynolds expressed measured disappointment while acknowledging the team’s challenging circumstances. “Having started as defending champions and giving our preparation our best shot as a coaching staff, clearly we must feel somewhat disappointed,” Reynolds stated to the Jamaica Observer. He cited the substantial challenge of replacing seven regular starters from last year’s championship squad as a primary factor in their premature exit.

    Statistical analysis reveals KC sustained only one defeat throughout the season – a narrow 1-0 loss to Hydel – while recording two draws. However, defensive vulnerabilities proved decisive, exacerbated by the absence of key personnel including 16-year-old central defender Jaeshawn Edwards, currently trialing in Dubai, and left back Rajae Ximines who departed the football program despite receiving a national under-20 training camp invitation.

    The Walker Cup, controversially restructured as a second-tier competition for teams eliminated in the Manning Cup’s second round, hasn’t featured KC since their 2016 triumph. That previous victory signaled the program’s resurgence after a prolonged drought, ultimately culminating in their 2018 Manning Cup victory – their first in nearly three decades – followed by two additional Manning Cups and last year’s Olivier Shield as all-island champions.

    Coach Reynolds has already begun reframing the team’s objectives: “We feel, having not won the Walker Cup since 2016, that can motivate ourselves and look forward to achieving.” Their campaign commences next Wednesday against St Jago High in a quartet of opening matches that will also feature nine-time joint holder St George’s College versus defending champions Mona High, alongside St Catherine High facing Campion College and Tivoli Gardens meeting Wolmer’s Boys.

  • Rough Treasure Football Showcase postponed due to impact of Hurricane Melissa

    Rough Treasure Football Showcase postponed due to impact of Hurricane Melissa

    The Rough Treasure Football Showcase, a premier scouting event scheduled for December 12-16 in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, has been officially postponed due to widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The catastrophic storm, which struck the island on October 28, inflicted severe damage to critical infrastructure including roads, communication networks, and residential areas throughout the planned host venues of Treasure Beach and Munro College.

    Event organizer Sanjay Clacken, a FIFA-certified football agent, emphasized that participant safety and community welfare took precedence over the sporting event. “The safety and well-being of players, coaches, staff, supporters, and the wider community remains our paramount concern,” stated organizers in an official release. The decision reflects the ongoing recovery efforts across Jamaican communities affected by what authorities are calling a national disaster.

    Despite the postponement, organizers reaffirmed their commitment to creating professional pathways for Jamaican football talent. The event’s core mission remains unchanged: to provide visibility and signing opportunities for promising athletes through direct engagement with European coaches and scouts. The organizing team maintains active communication with international football directors to ensure continued focus on player development.

    In a heartfelt statement, organizers described this as “an emotional moment” for all involved, acknowledging the showcase was designed to generate excitement and opportunity for young athletes. The team has shifted focus toward relief initiatives, pledging support for recovery and rebuilding efforts in affected communities.

    The Rough Treasure Football Showcase is expected to return as a symbol of resilience, with organizers promising to announce rescheduled dates when conditions permit. The event aims to mark a new chapter for Jamaican football, embodying hope and determination in the face of adversity.

  • Christmas cheer

    Christmas cheer

    Jamaican Agriculture Minister Floyd Green has publicly guaranteed the availability of traditional holiday foods for the upcoming Christmas season, despite significant agricultural disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa. The assurance came during a special post-hurricane media briefing at Jamaica House on Tuesday, where Green outlined a comprehensive recovery strategy combining targeted imports and substantial farmer support programs.

    The minister revealed his ministry has initiated contact with external suppliers to address specific shortages in vegetable lines and table eggs, emphasizing that importation would be carefully calibrated to avoid undermining local producers. ‘We will not do more than is needed. There will be space for your products,’ Green assured Jamaican farmers, explaining that the ministry employs detailed demand pattern analysis throughout the year to determine appropriate supply levels.

    The hurricane, which struck on October 28, exacerbated existing egg shortages by wiping out 458,000 layers—approximately 40% of Jamaica’s laying hen population. Green acknowledged the severity of the situation, noting that discussions are underway with the Ministry of Finance to ensure imported food items ‘land here at a reasonable price’ for consumers during the critical holiday period.

    Beyond immediate import solutions, the government has launched an ambitious agricultural recovery program. Phase two of hurricane recovery involves distributing over 7,000 seed packs valued at $50 million, with an additional $70 million allocation pending. Specialized support includes $50 million for fertilizer formulated specifically for yam farmers (who suffered 70% crop damage) and another $50 million for yam planting materials and stakes.

    Infrastructure repair forms another crucial component, with $800 million earmarked for restoring approximately 40 farm roads from the ministry’s $3 billion supplementary budget. The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) is spearheading multiple initiatives, including a free land preparation program utilizing private tractor services and distribution of 100,000 broiler chicks expected to produce 160 kilograms of chicken meat.

    Green highlighted encouraging signs of recovery, noting that farmers have already begun replanting, reestablishing nurseries, and repairing greenhouses in the month since the hurricane caused approximately $60 billion in agricultural losses. The coordinated government effort aims to accelerate Jamaica’s agricultural restoration while ensuring holiday food security through strategic intervention.