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标签： Jamaica

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  • JAMROCKING

    JAMROCKING

    Jamaica’s national basketball squad, the ‘Jamrockers,’ has achieved a monumental victory in the FIBA World Cup Americas Qualifiers, defeating Puerto Rico 97-92 on their home court in San Juan. This triumph marks their second consecutive win in Group B, propelling them to a joint top position with tournament favorites Canada, both teams holding four points.

    The game was a showcase of exceptional teamwork and individual talent. Chase Audige led the scoring with 20 points, supported by Romaine Thomas’s 18 points and a dominant double-double from Kofi Cockburn, who contributed 15 points and 12 rebounds. Team captain Kentan Facey, adding 9 points and 10 rebounds, emphasized that the team’s cohesion was the cornerstone of their success against a highly favored Puerto Rican team.

    Beyond the court, the victory carries profound significance for a nation recently battered by Hurricane Melissa. Facey, hailing from the impacted parish of Trelawny, stated the team was driven by a desire to provide a positive rallying point for Jamaicans. He highlighted the win as proof of basketball’s growing validity and potential to put Jamaica on the global sports map.

    With four critical games remaining in the qualifiers, Head Coach Rick Turner acknowledged the historic start but cautioned against complacency. He stressed that the primary objective remains advancing from what he described as ‘the toughest pool in the tournament.’ The team’s immediate focus is on their upcoming fixtures against the Bahamas on February 26 and a pivotal clash with Canada on March 1. Two more victories would secure Jamaica a spot in the next round, edging them closer to qualification for the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar.

  • Man caught with dozens of cocaine pellets to be sentenced

    Man caught with dozens of cocaine pellets to be sentenced

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A Kingston court has deferred sentencing until 2026 for Ricardo Muir, a 38-year-old Jamaican national who admitted to drug-related charges this week. The defendant appeared before Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court, where he entered a guilty plea for possession and dealing in cocaine.

    The legal proceedings took an unexpected turn when Muir’s defense counsel initially petitioned for the case to be transferred to Jamaica’s drug treatment court system, which emphasizes rehabilitation over incarceration for substance-related offenses. This judicial alternative typically applies to individuals struggling with addiction rather than those involved in drug distribution networks.

    Prosecution authorities presented compelling evidence detailing how law enforcement officials intercepted Muir in the early hours of May 23rd with 78 individually wrapped pellets of cocaine, collectively weighing approximately one pound. During questioning under caution, the defendant allegedly disclosed that the narcotics were intended for transfer to another party for international transportation.

    Despite admitting to domestic drug offenses, Muir maintained his innocence regarding the more serious charge of attempting to export controlled substances. This strategic partial plea arrangement followed extensive consultation between the defendant and his legal representative. The court has scheduled sentencing for February 27, 2026, allowing for comprehensive presentencing investigations.

  • DEFYING DISRUPTION

    DEFYING DISRUPTION

    Despite ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, Jamaica’s 2025 Black Friday shopping event demonstrated remarkable economic resilience with transaction volumes unexpectedly surpassing the previous year’s figures. According to data released by JETS, operator of the MultiLink electronic switching network, consumer spending reached $2.45 billion on November 28, 2025, slightly exceeding the $2.41 billion recorded during the 2024 shopping event.

    The performance is particularly noteworthy given that only 86.6% of ATMs and 87.5% of point-of-sale terminals were operational during the shopping period—significantly below normal capacity levels. JETS CEO Edmundo Jenez characterized the results as “solid” considering the physical and economic disruptions retailers continue to navigate nationwide.

    Recovery progress remains uneven across the island, with stark regional disparities in financial infrastructure restoration. While St. Thomas has achieved full restoration and the Corporate Area along with several eastern and central parishes operate at 92-99% capacity, western parishes face considerably slower recovery. St. Ann and St. James hover around 73% operational ATMs, while Trelawny and Westmoreland remain in the mid-60s percentile. The most severely affected regions include St. Elizabeth at 51% and Hanover at just 43% functionality.

    Retail experiences varied significantly based on location and merchandise. Home and Things’ Cross Roads branch reported one of its strongest turnouts in three years, with customers arriving as early as 6:00 am to capitalize on 30-70% discounts for home improvement items. Meanwhile, a neighboring furniture and appliance retailer experienced approximately 50% lower sales despite aggressive discounting, with management noting subdued consumer sentiment potentially influenced by awareness of ongoing struggles in western parishes.

    International shoppers contributed to the positive performance, with Zimbabwean national Oliver Murima and his wife purchasing over 15 pairs of shoes and multiple sock packages to take back home, specifically timing their shopping for Black Friday discounts.

    JETS anticipates ATM availability will reach 90% and POS terminals 95% by mid-December, though approximately 44 ATMs (5% of the national fleet) may not return to service before 2026 due to severe flood damage, vandalism, and prolonged utility outages.

  • Ohio missionary indicted for child exploitation crimes in Haiti

    Ohio missionary indicted for child exploitation crimes in Haiti

    A federal grand jury in Ohio has unsealed a damning indictment against Jeriah Mast, a 44-year-old resident of Millersburg, Ohio, charging him with four distinct counts of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with minors in Haiti. The charges stem from an extensive pattern of abuse allegedly occurring during multiple trips Mast took to the Caribbean nation between 2002 and 2019.

    Court documents reveal Mast frequently traveled under the auspices of Christian Aid Ministries (CAM), a religious organization, which provided a facade for his predatory actions. Investigators obtained flight records documenting over 30 separate journeys from the United States to Haiti between November 2002 and August 2018, with each count in the indictment corresponding to the abuse of a different minor victim.

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division condemned the alleged crimes, stating the defendant specifically targeted ‘vulnerable children living in an impoverished nation.’ He emphasized the department’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims regardless of where such crimes occur, asserting that ‘our law enforcement partners and prosecutors will continue to relentlessly seek justice.’

    The case emerged through a collaborative investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cleveland, which received substantial assistance from the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office. Matthew Stentz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Detroit, highlighted the significance of the case, noting it exemplifies their mission to investigate individuals, ‘especially those in positions of trust who exploit children.’

    This prosecution forms part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, a nationwide program launched in 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. authorities are leveraging this framework to hold perpetrators accountable for crimes committed overseas, ensuring they face the full weight of American justice.

  • Pulse continues pivot amidst business reset

    Pulse continues pivot amidst business reset

    Pulse Investments Limited is executing a comprehensive business transformation following a significant 34% decline in net profit, which fell from $542.95 million to $357.65 million for the 2025 fiscal year. The Jamaican entertainment and real estate company is fundamentally restructuring its traditional modeling operations while converting its Villa Ronai property into an upscale five-star resort destination.

    The financial downturn primarily resulted from the company’s strategic decision to cease recognizing advertising entitlements and in-kind sponsorship as revenue until establishing consistent monetization capabilities. This conservative accounting approach contributed to the complete absence of the previously substantial $513.99 million advertising revenue stream. Cash sponsorship and branding revenues experienced a dramatic contraction from $77.38 million to just $3.45 million, while model agency income plummeted from $66.53 million to $2.70 million.

    Chairman Hilary Phillips characterized the financial results as reflecting ‘deliberate de-risking decisions’ and ‘a reset of certain revenue streams’ during a period of strategic refocusing. The company’s property rental division demonstrated relative stability, generating $151.35 million from its Trafalgar Road commercial offices and Villa Ronai properties, representing only a modest 4% decrease from the previous year.

    The transformation initiative includes reimagining the company’s historic modeling business through a digital-first approach with deeper integration across media and hospitality assets. This strategic shift acknowledges fundamental changes in the global media landscape that diminished the financial returns of traditional events like Caribbean Fashion Week, which Pulse hosted for 19 consecutive years before COVID-19 disruptions.

    Critical to the hospitality vision is the proposed restructuring of Pulse’s $803.64-million bond facility, with discussions ongoing between Barita Investments Limited and JCSD Trustee Services Limited. The company’s financials revealed no contractual interest or principal payments were made according to the original schedule during FY2025, with an empty interest reserve account contrasting sharply with the $31.03 million balance in 2023.

    Despite these challenges, Pulse maintained an asset base of $12.10 billion, though current assets declined 67% to $37.67 million. The company ended the fiscal year with $33.58 million in cash, supported by undrawn bond portions totaling $273.30 million. Shareholder’s equity increased 4% to $9.61 billion against total liabilities of $2.48 billion.

    The strategic pivot occurs amid significant leadership changes following the passing of co-founder Kingsley Cooper in June 2024, the resignation of former co-managing director Romae Gordon, and the passing of director Jeffrey Cobham. The reduced four-member board must expand to meet regulatory requirements, particularly for the audit committee which currently comprises only Phillips and Eleanor Brown.

    Pulse’s stock closed at $1.17 recently, delivering a 2% gain for 2025 with a market capitalization of $7.63 billion. The company will hold its annual general meeting on April 9 at the Villa Ronai property as it continues its transition toward hospitality and lifestyle real estate development.

  • 10 items to pack in your Christmas barrel post-Melissa

    10 items to pack in your Christmas barrel post-Melissa

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact, the longstanding Jamaican tradition of sending Christmas barrels from abroad has evolved from a cultural gesture into a vital recovery mechanism. These shipments, historically filled with festive treats and reminders of connection, now carry essential supplies for families grappling with the storm’s aftermath.

    The catastrophic weather event left widespread damage across the island, disrupting power infrastructure, compromising water systems, and destroying personal belongings. As communities face prolonged power outages and limited access to clean water, the contents of these barrels have become instrumental in supporting daily survival and recovery efforts.

    Critical items now prioritized for inclusion address immediate humanitarian needs. Solar-powered lighting solutions and portable chargers maintain essential connectivity and safety after dark. Practical clothing and sturdy footwear provide protection during cleanup operations, while innovative hygiene products like no-rinse sponges and portable toilet systems address sanitation challenges where water infrastructure remains compromised.

    Water purification tablets offer protection against waterborne diseases, and non-perishable food items sustain families while electrical systems undergo repairs. Protective tarpaulins serve as temporary roofing solutions, helping secure damaged homes against further exposure.

    Notably, communication technology has emerged as a recovery priority, with portable internet devices and Starlink systems enabling access to emergency information where local networks remain impaired. This technological dimension represents a modern evolution in disaster response, facilitating crucial connectivity when traditional infrastructure fails.

    The reimagined Christmas barrel initiative demonstrates how cultural traditions can adapt to address contemporary crises, transforming seasonal generosity into targeted humanitarian support. Each carefully selected item now serves dual purposes: meeting immediate physical needs while reinforcing the profound message of solidarity that underpins the Jamaican diaspora’s enduring connection to home.

  • Mega Bounce to return Dec 26-27

    Mega Bounce to return Dec 26-27

    The Caribbean’s premier touring inflatable theme park, Mega Bounce, announces its highly anticipated return to Jamaican shores this holiday season. Following its successful regional debut in Kingston’s Hope Gardens last April, the massive entertainment attraction will now grace two locations: Bridgeport Cricket Club in Portmore, St. Catherine on December 26-27, followed by an appearance at Brooks Park in Mandeville on January 4, 2026.

    This homecoming carries profound significance as organizers seek to uplift national spirits following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. Founder Kirkland ‘Bounce Bawse’ Kelly revealed initial hesitations about proceeding with the event, but overwhelming support from government officials, parish councils, and local communities convinced the team to move forward.

    ‘After the disaster, it genuinely feels people are craving joy as recovery continues,’ Kelly stated. True to their commitment, the Mega Bounce team has been actively providing relief supplies to affected communities while maintaining a low profile about their philanthropic efforts.

    The production will feature enhanced installations and a special humanitarian component: complimentary transportation will be provided for families severely impacted by the hurricane, particularly those from western parishes. Additionally, a portion of proceeds from both events will be channeled toward ongoing recovery initiatives.

    Since its Jamaican inception, Mega Bounce has embarked on an extraordinary Caribbean tour, achieving remarkable attendance figures exceeding 10,000 visitors in Barbados, Antigua, and multiple Guyanese locations. Kelly attributes this success to the attraction’s universal appeal across all age groups and its ability to deliver unforgettable family experiences.

    Debbie Smith-Walker, representing Team Mega Bounce, emphasized the organization’s deep connection to Jamaica: ‘This is where our historic journey began. The tremendous support during our Easter debut inspired us to reciprocate with an even grander production.’

  • SLB Debt Reset Programme now active — Walsh

    SLB Debt Reset Programme now active — Walsh

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact, Jamaica’s Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) has activated comprehensive financial relief measures for student borrowers. The initiative includes a landmark Debt Reset Programme and targeted payment deferments for affected regions.

    SLB Executive Director Nickeisha Walsh announced the emergency measures during a Wednesday post-Cabinet briefing at Jamaica House, characterizing the program as both a recovery mechanism and long-term financial rehabilitation opportunity. ‘This debt reset provides our students with a viable pathway to reduce outstanding balances, eliminate accumulated charges, and establish sustainable repayment structures,’ Walsh stated. ‘It’s designed to support both current payers and those in arrears.’

    The Bureau commenced accepting applications on December 1, 2025, with full online functionality scheduled to activate Monday. The Debt Reset Programme features substantial financial concessions: 50% forgiveness on interest arrears alongside complete waiver of all late fees and insurance charges. Participants must clear 100% of principal arrears and 50% of interest arrears during the five-month program window ending April 2026 to achieve current account status.

    Borrowers maintaining current payments receive immediate $100,000 account credits, with additional 2% reductions applied after twelve months of consistent payment history. The SLB’s current portfolio reveals 35,360 active loans totaling $29 billion debt, with approximately 25% considered current, 33% delinquent, and 42% under moratorium status.

    Concurrently, the Bureau implemented geographic-specific relief for parishes hardest hit by Melissa—Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Hanover, St James and Trelawny. In-school students from these regions qualify for $60,000 grants, while graduated borrowers receive three-month payment deferments. Students outside these designated parishes may apply directly to SLB for individualized assistance assessments.

  • Room to rebuild stronger

    Room to rebuild stronger

    In an unprecedented move, international financial institutions have pledged a monumental $6.7 billion financing package to support Jamaica’s recovery from the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa. The Category 5 hurricane struck the island’s southwestern region on October 28 with catastrophic winds exceeding 185 mph, causing preliminary damage estimates of $8.8 billion.

    The coordinated three-year assistance program represents the largest development financing package ever assembled for Jamaica, involving the International Monetary Fund, World Bank Group, Inter-American Development Bank, Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Caribbean Development Bank. Prime Minister Andrew Holness characterized the rapid mobilization of funds within one month of the disaster as “historic” and a testament to Jamaica’s strengthened international credibility.

    According to Holness, this extraordinary support reflects global confidence in Jamaica’s governance framework, built through years of disciplined fiscal management, debt reduction, and institutional strengthening. “Jamaica today stands as a credible, responsible, and trustworthy sovereign,” Holness stated during an address to the House of Representatives, emphasizing that the nation’s hard-earned reputation enabled this rapid response during its time of greatest need.

    The recovery strategy will unfold through three comprehensive phases. The initial stabilization phase focuses on restoring essential services including electricity, water, connectivity, emergency shelter, and transportation infrastructure. As conditions stabilize, relief efforts will transition from physical distribution to targeted financial support through voucher systems.

    The second phase addresses economic and social recovery through school reopenings, healthcare facility restoration, and support for agricultural sectors, small businesses, and tourism operators. Particular emphasis will be placed on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which Holness identified as the backbone of Jamaica’s economy. The Development Bank of Jamaica has launched a Business Recovery Programme with $3 billion in initial funding for the 2025/26 fiscal year.

    The final reconstruction phase will focus on climate-resilient rebuilding with future-proofed infrastructure designed to withstand environmental challenges. Holness emphasized that reconstruction efforts will serve as a growth-inducing strategy, creating employment opportunities, attracting private investment, and ultimately repositioning Jamaica as a modern, competitive economy capable of weathering future climate shocks.

  • Team Notnice turns compassion into action

    Team Notnice turns compassion into action

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating path through Jamaica, the dancehall collective Team Notnice has emerged as a powerful force for community support and national unity. Comprising producer Notnice, manager Nordia Mothersille, and artist Jah Vinci, the group has provided essential supplies to over 100 families across severely affected western regions, demonstrating the music industry’s capacity for meaningful social impact.

    Beyond physical assistance, Team Notnice has harnessed the healing power of music through Jah Vinci’s newly released single ‘Out Of Many One People.’ The track, produced by Notnice Records and distributed by ONErpm, serves as both a tribute to hurricane survivors and an anthem of national resilience. Jah Vinci, who personally witnessed the destruction in multiple communities, explained his motivation: ‘The hurricane may have shaken us, but it could never break our spirit. We visited families standing among rubble that was once their homes, yet they spoke with remarkable strength about recovery.’

    The initiative represents what Notnice describes as ‘a declaration of unity rather than mere charity.’ This synergy between artistic expression and community support has become increasingly vital as Jamaica faces a prolonged recovery period. The collective’s efforts gained further momentum following Jah Vinci’s performance at the I Love Jamaica Telethon last Sunday, where he helped raise additional recovery funds.

    Looking forward, Team Notnice continues to blend philanthropy with musical innovation. Jah Vinci revealed plans for a December single release as part of a broader Notnice Records project scheduled for the Christmas season, ensuring that both relief efforts and cultural production remain interconnected in Jamaica’s rebuilding process.