Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

牙买加

  • ‘It’s not over’

    ‘It’s not over’

    LOS ANGELES — As the world prepares to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, 2025, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) announces a series of global events emphasizing the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS. Despite decades of medical advancements, the organization highlights the sobering reality of 1.3 million new infections occurring worldwide annually, signaling that the epidemic remains a critical public health challenge.

    The international observances—spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas—will focus on promoting HIV prevention, testing, condom accessibility, treatment, and care. This year’s commemoration holds particular significance as AHF celebrates a major operational milestone: expanding its services to 50 countries since first launching global programs in South Africa and Uganda in 2002.

    Current global statistics reveal approximately 40 million people living with HIV worldwide, with women and girls accounting for over half of those affected. Persistent stigma, discrimination, and financial barriers continue to hinder access to essential care, particularly among key vulnerable populations.

    Terri Ford, AHF’s Chief of Global Advocacy and Policy, emphasized the ongoing challenges: “This World AIDS Day reminds us that the fight against HIV is far from over. Millions still face barriers to testing, treatment, and ongoing care, while stigma and high drug prices put lifesaving tools out of reach.”

    The events will also address the chronic underfunding of global HIV response programs. Advocates are calling for sustained financing, including full funding for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and challenging pharmaceutical companies to prioritize accessibility over profits.

    Ford specifically criticized pharmaceutical pricing practices: “Even with prevention tools like long-acting injectables, high prices keep them out of reach for the people and countries that need them most. Innovation doesn’t matter if it isn’t accessible to all.”

    The commemorations will honor those lost to AIDS-related illnesses while reinforcing the message that HIV/AIDS must remain at the forefront of national and global public health priorities. The theme “It’s Not Over” serves as both a memorial and a call to action for governments and communities worldwide to recommit resources and political will toward ending the epidemic.

  • Yung Ras scores a double on Jamaica YouTube Trending chart

    Yung Ras scores a double on Jamaica YouTube Trending chart

    Emerging Jamaican recording artist Yung Ras has accomplished a significant milestone in his musical career by securing two simultaneous placements on YouTube’s Jamaica Trending chart. His tracks ‘Confident’ and ‘We Shall Rise’ both captured audience attention, demonstrating his growing influence in the digital music landscape.

    During the latest tracking period, ‘Confident’ ascended to the 11th position while ‘We Shall Rise’ made an impressive debut at number 19. Both productions were crafted by the renowned Butler Brothers production team. The viral momentum has been substantial, with ‘Confident’ accumulating over 700,000 views and ‘We Shall Rise’ gathering more than 331,000 views within just two weeks of its release.

    The artist expressed profound satisfaction with this career development, stating: ‘This achievement marks a pivotal moment in my professional journey. While it demonstrates there are greater heights to reach, I remain deeply grateful for this current accomplishment. Having two compositions trend simultaneously confirms that my artistic message resonates with listeners and validates my creative direction.’

    Yung Ras provided insight into the distinct inspirations behind both tracks. ‘Confident’ emerged from cherished memories of a meaningful relationship and shared experiences with a remarkable individual. Conversely, ‘We Shall Rise’ was conceived as a response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, expressing solidarity with affected Jamaicans and offering musical comfort during challenging times. The artist emphasized his commitment to using his platform to provide inspiration and support to communities facing adversity.

  • Clarendon’s quiet crisis

    Clarendon’s quiet crisis

    While national attention remains fixed on Jamaica’s southwestern regions following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, May Pen Mayor Joel Williams is urgently directing focus toward the severely affected northern communities of Clarendon Parish. Speaking on the Serenity Resource Connector Platform, Williams emphasized that widespread damage in Clarendon’s hill communities has been largely overlooked, despite the area’s critical role in national food security.

    Preliminary damage assessments from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery estimate Jamaica’s total losses at approximately US$8.8 billion, with Clarendon accounting for US$319 million in damages. Mayor Williams identified 13-14 communities in the northern belt—including Frankfield, Victoria, Bloomwell, and Croft’s Hill—that suffered catastrophic impacts from the Category 5 hurricane that made landfall on October 28 with winds exceeding 185 mph.

    The disaster has severely compromised both housing infrastructure and agricultural production. Initial evaluations indicate approximately 2,000 households sustained significant damage to their dwellings. The farming belt, which supplies both local markets and international exports, has been particularly devastated, threatening Jamaica’s food distribution networks and potentially causing widespread price increases.

    Relief operations involving the Jamaica Defence Force, Ministry of Labour, and Social Development Commission have implemented a multi-pronged approach to reach isolated communities. Many areas remained inaccessible for over a week due to road slippages, delaying critical aid delivery. Williams specifically highlighted the need for the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) to intensify support for farmers who have already begun autonomous recovery efforts.

    The mayor noted that many farmers supplying export markets, Kingston consumers, and the tourism industry remain unregistered with RADA. Arrangements are underway to ensure all agricultural producers receive necessary support regardless of registration status. Williams praised the resilience of local communities and diaspora contributions that have enabled basic schools to resume operations despite extensive damage.

    While acknowledging the long recovery ahead, Mayor Williams expressed admiration for the community’s determination: ‘Restoration is moving at a pretty good pace as people have picked up the pieces without waiting for external assistance.’

  • UNAIDS urges Caribbean to overcome disruption to transform AIDS response

    UNAIDS urges Caribbean to overcome disruption to transform AIDS response

    KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has reinforced its dedication to collaborating with Caribbean governments, civil society organizations, and communities impacted by HIV to establish a robust, person-focused approach to combating the epidemic. This renewed pledge comes as the region observes World AIDS Day under the timely theme ‘Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,’ highlighting both significant progress and emerging threats to previous achievements.

    The Caribbean region currently faces multiple converging challenges that jeopardize HIV response systems. The climate emergency, substantial debt obligations, and constrained economic expansion have significantly reduced available funding for essential health, education, and social welfare programs. This financial strain is particularly acute given the region’s heavy reliance on external funding, which constitutes approximately 66 percent of HIV resources projected for 2024. Simultaneously, international health assistance is experiencing substantial reductions estimated between 30-40 percent, creating dangerous gaps in community services and worsening health disparities.

    Recent environmental catastrophes, including Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path through Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba, have further compromised healthcare infrastructure, displaced vulnerable populations, and interrupted critical treatment schedules for those living with HIV. Many affected individuals now face the dual challenge of reconstructing their lives while maintaining access to essential antiretroviral therapy and prevention services.

    Despite these considerable obstacles, the Caribbean demonstrates extraordinary resilience and adaptive innovation. Through strengthened collaborations with local communities, several nations have maintained treatment coverage and prevention initiatives. However, concerning gaps persist with nearly 30 percent of the estimated 90,000 people living with HIV not receiving consistent care, often presenting with advanced disease progression. Even among those engaged with healthcare services, many experience treatment interruptions and inadequate viral suppression.

    UNAIDS emphasizes that while regional resilience is commendable, it cannot alone compensate for diminishing resources and escalating systemic shocks. The organization advocates for reinforced health systems, expanded community-directed solutions, and guaranteed continuous access to comprehensive HIV services. Achieving the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat requires intensified urgency, collaborative unity, and revitalized commitment from all stakeholders.

    International solidarity is increasingly crucial as nations grapple with widening inequalities, service interruptions, and reduced foreign financing. UNAIDS appeals to the global community to support heavily affected countries by addressing funding deficiencies, eliminating discriminatory legal and social barriers, and adequately resourcing community leadership structures. Additionally, Caribbean leaders are encouraged to advance Sustainable Development Goal 3.3 targeting AIDS elimination and embrace the forthcoming Global AIDS Strategy 2026–2031 through enhanced regional cooperation, health system strengthening, and targeted investments in sustainable, community-led responses capable of enduring future crises.

  • International investors still gung-ho on Jamaica, says Bartlett

    International investors still gung-ho on Jamaica, says Bartlett

    NEGRIL, Westmoreland — Jamaica’s tourism industry demonstrates remarkable resilience as investor confidence remains steadfast following the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett confirmed that all previously announced hotel expansion projects will proceed without delay, signaling strong global belief in the destination’s long-term viability.

    During an inspection tour of Negril’s recovery progress, Bartlett revealed that not a single investor has withdrawn or postponed development plans despite widespread infrastructure damage. This extraordinary vote of confidence comes as Jamaica enters its critical winter tourism season with approximately 65% of properties operational.

    Substantial development projects continue according to schedule across multiple parishes. The Palladium resort group will commence construction on 1,000 additional rooms in January 2026, while Sandals International has reaffirmed its commitment to previously announced developments. Bahia Principe is not only refurbishing its existing 1,300 rooms but adding 365 luxury suites, potentially creating 3,000 new jobs alongside their current workforce of 2,000 employees.

    Minister Bartlett characterized this sustained investment as testament to Jamaica’s symbolic resilience and the international community’s trust in the destination’s recovery capabilities. “Within one month of experiencing the worst weather event in the northern Caribbean, we can genuinely declare that Jamaica is open and ready for business,” Bartlett stated.

    The tourism minister extended gratitude to international visitors and partners while praising utility companies, government agencies, and hospitality workers for their extraordinary recovery efforts. Bartlett projected that over 80% of tourism assets would be operational by mid-2026, reaching 90% capacity by early 2027.

    Highlighting Jamaica’s competitive advantage of diverse destination experiences—from Ocho Rios and Port Antonio to Kingston and Negril—Bartlett invited global travelers to support recovery efforts through visitation. “The best way to support Jamaica after Melissa is to visit us,” he urged, describing the nation as a “wonderful piece of paradise” poised for full restoration.

  • M&M Jamaica Limited redirects Christmas festivities to support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts

    M&M Jamaica Limited redirects Christmas festivities to support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In an unprecedented move demonstrating corporate social responsibility, M&M Jamaica Limited has announced the complete reallocation of its traditional Christmas celebration budget toward hurricane recovery initiatives. The company will cancel all festive activities and gift exchanges to concentrate resources on supporting communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa.

    The strategic decision emerged from the company’s profound commitment to national solidarity during crisis. Management and staff representatives jointly endorsed the initiative, recognizing that supporting fellow citizens in their most vulnerable moment represents the truest form of seasonal celebration. Employees have further pledged to volunteer their time and expertise to ensure efficient delivery of aid.

    Chairman Donald Mullings, whose home parish of St Elizabeth suffered severe hurricane damage, emphasized the urgency of coordinated response. “As both a corporation and as Jamaican citizens, we stand united with those facing disruption,” Mullings stated. “This extraordinary disaster demands extraordinary measures. Addressing instability in western Jamaica is essential for national stability.”

    The comprehensive Hurricane Melissa Relief Programme encompasses multiple sectors:

    • Emergency Provisions: Distribution of critical supplies including tarpaulins and care packages to 120 residents across hardest-hit St Elizabeth communities

    • Educational Support: Financial assistance ranging from J$25,000 to J$50,000 for scholarship recipients and bursary students from affected regions

    • Infrastructure Rehabilitation: Significant funding allocated for roof repairs at religious institutions and residential properties across multiple parishes

    • Agricultural Recovery: Complete replacement of lost livestock plus one-month feed supply for farmers, with total allocation of J$1,000,000

    The company confirmed Montego Bay is under consideration for inclusion in expanded relief efforts, demonstrating ongoing assessment of community needs.

  • Barbados installs second president during Independence Day parade

    Barbados installs second president during Independence Day parade

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Barbados marked a significant constitutional milestone with the inauguration of Jeffrey Bostic as the nation’s second president during its 59th independence anniversary celebrations, which also commemorated its fourth year as a parliamentary republic. The swearing-in ceremony occurred in the early hours of Sunday, symbolizing a new chapter in the nation’s governance.

    President Bostic, a distinguished former Minister of Health and decorated military officer within the Barbados Defence Force (BDF), rose to national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. His steadfast leadership during the 2020 health crisis, characterized by his resolute motto ‘No Retreat, No Surrender,’ garnered widespread admiration and was instrumental in navigating the country through one of its most difficult periods. He assumes the presidency following Dame Sandra Mason, who transitioned from being the final Governor-General under the monarchical system (2018-2021) to becoming the inaugural president of the republic.

    Ensuring security for the high-profile event, the Barbadian government formally requested assistance from the Regional Security System (RSS). This strategic deployment, comprising police and military personnel from member states including Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Guyana, and St Kitts and Nevis, was activated under the RSS treaty provisions for mutual support, underscoring the event’s regional importance.

    Concurrently, the nation honored several distinguished citizens with its highest accolade, the Order of Freedom of Barbados. Central Bank Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge was recognized for his transformative and people-centric economic leadership, particularly through the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation programmes. Cricket icon Joel ‘Big Bird’ Garner was honored for his extraordinary contributions to the sport, from his legendary career as a fast bowler to his administrative roles with the Barbados Cricket Association and West Indies management. Economist and philanthropist Dr. Kurt Lambert was also awarded for his distinguished service. Furthermore, an honorary award was bestowed upon Professor Benedict Okechukwu Oramah, former president of the African Export-Import Bank, for his pivotal role in strengthening trade and investment ties between Barbados and the bank’s member states.

  • Alleged burglar mobbed, set ablaze in St Elizabeth

    Alleged burglar mobbed, set ablaze in St Elizabeth

    A brutal vigilante killing unfolded in the Bona Vista Housing Scheme of Myersville, St Elizabeth on Saturday afternoon, resulting in the death of a man accused of burglary. The deceased has been identified by law enforcement as Jermaine Davis.

    The incident commenced approximately at 2:00 pm when Davis was observed operating a black Toyota Voxy motor vehicle within the residential area. The vehicle and its driver were suspected of involvement in a recent break-in at a local residence. As Davis attempted to depart the scene, community residents intervened to confront him.

    According to police reports, a physical altercation ensued during which Davis allegedly brandished a knife in an effort to resist restraint. Although he initially broke free and fled the immediate premises, residents subsequently cornered the suspect. The situation escalated dramatically as the crowd subjected Davis to a violent assault, pelting him with stones and physically mobbing him.

    The collective violence reached its horrific climax when both Davis and the vehicle were deliberately set ablaze. Upon arrival at the location, law enforcement personnel discovered Davis’s body on a roadway with his hands and feet bound by ropes. Medical personnel detected faint signs of life, prompting immediate transportation to Mandeville Regional Hospital where he was subsequently pronounced dead.

    Background investigations reveal this was not Davis’s first encounter with community justice. Reliable sources indicate his prior implication in a separate burglary case in Manchester where he similarly sustained physical assault from civilians before judicial intervention could occur.

  • St James Municipal Corporation issues final notice for bus stop sheds

    St James Municipal Corporation issues final notice for bus stop sheds

    The St James Municipal Corporation in Jamaica has issued a definitive ultimatum to organizations responsible for adopted bus stop shelters, demanding immediate removal of structurally compromised signage damaged during Hurricane Melissa one month ago. Municipal authorities have determined that numerous signs perched atop these public transit structures now pose potential safety hazards due to their deteriorated condition.

    Mayor Richard Vernon formally announced through Observer Online that all damaged infrastructure must be either fully restored or completely removed by December 3, 2025. The Corporation explicitly warned that any neglected signage or bus stop facilities remaining beyond this deadline will be subject to municipal-led removal operations.

    The municipal leadership emphasized that this directive stems from safety considerations rather than punitive intentions. Mayor Vernon clarified that the primary objective involves ensuring public safety while simultaneously preserving the aesthetic integrity of Montego Bay’s urban landscape. This initiative represents part of broader ongoing efforts between city officials and corporate partners to restore municipal infrastructure to its pre-hurricane condition.

    Vernon articulated the city’s position stating, “This directive is not intended as punishment, but as a necessary measure to ensure that Montego Bay reflects the dignity, safety, and vibrancy its residents and visitors deserve.” The mayor further encouraged collaborative action, adding, “We therefore urge all partners to act forthwith, so that together we can safeguard the integrity of our public spaces and advance the restoration of our city.”

  • Capleton promises high energy performance at Food, Rum and Reggae Festival

    Capleton promises high energy performance at Food, Rum and Reggae Festival

    Jamaica’s entertainment and agricultural sectors are set to receive a significant boost as the rescheduled Food, Rum and Reggae Festival prepares for its December 6 launch. Originally planned for St. Elizabeth, the event was postponed following widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Organizers have committed to directing portion of the proceeds toward agricultural rehabilitation efforts in the storm-ravaged region.

    Headlining artist Capleton, known for his explosive dancehall performances, has promised an electrifying show dedicated to uplifting community spirits. In an exclusive interview with Observer Online, the performer emphasized the psychological importance of maintaining high energy levels during challenging times. “I don’t want my people’s energy to be low because this makes them spiritually and mentally weak,” Capleton stated, highlighting the therapeutic value of musical celebration.

    The hurricane’s impact touched all aspects of Jamaican society, with Capleton revealing that both his personal circle and broader community suffered substantial losses. The destruction prompted deep reflection on life’s fragility and the importance of sustainable practices. “It made me realize how important it is to use our natural resources for electricity and the importance of personal farming for emergency preparedness,” the artist shared.

    Joining Capleton on the lineup are fellow dancehall artist Agent Sasco and soulful singer Christopher Martin, creating a powerful musical coalition for recovery efforts.

    Beyond the stage, Capleton continues his philanthropic work through his charity foundation, providing hurricane relief including school supplies for affected children. While maintaining his characteristically low media profile regarding charitable acts, the artist confirmed ongoing support for those impacted by the natural disaster.