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  • Hamilton highlights western corridor’s role in Jamaica’s tourism future

    Hamilton highlights western corridor’s role in Jamaica’s tourism future

    HANOVER, Jamaica — Jamaica’s western tourism corridor has been officially designated as the cornerstone of the island’s long-term tourism strategy and competitive positioning in the global market. The declaration came from Tova Hamilton, State Minister in the Ministry of Tourism, during a comprehensive working tour of the region led by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett.

    Minister Hamilton’s site inspections at Chukka Ocean Outpost in Sandy Bay and the Grand Palladium Resort & Spa on Friday reinforced the government’s conviction that sustainable development practices must guide the sector’s expansion. “Our responsibility as a Government is to ensure this growth remains balanced, sustainable and inclusive,” Hamilton emphasized.

    The government’s framework for responsible tourism development includes implementing stringent standards, enhancing destination assurance programs, and improving infrastructural and environmental management systems. A critical component involves strengthening economic linkages to ensure greater retention of tourism revenues within local communities through Jamaican workers and suppliers.

    Hamilton highlighted Chukka Ocean Outpost as an exemplary model of environmental stewardship and employment generation within the adventure and nature-based tourism segment. “Attractions like this introduce dynamic new energy to our tourism product while emphasizing our collective responsibility to protect coastal ecosystems, coral reefs, and local communities,” she noted.

    The tour also recognized the substantial economic impact of major hotel investments, with properties like Grand Palladium generating confidence and creating opportunities across Hanover, Westmoreland, and St. James parishes. Hamilton emphasized that expansion and innovation by hotel partners stimulate broader value chain benefits for agricultural producers, manufacturers, transportation services, and professional service providers.

    As the ministerial delegation proceeded to Negril, attention turned to cultural preservation and infrastructure verification following Hurricane Melissa. The assessment aims to confirm operational readiness regarding staffing, room capacity, and guest activities, reinforcing market confidence that Negril remains fully operational, secure, and welcoming ahead of the winter tourist season.

    Hamilton concluded by commending tourism workers for their resilience and professionalism, aligning the tour with the ministry’s broader initiative toward a responsible, people-centered recovery strategy.

  • Guyana sends more emergency relief supplies to Jamaica

    Guyana sends more emergency relief supplies to Jamaica

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Demonstrating regional solidarity, the Guyanese government has mobilized its second major consignment of critical emergency supplies destined for hurricane-ravaged Jamaica. The shipment, which set sail from the AFS Shipping Wharf at Friendship aboard the vessel MV Falk on Thursday, represents a coordinated effort between national agencies and private sector partners.

    This humanitarian initiative follows the recent diplomatic visit of Guyana’s President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to Jamaica, where he joined other CARICOM leaders in assessing the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The relief cargo includes essential reconstruction materials such as lumber and zinc sheeting sufficient to repair approximately 200 damaged roofs. Additionally, the shipment contains vital living supplies including mattresses, water storage tanks, and substantial quantities of rice.

    Notably, the mattresses and water tanks were produced locally by Guyanese manufacturers A&F Foam Factory and Lion Tank, highlighting domestic industrial capability while supporting international relief efforts. Colonel Nazrul Hussain, Director General of Guyana’s Civil Defence Commission (CDC), emphasized the deeper significance of the mission: “This endeavor transcends material assistance—it embodies regional solidarity and enables Jamaican families to reconstruct their livelihoods with dignity.”

    In a further display of support, a specialized team of engineers from the Guyana Defence Force will be deployed to Jamaica to provide hands-on assistance with roof reconstruction upon the supplies’ arrival. The MV Falk, originally chartered by Barakat Timbers & Trading Company Ltd for commercial transport, was leveraged by the government to accelerate delivery through available cargo space.

    With an estimated transit period of six days, this shipment forms part of an ongoing commitment, as authorities confirm a third shipment of food and construction materials is scheduled for departure within the next fortnight.

  • UDC reaffirms its commitment to national recovery as Christmas approaches

    UDC reaffirms its commitment to national recovery as Christmas approaches

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Urban Development Corporation (UDC) has intensified efforts to restore public recreational facilities ahead of the Christmas season, completing comprehensive renovations at multiple high-profile locations. The recently reopened attractions include Dunn’s River Falls and Park, Reach Falls, Ocho Rios Bay Beach, and Harmony Beach Park, all now fully operational for public enjoyment.

    The coordinated restoration initiative represents a strategic investment in both community infrastructure and economic revitalization. Since reopening earlier this month, these spaces have immediately reactivated local economic networks, providing renewed income opportunities for small enterprises, artisan vendors, and transportation services.

    Tourism officials emphasize the broader implications of these reopenings, noting that visitor confidence directly correlates with national economic recovery. With tourism serving as Jamaica’s primary economic engine—supporting countless households and service sectors—the timely restoration of attractions has been prioritized as a matter of national importance.

    Additional reopenings are scheduled throughout November, with Long Bay Beach anticipated to welcome visitors by November 29, followed shortly by Bluefields Beach Park the subsequent week. This phased approach ensures both safety standards and operational excellence are maintained across all facilities.

    UDC General Manager Bobby Honeyghan observed that the return of visitors has created palpable positive energy: ‘Witnessing Jamaicans and international guests rediscovering these spaces with renewed comfort and normalcy holds profound significance for our organization. These attractions serve as vital sanctuaries for community reconnection and personal restoration after challenging times.’

    The corporation reaffirms its dedication to maintaining these spaces as reliable, secure, and uplifting environments that embody national pride while supporting Jamaica’s broader tourism ecosystem during the critical holiday season.

  • Manning Cup resumes with champions KC in danger

    Manning Cup resumes with champions KC in danger

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The ISSA Manning Cup football competition reignites this Friday following a one-month suspension due to Hurricane Melissa, setting the stage for a dramatic series of matches with quarterfinal implications hanging in the balance.

    All eyes are fixed on Group 2, where defending champions Kingston College (KC) confront a precarious must-win scenario against Campion College. After suffering an unexpected 0-1 defeat to Hydel High in their opener, KC languishes in third place. Simultaneously, a pivotal clash between group co-leaders Calabar High and Hydel High—both holding three points—will unfold at Calabar High School. A victory for either team in this encounter would secure their advancement, while a draw coupled with a KC win would intensify the standings.

    KC’s head coach, Vassell Reynolds, acknowledged the pressure while expressing confidence in his squad’s preparedness. “This is an extremely vital game at a difficult time, coming off a long layoff,” Reynolds stated. “However, we understand the situation and are well aware of what is required of us as defending champions. We expect the team to execute well.”

    The intrigue extends across other groups. In Group 4, perennial contenders Jamaica College (JC), holding just a single point, face St Jago in a critical bid to keep their championship aspirations alive. They trail Mona High, who sit comfortably atop the group with three points.

    Elsewhere, Group 3 features former champions St. George’s College, who are desperate for a victory against Vauxhall High after a loss in their initial match. The group is led by Charlie Smith High, who can clinch a quarterfinal berth with a win over St. Catherine High on Saturday.

    A top-of-the-table showdown in Group 1 will see Excelsior High and St. Andrew Technical High School (STATHS), both on three points, battle for an immediate spot in the next round.

    **Friday’s Fixtures:**
    * **Group 1:** Tivoli Gardens vs Wolmer’s Boys (Waterhouse Mini-Stadium, 2:00 pm); STATHS vs Excelsior (Waterhouse Mini-Stadium, 4:15 pm)
    * **Group 2:** Campion College vs Kingston College (Jamaica College, 2:00 pm); Calabar High vs Hydel High (Calabar High School, 3:00 pm)
    * **Group 3:** St. George’s College vs Vauxhall High (St. George’s College, 3:00 pm)
    * **Group 4:** Eltham High vs Mona High (Spanish Town Prison Oval, 3:00 pm); Jamaica College vs St Jago (Jamaica College, 4:15 pm)

  • Tech Beach Retreat cancels flagship event to focus on hurricane recovery

    Tech Beach Retreat cancels flagship event to focus on hurricane recovery

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Tech Beach Retreat (TBR), Jamaica’s foremost technology and innovation platform, has officially canceled its premier event previously scheduled for December 3–5, 2025. The decision reflects the organization’s commitment to prioritizing national recovery over its signature gathering.

    Kirk-Anthony Hamilton, CEO and Director of Tech Beach Retreat, described the hurricane’s impact as one of the most severe challenges in Jamaica’s modern history. “The scale of suffering, displacement, and loss throughout the island necessitates a full reallocation of our resources toward relief operations,” Hamilton stated. “While this was a difficult choice, it is unequivocally the right one for our nation at this critical time.”

    TBR has initiated refund processes for all prepaid event packages, with numerous attendees voluntarily converting their registrations into direct donations for emergency response initiatives. The organization expressed profound gratitude for this show of global solidarity.

    Simultaneously, TBR’s local team and advisory network have pivoted to execute both immediate aid distribution and strategic long-term reconstruction programs. Their on-the-ground activities include assembling and delivering thousands of essential care packages to affected populations, managing the logistics for international supply shipments, and initiating rebuilding projects in the most severely damaged regions.

    Technology remains central to TBR’s disaster response strategy. Through a partnership with HPS (Morocco), the organization is deploying Starlink satellite internet units and generators to restore communication and power in isolated communities. Collaborative efforts with Mobeus and Google are underway to develop advanced digital crisis-management systems and control-center operations, enhancing Jamaica’s coordination framework throughout the recovery phase.

    Further amplifying its relief campaign, TBR is coordinating two humanitarian cargo flights from Miami, funded through donations, to transport critical supplies to those in need.

    “TBR’s core mission has always centered on uniting people, resources, and global networks,” Hamilton emphasized. “These elements are now precisely what Jamaica requires to rebuild.”

    The organization is currently channeling tax-exempt contributions without deducting administrative fees through established partners like the American Friends of Jamaica and the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM). Prospective donors are encouraged to reach out via kirk@techbeach.net.

    Concluding on a note of defiance and hope, Hamilton affirmed: “Jamaica’s spirit is resilient — we may bend, but we never break. Our nation will emerge from this crisis stronger, more daring, and more impactful than ever before.”

  • McKenzie vows greater enforcement of National Building Code next year

    McKenzie vows greater enforcement of National Building Code next year

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path last month, Jamaican Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has issued a stern mandate for nationwide reconstruction efforts to strictly comply with the country’s National Building Code. Speaking during a Thursday address in Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth, McKenzie emphasized that rebuilding must prioritize structural integrity and disaster preparedness above all other considerations.

    Minister McKenzie highlighted the critical need for enhanced enforcement mechanisms, announcing that strengthened compliance measures will be implemented by 2026. He expressed particular concern about informal construction practices, specifically referencing the dangerous trend of erecting makeshift dwellings in flood-prone areas using inadequate materials like zinc sheets and plywood.

    The Minister delivered a blunt message regarding socioeconomic status and disaster vulnerability: “The time has come when we must forget about whether you poor or rich, because disaster don’t know nobody.” He observed that those claiming poverty often suffer most from natural disasters due to substandard building practices.

    McKenzie issued a grave warning about Jamaica’s preparedness, contemplating the catastrophic potential had Hurricane Melissa struck the densely populated Corporate Area instead of the southwestern region. He recalled a citizen’s sobering observation that “country can’t manage town,” underscoring the disproportionate impact a direct hit on the capital would have on national infrastructure and government operations.

    The government plans to initiate a comprehensive rollout of new building compliance measures in the coming year, signaling a transformative approach to urban planning and disaster resilience throughout Jamaica.

  • Sandals Foundation, RUBiS energy aid Westmoreland fishers in post-Hurricane recovery

    Sandals Foundation, RUBiS energy aid Westmoreland fishers in post-Hurricane recovery

    WHITEHOUSE, Westmoreland — A strategic partnership between the Sandals Foundation and RUBiS Energy Jamaica has injected critical resources into hurricane-ravaged fishing communities, offering a lifeline to more than 100 local fishers. The joint donation valued at $3.5 million JMD comprises 120 rolls of specialized fishing wire and 6,720 liters of UltraTec 90 gasoline, directly addressing the operational paralysis caused by Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage.

    The comprehensive relief initiative saw immediate implementation with distribution events commencing Friday. The fishing wire allocation enables artisans to construct approximately 600 replacement fish pots—essential equipment for sustainable harvesting. Simultaneously, RUBiS Energy Jamaica’s fuel contribution provides each fisher with 56 liters of high-quality gasoline, effectively restarting marine operations after weeks of forced inactivity.

    Diego Salmon, management lead at Whitehouse Fish Sanctuary, contextualized the disaster’s psychological toll: “The hurricane’s aftermath presents constant reminders of our collective loss. While the reconstruction needs remain enormous, our fishing communities demonstrate remarkable resilience. This support represents more than material aid—it symbolizes hope and tangible progress toward normalcy.”

    Corporate leadership emphasized the strategic importance of livelihood restoration. RUBiS Energy Jamaica CEO Michel Malatino stated: “Our involvement targets economic reactivation through sustainable means. Helping fishers return to their traditional occupations stimulates household stability and community rebuilding through multidimensional recovery.”

    Local fisher Oneil Smith confirmed the intervention’s practical impact: “With our boats and equipment destroyed, income generation became impossible. This assistance provides the necessary foundation to restart commercial activities and support our families.”

    The Whitehouse Fish Sanctuary, established in 2013 as a marine conservation initiative, has dramatically expanded its role post-hurricane. Beyond its ecological mandate, the organization now coordinates distribution of emergency supplies, provides free ice for food preservation, and maintains solar-powered charging stations alongside newly installed street lighting for enhanced community safety.

    The Sandals Foundation has integrated psychological support into recovery efforts through partnerships with Kahle Journey and the Jamaica Psychological Association. According to Executive Director Heidi Clarke: “Community strengthening remains central to our mission. By restoring fisheries—a dual source of income and nutrition—we activate crucial recovery mechanisms while honoring our commitment to sustainable development.”

    Future recovery phases will prioritize environmental rehabilitation. Salmon outlined forthcoming priorities: “After achieving personal sustenance, we’ll conduct comprehensive reef assessments and initiate coral replanting programs. Our sanctuary serves as the cornerstone for both ecological and economic restoration.”

  • Enrique Iglesias’ Bailando featuring Sean Paul is platinum in Germany

    Enrique Iglesias’ Bailando featuring Sean Paul is platinum in Germany

    Enrique Iglesias’ global hit ‘Bailando’ has secured another international milestone, receiving platinum certification in Germany for exceptional commercial performance. The Bundesverband Musikindustrie (BVMI), Germany’s official music industry association, formally granted this recognition in their latest monthly report, acknowledging the track’s combined sales and streaming figures equivalent to 600,000 units.

    The multinational collaboration, which features Jamaican artist Sean Paul and Cuban duo Gente De Zona alongside co-writer Descemer Bueno, originally debuted in 2014 as part of Iglesias’ ‘Sex and Love’ album released through Republic Records. The Spanglish-language track demonstrates remarkable cross-cultural appeal, blending rhythmic Latin pop with dancehall influences.

    This German certification adds to an impressive collection of international accolades for the viral sensation. Previous honors include quadruple platinum status in the United States, platinum recognition in the United Kingdom, and octuple platinum certification in Spain, reflecting its massive popularity across diverse markets.

    The song’s chart dominance extended across multiple continents, appearing on official music charts in over fifteen countries including Mexico, Brazil, France, Poland, Russia, and Romania. In the United States, ‘Bailando’ achieved significant commercial success across multiple Billboard charts, notably ranking on the prestigious Hot 100, Hot Latin Songs, and Latin Airplay charts.

    Beyond its commercial performance, the track received critical acclaim through numerous industry awards, including two Latin Grammy Awards, an ASCAP Award, and six Billboard Latin Music Awards. These achievements underscore both the artistic merit and cultural impact of this cross-over hit that continues to resonate with global audiences years after its initial release.

  • Entrepreneur Donovan Lewis inspires STGC students at boardroom meeting

    Entrepreneur Donovan Lewis inspires STGC students at boardroom meeting

    Prominent investment strategist Donovan Lewis recently delivered a masterclass on financial empowerment to aspiring young business minds at St. George’s College Entrepreneurship Club. The session, held at Ideal Securities Broker Ltd’s corporate headquarters, formed the culminating segment of the institution’s three-part lecture series titled ‘The Pioneers of Tomorrow’ on December 3.

    Lewis, who ascended from modest beginnings to establish the diversified Ideal Group of Companies and direct multiple financial institutions, dissected investment methodologies before an audience of sixth-form students and business studies scholars from across the island. His presentation extended beyond theoretical concepts to provide tangible rationale behind his investment portfolio decisions.

    The wealth manager emphasized psychological resilience as the cornerstone of financial success, advocating for an ‘unrelenting mindset’ in entrepreneurial pursuits. Through candid dialogue spanning over an hour, Lewis demonstrated how strategic asset allocation across private and public equity markets generates substantial returns.

    Student testimonials revealed profound impact: Jerome Hayles recognized the imperative of purposeful time management for future shaping; Jordon Hyman discovered architectural wealth potential through real estate investments; Moya McGaw internalized goal documentation techniques with strict timelines; while Shamaria Campbell found inspiration in Lewis’s diversified venture portfolio. Deontae Allen distilled the core philosophy—that human endeavor, persistence, and value-driven work ethic remain fundamental to achievement.

    Universal consensus emerged regarding Lewis’s transparency about succession planning imperatives and the non-negotiable principle of perseverance in wealth creation and preservation.

  • Bank of Jamaica wins 2025 Best Central Bank award

    Bank of Jamaica wins 2025 Best Central Bank award

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) has been distinguished with the prestigious Best Bank Award 2025 by the renowned international financial publication Global Finance. This accolade was formally presented to BOJ Governor Richard Byles during an awards ceremony in Washington DC, conducted alongside the annual gatherings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

    In a parallel recognition of exemplary leadership, Governor Byles was awarded an ‘A’ grade in Global Finance’s 2025 Central Banker Report Card. This annual evaluation scrutinizes the performance of nearly 100 central bank governors across the globe. The top-tier grade solidifies the BOJ’s position at the apex of central banking leadership within the Caribbean and Latin American regions, marking a notable improvement from the ‘A-‘ rating received in 2024.

    Governor Byles, in an official statement, attributed this success to the dedicated efforts of the bank’s entire staff. He emphasized that the award acknowledges their unwavering commitment to fulfilling the BOJ’s core mandates, which encompass stringent inflation control, ensuring the stability of the financial system, and the effective supervision of deposit-taking institutions.

    The recognition arrives at a critical juncture as the central bank intensifies its efforts to facilitate national recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which inflicted substantial damage to Jamaica’s economic and social infrastructure. Byles underscored that the bank’s primary focus on maintaining price stability is a fundamental pillar in supporting the country’s broader rehabilitation efforts.

    Global Finance’s rankings are derived from a meticulous analysis incorporating insights from the financial industry and a set of rigorous metrics. These criteria include the effectiveness of monetary policy, the rigor of financial system supervision, operational transparency, and the degree of independence from political influence.

    The publication specifically commended the BOJ for its consistent and strategic monetary policy actions aimed at curbing inflation, particularly following the hurricane disasters experienced in 2024. It highlighted that despite the severe economic disruptions caused by Hurricanes Beryl and Rafael, the bank, in concert with the government, successfully maintained a steady macroeconomic trajectory. Demonstrating this adaptability, the BOJ held its policy rate steady at 7% until August 2024, subsequently implementing a series of reductions to lower it to 5.75% by September 2025 as inflationary pressures subsided.