标签： Jamaica

Christopher Condappa, a devoted member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), tragically lost his life in a motor vehicle accident on November 10. The 34-year-old constable, who had fulfilled his childhood dream of joining the police force in 2012, was fatally injured while riding his service motorcycle on Anglican Street in Moneague, St Ann. Reports indicate that a Suzuki Swift collided with his motorcycle, leading to his untimely death. Condappa, assigned to the Moneague Traffic Department, was pronounced dead at the hospital after sustaining multiple injuries. Known for his selfless nature and unwavering commitment to helping others, Condappa was described by his sister, Abey-Gale Condappa-Malcolm, as ‘Mr Save the World.’ His family, including his mother Dorothy Condappa and his wife Camoya, are grappling with the profound loss of a man who was not only a dedicated officer but also a loving father, husband, and brother. Condappa leaves behind four daughters and a legacy of service and compassion that touched countless lives. The family is now preparing for his funeral, a task they never imagined having to undertake.

KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaican Senate convened on Friday to honor the life and legacy of the late Don Wehby, former senator and Group Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy Limited, who passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 62. Wehby was celebrated as a visionary, patriot, and nation builder, leaving an indelible mark on Jamaica’s political and business landscapes. Senate President Tom Tavares-Finson led the tributes, describing Wehby as a “dear friend to all of us” and highlighting his distinguished service in the Senate for over a decade, including his tenure as Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service from 2007 to 2009. Tavares-Finson also emphasized Wehby’s transformative leadership at GraceKennedy, where he modernized the conglomerate and earned a place in the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica Hall of Fame. Acting Leader of Government Business, Senator Dana Morris Dixon, praised Wehby as “an exceptional man” and a “giant in Jamaican business,” noting his role in building global brands and businesses through GraceKennedy. Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, lauded Wehby’s strategic vision and unwavering patriotism, stating that his legacy would inspire future generations. Fitz-Henley also highlighted Wehby’s belief in the transformative power of sports and education, as evidenced by his pioneering work with the GraceKennedy Foundation. Acting Leader of Opposition Business, Senator Floyd Morris, acknowledged Wehby’s distinguished service to the Senate and the nation, describing him as a “giant in every sphere of his life.” Senator Lambert Brown echoed these sentiments, calling Wehby a visionary and patriot who served his country with dedication. The Senate observed a minute of silence in honor of Wehby and for the lives lost during Hurricane Melissa. Other senators who paid tribute included Kavan Gayle, Ramon Small Ferguson, Charles Sinclair, Alan Bernard, Sherine Golding Campbell, Keith Duncan, and Christian Tavares-Finson.

The Trump administration has unveiled a new policy that will significantly increase costs for foreign tourists visiting some of the United States’ most iconic national parks. Effective from 2026, international visitors will be required to pay an additional $100 surcharge on top of the standard entry fees at 11 of the most popular parks, including the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. Additionally, the annual pass for non-residents, granting access to all national parks, will more than triple in price, rising from $80 to $250.

The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left Jamaica’s forests in a state of crisis, with significant environmental repercussions anticipated, according to the Forestry Department. Initial assessments reveal that approximately 51% of the island’s forested areas, spanning 272,943.89 hectares, have been adversely affected. Ainsley Henry, CEO and conservator of forests, emphasized that all parishes have sustained damage, with St Elizabeth, Trelawny, Manchester, St James, Hanover, Westmoreland, and other regions bearing the brunt of the devastation. The environmental fallout is expected to include heightened risks of landslides, soil erosion, mudflows, flooding, and a decline in biodiversity. Additionally, the loss of vegetative cover is likely to exacerbate heat in certain areas and worsen mosquito-related issues due to reduced shade. In response, the Forestry Department has initiated rapid forest assessments and is scaling up nursery production to facilitate restoration efforts. The department has also secured 1,500 breadfruit seedlings from the Trees That Feed Foundation for free distribution to the most affected parishes. Reforestation will commence post-data collection, prioritizing severely impacted zones. While some tree species, such as Blue Mahoe and mahogany, may show signs of recovery within weeks to months, others could take up to 15 years to fully regenerate. Henry urged public cooperation in wildlife protection and tree care, emphasizing the importance of pruning damaged trees and replanting where necessary. Despite the challenges, Henry remains optimistic, stating, ‘Jamaica, her forests, and her people are resilient. We will rise again, and we will be stronger.’