标签： Jamaica

The high-profile corruption trial involving former Jamaican Education Minister Ruel Reid, ex-Caribbean Maritime University President Fritz Pinnock, and three co-accused is set to continue in February 2026, with additional witness testimonies expected to shed light on the alleged $25 million fraud scheme. The trial, which began on October 7th after an initial delay due to the absence of Judge Vaughn Facey, has seen Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell presiding over the proceedings.

Witnessing the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa from their homes in the United States, Dr. B Roy Davidson and Dr. Laxley Stephenson were compelled to act. The devastating impact on their home parish of Westmoreland and other rural areas of Jamaica spurred them into action. Dr. Davidson, CEO of UNI Health Care Inc in Los Angeles, and Dr. Stephenson, president of Global Humanity Network Inc in Atlanta, led a humanitarian delegation to Jamaica from November 9 to 14. Their mission was to deliver two weeks’ worth of relief supplies to 500 families affected by the hurricane, with support from UNI Health Care Inc and the Caribbean Cricket Club of Los Angeles. They were joined by Dr. Beverly Nichols, president of the Atlanta-based Push Start Foundation, who contributed 25 solar generators to provide electricity for lighting, communication, and device charging in the hardest-hit communities. The team visited Little London, Whitehouse, Savanna-la-Mar, Montego Bay, Lacovia, and Black River, witnessing firsthand the destruction of homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods. For Davidson and Stephenson, both natives of Little London, the mission was deeply personal, as many of their relatives and friends were among the victims. Hurricane Melissa, a Category Five storm with winds of 185 mph, struck Jamaica on October 28, causing widespread devastation in rural areas and claiming 45 lives. The Jamaican diaspora’s swift and compassionate response highlights the enduring connection between Jamaicans abroad and their homeland.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the YeCats Mobile Resource Centre has introduced the YeCats Mobile Classroom, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at restoring educational stability in Jamaica’s hardest-hit areas. Launched on November 17 in Black River, the program has already begun transforming the lives of children, offering emergency literacy and numeracy support. Spearheaded by Stacey Robinson, founder and literacy coach of YeCats, the mobile classroom is a beacon of hope for communities grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. The initiative concluded its first week with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony attended by community leaders, educators, and sponsors. As a fully mobile program, YeCats plans to expand its operations to other hurricane-affected regions, providing eight weeks of structured, rehabilitative learning in each location. Robinson emphasized the program’s mission: “Education must continue, even in the midst of crisis. Our children deserve stability, confidence, and an opportunity to keep learning.” Parents and students have already reported life-changing results. Marsha, a mother who volunteered at the mobile classroom, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am so excited and glad that right now the kids can come out and go to school.” Children, too, are showing remarkable emotional and behavioral transformations. An 11-year-old boy, previously known for disciplinary issues, shared his commitment to change, stating, “Miss, mi aguh change and behave better.” The program’s innovative YeCats Sound Box, a phonics system, is a cornerstone of the curriculum, designed to build confident, fluent readers. Teachers and parents will also receive training to ensure continued progress outside the classroom. The initiative is supported by key partners, including Matthews and Clarke, Murray’s, and World Central Kitchen. Sandie Saunders of Matthews and Clarke Limited was particularly praised for her early endorsement, which was instrumental in mobilizing resources. Classes are held Mondays to Wednesdays in a safe learning tent donated by Murray’s, focusing on reading, writing, mathematics, and life skills. The program’s holistic approach includes one hour dedicated to activities supporting physical, emotional, and mental development, crucial for children recovering from trauma. With 70 students registering on the first day and 120 by the second, the program’s rapid growth underscores the urgent need for academic continuity and psychosocial support in disaster-stricken areas.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which brought torrential rains to Jamaica’s south-west, residents in affected areas have found an unexpected lifeline in the form of newly surfaced springs. With tap water supplies disrupted, these natural water sources have become vital for hydration and daily needs. Popular spots include a pool in Seven Rivers, which has overtaken a major thoroughfare, and a spring near the under-construction Montego Bay bypass in West Green. While the springs have been celebrated for their beauty and utility, Peter Clarke, managing director of the Water Resources Authority (WRA), warns they are temporary and may pose health risks. Clarke explained that the springs emerged due to the ground’s saturation from heavy rainfall and will likely disappear as the water table recedes. He cautioned against consuming untreated water, noting potential contamination from nearby pit toilets or agricultural activities. Despite their temporary nature, the springs have provided a crucial stopgap for residents as national water systems recover from storm-related damage. Clarke emphasized that while the water can be used for domestic purposes after boiling, it should not be considered a long-term solution or tourist attraction.

In a prestigious ceremony held in Paramaribo, Suriname, Dr. Ruben del Prado, a distinguished medical practitioner, was awarded the title of “Knight of the Legion of Honor” by France. This accolade, the lowest rank in France’s highest civilian order, recognizes Dr. Del Prado’s exceptional contributions to medicine, the fight against AIDS and HIV, public health initiatives across continents, and his efforts to rejuvenate the Alliance Française in Suriname. The award was presented by French Ambassador Nicolas de Lacoste on behalf of President Emmanuel Macron, who personally endorsed the honor.