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  • Byles to headline Caribbean CFO Summit

    Byles to headline Caribbean CFO Summit

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The inaugural Caribbean Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Summit commences virtually on Tuesday, featuring Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) Governor Richard Byles as the opening keynote speaker. The two-day conference, organized by Signature Creed & Associates, aims to address the evolving role of financial leadership across the region.

    Governor Byles is set to deliver critical macroeconomic analysis focusing on monetary stability, contemporary financial leadership, and policy modernization within the Caribbean context. He will be joined by World Bank Group Vice President Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo as a fellow keynote presenter, highlighting the event’s significant caliber.

    The summit emerges against the backdrop of recent financial disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, which has prompted a regional reassessment of economic resilience and disaster risk mitigation strategies. Denzil Whyte, partner at Signature Creed & Associates, noted that the hurricane symbolizes broader organizational and national challenges, emphasizing the necessity for robust risk assessment and strategic planning.

    While specifically targeting CFOs, the conference agenda encompasses a comprehensive spectrum of finance sectors, with expert speakers from insurance, investment banking, microfinance, law, and economics. Kevon McIntosh, co-founder of the event, stated that the modern finance executive’s role has expanded beyond traditional reporting and compliance to include strategic influence, technological integration, and enterprise value preservation.

    The event will be hosted by Kalilah Reynolds, with moderation handled by McIntosh, Gavin N Bennett, and Renate McDonald. Participating professionals have the opportunity to earn up to 13 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours. Further details regarding registration and the full agenda are available at the official summit website: https://caribbeancfosummit.com/.

  • #Champs2026: Holmwood lead girls Class 2 and 3 400m qualifying

    #Champs2026: Holmwood lead girls Class 2 and 3 400m qualifying

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The opening day of the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships witnessed a spectacular display of emerging talent in the 400-meter events. Athletes from Holmwood Technical High School established an early dominance, securing top positions in the preliminary heats held at the National Stadium on Tuesday.

    In the Class 2 division, Annastacia Hall of Holmwood Technical delivered a commanding performance, clinching her heat with an impressive time of 54.56 seconds. She will be joined in Wednesday’s semi-finals by teammate Maddison Campbell, who secured her advancement with a time of 54.88 seconds.

    The qualifying rounds revealed intense competition across schools. Shameika McLean of Foga Road High demonstrated remarkable speed with 54.78 seconds, while Kimberly Wright from Immaculate Conception followed closely at 55.36 seconds. The field of semi-finalists expanded to include Daniellia Dixon of William Knibb Memorial (55.47 seconds), Khaklila Lewis-Satchwell from Edwin Allen (55.54 seconds), and Hydel High’s Sashana Johnson (55.93 seconds).

    The Class 3 category similarly showcased exceptional young talent, with Holmwood Technical’s Malya McLennon leading the qualifiers with a swift 56.02 seconds. Teammate Tianna Blair secured her semi-final position with 57.36 seconds. Additional qualifiers included Sha-Jay Davis from Convent of Mercy Alpha Academy (56.64 seconds), followed by Hydel High’s Shaneil Henry (56.70 seconds) and Tyecia McDonald (56.93 seconds). Tawauna Marston of Knox College also advanced with a competitive 56.88 seconds.

    The championships continue to serve as a premier platform for Jamaica’s next generation of track stars, setting the stage for thrilling semi-final competitions.

  • Guyana still in discussions with US bulk fuel supplier despite court battle

    Guyana still in discussions with US bulk fuel supplier despite court battle

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana — The Guyanese government has confirmed that negotiations remain ongoing with US-based energy infrastructure firm Curlew Midstream regarding a proposed bulk fuel storage facility, a project that has already missed its initial deadline for completion by the end of 2025.

    President Irfaan Ali addressed reporters, stating, “We are in discussion with the legal team. They’re handling those negotiations. I’m not going to comment on where those negotiations are but they have a proposal in and we’re looking at that.” This confirmation comes amid emerging legal challenges and apparent last-minute changes to the previously agreed terms.

    Court documents from a separate litigation filed in February 2026 reveal that Curlew Midstream’s board had met with high-level Guyanese officials to finalize remaining commercial points, providing due diligence materials and financial documents with expectations that execution of the Fuel Exchange Agreement was imminent. According to filings, President Ali himself met with company representatives on January 10, 2026, confirming that Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat would execute the agreement within two days.

    However, the arrangement encountered significant obstacles when the Guyanese government subsequently presented a “signable agreement” that unexpectedly incorporated terms from a new consultant not previously involved in negotiations. These eleventh-hour modifications introduced substantial changes to key commercial points that were inconsistent with terms previously agreed upon in October 2025, when both parties had reached consensus on crude pricing, refined product pricing, terminal construction in Georgetown and Lethem, and prepayment arrangements.

    President Ali, without specifically referencing Curlew Midstream, emphasized the strategic importance of such storage infrastructure amid rising global oil prices fueled by Middle East conflicts. “Just imagine if we had a massive storage facility in Guyana under these challenges—the role Guyana could have played,” he stated, adding that several Middle Eastern nations were evaluating countries for investment opportunities to guarantee long-term energy security.

    The proposed $300 million facility would store 750,000 barrels of various fuel products and was expected to refine at least 30,000 barrels of crude daily for domestic consumption. Curlew Midstream had projected that its terminal would enable price-advantaged trading, dramatically reducing wholesale and retail fuel prices while potentially positioning Guyana as an exporter of high-quality fuels to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations.

    When questioned about two US court cases concerning alleged intellectual property theft and their potential impact on the approval process, President Ali stated he was unaware of such litigation, noting that involved parties would need to resolve those matters separately.

  • #Champs2026: Calabar’s Edwards leaps into Class 2 long jump final with single jump

    #Champs2026: Calabar’s Edwards leaps into Class 2 long jump final with single jump

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Stadium witnessed spectacular athletic performances during Tuesday’s qualifying rounds for the Class 2 boys long jump event at the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships. Three standout jumpers secured their places in Wednesday’s final with impressive first-attempt clearances that demonstrated both technical prowess and competitive efficiency.

    Talshawn Edwards of Calabar High emerged as the top qualifier, launching himself to a wind-assisted 6.90 meters (with a tailwind of 2.1m/s) that immediately established him as the athlete to beat in the upcoming final. Close behind, Cornwall College’s Zhi-Hew Whitter, who previously claimed gold at the COCAA Western Championships, recorded a solid jump of 6.68 meters (0.5m/s wind) to automatically advance.

    The qualification round saw intense competition as Kingston College’s Odane Noble secured his final berth with a 6.55-meter leap, comfortably exceeding the automatic qualifying standard of 6.50 meters. However, Noble’s performance placed him fourth overall after St Jago High’s Winaldo Faulknor delivered a clutch third-attempt jump of 6.58 meters (0.9m/s wind), demonstrating the dramatic nature of the competition.

    Additional athletes earning spots in Wednesday’s championship final included Shamar Shaw (Calabar High) with 6.47m, Omari Gordon (Wolmer’s Boys) at 6.44m, alongside Akeem Freeman (Manchester High) and Leonardo Green (St Jago High), both recording identical marks of 6.36 meters. The diverse representation from multiple Jamaican high schools sets the stage for an electrifying final showdown that will crown the nation’s top junior long jump talent.

  • Rygin King detained by ICE in US

    Rygin King detained by ICE in US

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent Jamaican dancehall artist Rygin King, legally named Matthew Smith, has been officially confirmed as being in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to verified records accessible through ICE’s online detainee tracking system, the musician was apprehended this past Monday. While the specific charges or circumstances leading to his detention remain undisclosed by authorities, his status is now formally documented within the federal immigration enforcement database. The development has sent shockwaves through the Caribbean music industry where Rygin King maintains significant celebrity status. Industry observers and fans alike are awaiting further clarification regarding the legal basis for his detainment and potential implications for his career. U.S. immigration officials have not yet released an official statement detailing the case specifics.

  • Rygin King faces ‘Tuff’ challenges with ICE

    Rygin King faces ‘Tuff’ challenges with ICE

    Jamaican dancehall performer Rygin King, legally named Matthew Smith, faced a dramatic turn of events when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers apprehended him at his residence mere hours before his scheduled green card interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The arrest occurred yesterday, with Smith’s detention now formally documented on the official ICE website.

    No official explanation has been provided regarding the grounds for his detention, and neither the artist nor his representatives have released any formal statement. This incident marks the second time in recent months that a dancehall artist has been taken into ICE custody, following the detention of fellow musician Chronic Law.

    The situation presents additional complications due to Smith’s medical condition. The artist became paraplegic following a 2020 shooting incident in Westmoreland, Jamaica, that claimed the life of his manager’s wife and left him with three gunshot wounds that damaged his spinal cord. His condition necessitates specialized medical attention.

    Legal complexities surround the arrest, particularly concerning an ongoing New York gun case from 2024. Smith, his wife Ileene Parker-Smith, and four others were arrested in Queens after police discovered a loaded firearm during a traffic stop. Smith pleaded not guilty to six charges, including criminal possession of a loaded firearm in the second degree, which carries a potential 15-year sentence for first-time offenders.

    Despite sources claiming another individual had claimed ownership of the firearm, the case remains active with the next court hearing scheduled for March 27, 2026. Smith’s previous attorney, Marc B Laykind, confirmed he no longer represents the artist and was unaware of the ICE detention.

    Since the 2020 shooting, Smith relocated to the United States for orthopedic treatment and rehabilitation. During this period, he released two critically acclaimed albums, ‘Therapy’ and ‘Recovery,’ which documented his personal journey through physical healing, depression, and resilience. The artist gained prominence with his hit single ‘Tuff’ and solidified his status with a performance at Reggae Sumfest 2018.

  • Caricom to send humanitarian supplies to Cuba

    Caricom to send humanitarian supplies to Cuba

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – In a significant regional solidarity move, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) is mobilizing a major humanitarian assistance package for Cuba, which is grappling with a severe energy crisis marked by prolonged and widespread blackouts. This initiative gains urgency as external pressures, including longstanding US economic sanctions and oil supply restrictions, exacerbate the island nation’s infrastructural challenges.

    The aid operation, coordinated by the Caricom Secretariat headquartered here, was formally endorsed during the recent Caricom summit in Basseterre under the leadership of Chairman and St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew. While the precise dispatch date remains unspecified, the Secretariat confirmed the consolidation of essential supplies destined for Havana.

    The relief consignment will comprise vital nutritional and medical resources, including powdered milk, infant formula, and assorted non-perishable food items such as beans, wheat flour, rice, and canned goods. Recognizing the critical need for stable electricity, the shipment will also include solar panels, batteries, and water tanks to aid Cuba’s crippled power and water infrastructure.

    Adding substantial logistical support to the effort, the government of Mexico has partnered with Caricom by identifying local suppliers to procure the goods and will facilitate their transportation, providing free shipment from Mexican ports to Cuba. This collaboration highlights a broader regional commitment to mitigating the humanitarian impact of Cuba’s ongoing crisis, standing in contrast to the persistent US trade embargo aimed at inducing political and economic change in the country.

  • Shena Carty, a beloved champion for the needy, dies in Florida crash

    Shena Carty, a beloved champion for the needy, dies in Florida crash

    Shena Carty, a prominent Jamaican-American community advocate and philanthropist, tragically lost her life in a vehicular accident on Sunday in Winter Haven, Florida. The fatal incident occurred when a 2013 Mercedes attempted to make a turn and entered the path of her 2006 Suzuki motorcycle, according to witness accounts reported by Tampa Bay 8 media.

    Despite being an experienced motorcyclist with nearly two decades of riding experience, Carty was ejected from her vehicle upon impact. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the 47-year-old was not wearing protective headgear at the time of the collision, which contributed to the fatal outcome.

    Carty’s social media presence revealed her longstanding passion for motorcycling, with her final Facebook post showcasing a nostalgic throwback to her second motorcycle acquired in 2007. ‘I had a 600 Ninja for two years before this and I have no pictures of it anywhere. #Crazy I ain’t new to this,’ she wrote, demonstrating her extensive experience with two-wheel vehicles.

    The Jamaican native, who had emigrated from Hanover to the United States, regularly shared video content of her riding adventures. Her social media channels have since been flooded with emotional tributes and condolences from friends, family, and community members worldwide.

    Beyond her motorcycling enthusiasm, Carty was best known for her extraordinary humanitarian work. As the founder of the Facebook community ‘Jamaican Madhouse,’ she dedicated her life to supporting vulnerable individuals. Through this platform, she organized fundraising initiatives that provided critical assistance to seriously ill Jamaicans and distributed food to hundreds of local community members in need.

    Her 2017 interview with the Jamaica Gleaner revealed the depth of her commitment to charitable causes, positioning her as a beloved figure within both Jamaican and expatriate communities. The sudden loss has created a significant void in the philanthropic circles she actively supported.

  • #Champs2026: Edwin Allen’s Fowler on course to defend Class 2 1500m

    #Champs2026: Edwin Allen’s Fowler on course to defend Class 2 1500m

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The opening session of the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships at the National Stadium on Tuesday witnessed a compelling mix of dominant performances and unexpected upsets in the Girls’ 1500m qualifying heats.

    Defending champion Kevongaye Fowler of Edwin Allen High signaled her strong intent to retain the Class 2 crown, securing a comfortable second-place finish in her heat with a time of 5:07.92. She trailed only Keyah Anderson of The Queens School, who topped the qualification round with a leading time of 5:07.00.

    The qualifying rounds showcased impressive depth in the event. Sydney Pagon STEM Academy’s Alexia Palmer, last year’s Class 3 silver medalist, clocked 5:08.06, followed closely by Immaculate Conception’s Netanya Robinson (5:08.63) and Alphansus Davis’ Tambbrel Williams (5:09.76).

    In the other qualifying heat, Holmwood Technical’s Ashley Shepherd emerged victorious with a time of 5:15.30, finishing ahead of St Elizabeth Technical’s Shameika Dennis (5:17.16) and Hydel High’s Dallia Fairweather (5:18.76).

    The championships delivered a significant early blow to Edwin Allen High as defending Class 3 champion Aneka Lowe suffered a surprising elimination. Despite posting a respectable time of 5:12.11, Lowe finished 13th overall, failing to advance to the finals after placing outside the top six qualifying positions.

    Danoya Scott of Convent of Mercy Alpha Academy dominated the second Class 3 heat with an impressive 4:55.55 qualifying time, followed by St Jago High’s Shannaya Palmer (4:56.73) and Clarendon College’s Alexjordan Hall (4:59.17).

    Holmwood Technical’s Felicia Compass claimed victory in the first Class 3 heat with a time of 5:00.55, finishing ahead of Manchester High’s Shawntaesha Gooden (5:08.86) and Alphansus Davis’ Kayanna Douglas (5:03.54).

  • Abortion pill prescriptions surge in US states with bans — study

    Abortion pill prescriptions surge in US states with bans — study

    A significant shift in abortion access patterns is underway across the United States, according to new research from the Guttmacher Institute. The latest data indicates that women in states with abortion bans are increasingly turning to telehealth services for medication abortions rather than undertaking interstate travel for the procedure.

    The comprehensive report, published Tuesday, reveals that approximately 91,000 women residing in the 13 states with near-total abortion bans received abortion pill prescriptions through telehealth channels in 2025. This figure represents a striking increase of more than 25% compared to the 72,000 prescriptions documented in 2024.

    Concurrently, the research demonstrates a corresponding decline in cross-state travel for abortion services. The number of women journeying from restrictive states to those with more permissive laws dropped from 74,000 in 2024 to approximately 62,000 in 2025. Nationwide, the total number of individuals traveling for abortions decreased to 142,000 last year, down from 170,000 in 2024 and continuing a downward trend from 154,000 in 2023.

    Research authors Isaac Maddow-Zimet and Kimya Forouzan emphasized that these combined statistics indicate a fundamental transformation in how individuals access abortion care in states with complete bans. The dramatic rise in telehealth utilization coincides with the implementation of protective “shield laws” in eight states—California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Maine, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington—which safeguard healthcare providers from prosecution by states where abortion remains illegal.

    Despite the patchwork of state-level restrictions implemented following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn federal abortion protections, the national abortion rate remains remarkably stable. The report notes that recorded abortions in 2025 exceeded 1.12 million, maintaining levels consistent with 2024 and representing the highest rate documented since 2009.