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标签： Jamaica

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  • Tru-Juice can take lead in Zone A of JFF Championships

    Tru-Juice can take lead in Zone A of JFF Championships

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Football Championships (JFC) enter a pivotal weekend with several compelling matchups that could reshape the league standings. All eyes focus on York Oval where second-place Tru-Juice FC, the competition’s sole undefeated team, challenges struggling Baptist Alliance in a 3:30pm showdown that could propel them to Zone A leadership.

    Tru-Juice FC enters the match with impressive consistency, accumulating 14 points from six games while trailing idle leaders Sakka Club Browns Town by just two points. Their offensive trio of Kurtel Lawes, Daniel Roberts, and Lamard Neil—responsible for eight of the team’s ten goals—poses a significant threat to Baptist Alliance’s defense, which has conceded twenty goals amid recent back-to-back losses.

    Meanwhile, Falmouth United seeks their fourth consecutive victory against St Bess United at Munro College. After a sluggish start, Falmouth has demonstrated remarkable defensive solidity, maintaining clean sheets throughout their three-game winning streak while scoring ten of their fourteen total goals. Kayvon Donaldson and Phelan Christie’s improved scoring form contrasts sharply with St Bess United’s offensive struggles, having managed only two goals all season.

    In other Saturday fixtures, Lime Hall Academy attempts to rebound from their surprising home defeat to Tru-Juice last weekend when they host Meadforest FC at Drax Hall. Carlos Campbell (four goals) and Sajay Anderson (three goals) lead Lime Hall’s offensive efforts. Roaring River FC, despite last week’s unusual eight-player defeat to Humble Lion FC, remains positioned to narrow Zone B’s five-point gap when they host Holland United, who have conceded fourteen goals in their previous three matches.

    Duncans United, fresh from their first seasonal victory against STETHS Elite, pursues consecutive wins against Petersfield FC at Trelawny Multipurpose Stadium. The complete schedule includes Progressive FC vs Grays Inn and WiFi United vs Jamaica Defence Force at Carder Park, with Sunday featuring Reno FC vs STETHS Elite FA at Llandilo Community Centre.

  • Silver surge

    Silver surge

    Jamaican sprint sensation Kishane Thompson delivered a blistering performance at the World Indoor Athletics Championships in Torún, Poland, securing the silver medal in the men’s 60-meter dash with a personal best time of 6.45 seconds on Friday. The reigning World and Olympic 100m silver medalist demonstrated his explosive starting power but ultimately finished behind American newcomer Jordan Anthony, who captured the gold with a season’s best mark of 6.41 seconds.

    The podium was completed by another US sprinter, Trayvon Bromell, who took bronze in the tightly contested final. Jamaica’s medal haul continued beyond the track as Jordan Scott claimed silver in the men’s triple jump competition, underscoring the Caribbean nation’s strong showing at the championships.

    A photograph captured by AFP depicts the dramatic finish, showing Thompson alongside Bromell, Britain’s Jeremiah Azu, and gold medalist Anthony in a near-simultaneous crossing of the finish line, highlighting the minimal margins that separate world-class sprinters at this elite level of competition.

  • One in eight ABMs still down months after hurricane — BOJ data

    One in eight ABMs still down months after hurricane — BOJ data

    Five months after Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica’s southwestern region, the nation’s Automated Banking Machine (ABM) network continues to operate below pre-storm capacity according to latest central bank data. The Bank of Jamaica’s Thursday report reveals approximately 12% of the country’s ABM infrastructure remains inoperative, creating significant financial access disparities between urban and rural communities.

    The Category 4 hurricane made landfall on October 28, 2025, particularly impacting southwestern parishes with destructive winds and flooding. While national ABM availability has reached 88% of pre-hurricane levels, this aggregate figure masks concerning regional discrepancies. The parishes of St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland and St. James demonstrate notably slower recovery rates, with functional ABM rates languishing between 70-78% – substantially below the national average.

    This geographical disparity has created a two-tier financial recovery system. Metropolitan Kingston has not only restored full operational capacity but occasionally exceeds pre-Melissa service levels during peak periods. Meanwhile, rural communities face persistent cash access challenges due to combination of infrastructure damage, unreliable power grids, and logistical complications in equipment repair and replacement.

    Financial analysts note the recovery pattern reflects broader infrastructure trends, with commercial hubs and high-traffic urban areas receiving priority restoration. This concentration of functioning ABMs in economic centers has raised concerns about financial inclusion and equitable access to banking services across socioeconomic and geographic divides.

    The prolonged recovery timeline highlights the vulnerability of financial infrastructure to climate events and the complex challenges of restoring services in remote areas. Banking institutions continue to address technical and operational hurdles while working toward comprehensive network restoration, though no definitive timeline has been established for full recovery.

  • Action star Chuck Norris dead at 86

    Action star Chuck Norris dead at 86

    LOS ANGELES – The entertainment world mourns the loss of cultural icon Chuck Norris, who passed away Thursday morning at age 86. The martial arts champion and Hollywood action star, best known for his lead role in the long-running television series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” died peacefully surrounded by family on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, according to a family statement released Friday.

    The family’s Instagram announcement remembered Norris as both a global symbol of strength and a devoted family man: “To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family.” The family requested privacy regarding details of his passing.

    Tributes poured in from across the entertainment and political spheres. Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated: “All of Texas mourns the passing of Chuck Norris. He was not only a martial arts champion, action icon, and the one and only Walker, Texas Ranger.” Action film contemporary Jean-Claude Van Damme added: “My heart and prayers are with his family. He will never be forgotten.”

    Former President Donald Trump, who counted Norris as a supporter, recalled: “He was a really good, tough cookie. You didn’t want to fight him.”

    Norris’s remarkable journey began in Ryan, Oklahoma, where he was born Carlos Ray Norris on March 10, 1940. He discovered martial arts while serving in the U.S. Air Force in South Korea, eventually leaving military service in 1962 to establish a martial arts studio in Los Angeles. His competitive excellence yielded six world professional middleweight karate championships between 1968 and 1974, with black belts earned in multiple disciplines.

    His acting career launched with a 1968 cameo in Dean Martin’s “The Wrecking Crew,” but his breakthrough arrived four years later through an epic fight scene with Bruce Lee in “The Way of The Dragon.” This catapulted Norris into a series of leading roles in karate films throughout the 1970s and 80s, including “Good Guys Wear Black” and “Silent Rage.”

    His career-defining role came in 1983 as a taciturn Texas ranger in “Lone Wolf McQuade,” which established the template for the immensely popular “Walker, Texas Ranger” television series that ran for eight seasons and spawned countless internet memes and jokes about his seemingly invincible persona.

    Fans began gathering at his Hollywood Walk of Fame star Friday, with Los Angeles resident Mike Ravizza reflecting: “We grew up on Chuck Norris because he was more like a father figure to us.”

    Norris’s personal life included two marriages—30 years with high school sweetheart Dianne Holechek and subsequently with Gena O’Kelley—through which he had five children. He survived two cardiac arrests in 2017 and later courted controversy as a spokesperson for firearm manufacturer Glock amid America’s ongoing gun violence epidemic.

  • White Gad records drops retaliation riddim project

    White Gad records drops retaliation riddim project

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — White Gad Records has launched a seismic force in contemporary dancehall music with the release of the Retaliation Riddim, a meticulously crafted juggling project engineered for global impact. Spearheaded by Canadian-Jamaican producer Corey ‘White Gad’ Stoneham, the project represents a strategic effort to revitalize the classic dancehall tradition of rhythm juggling for the digital age.

    The Retaliation Riddim distinguishes itself through its architectural sound design, featuring tectonic bass foundations, hypnotic melodic sequences, and an undeniable energy calibrated for dancefloor ignition. Stoneham, whose production pedigree bridges North American and Caribbean music markets, stated with definitive purpose: “We ah build back juggling,” signaling a dedicated mission to restore this foundational element of dancehall culture.

    Volume One of the project is spearheaded by Future Fambo’s viral anthem “God A Mi Don,” which has already generated substantial momentum through its accompanying prayer warrior dance phenomenon. The compilation showcases an intentional blend of established icons and ascending talent: Busy Signal delivers commanding presence on “Roll Up Loud,” while Tommy Lee Sparta contributes razor-sharp intensity on “Code Up.” The collaborative effort between Jamal and Digital Sham produces the tropical infusion of “Miami Vibes,” and Qraig Voicemail maintains elevated energy levels with the assertive “Watch Di Point.

    Strategic release planning involves weekly single and visual premieres throughout February, with Tanto Blacks’ “Live Rich” slated as the next visual presentation later this month. The project consciously platforms emerging voices in the dancehall evolution, including One Don, Nhance, and Ai Millie alongside established figures.

    What distinguishes the Retaliation Riddim is its dual-capacity authenticity: it maintains the raw credibility required to move sound systems in Kingston’s dancehall epicenters while possessing the polished production quality to compete on international streaming platforms from Toronto to Tokyo. This synthesis of traditional sound system culture and digital distribution represents a new paradigm in dancehall production.

    Stoneham characterizes the project as exceeding musical categorization: “Retaliation is not just a riddim. It is a movement — and it is just getting started.” The statement positions White Gad Records at the forefront of both musical innovation and cultural preservation within the global dancehall landscape.

  • Guyana warns of economic disruption due to Middle East war

    Guyana warns of economic disruption due to Middle East war

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana—The Guyanese government has issued a stark warning about the potentially severe global economic repercussions stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict, with particular emphasis on the escalating tensions disrupting the vital Strait of Hormuz. Addressing the 136th General Meeting of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), President Irfaan Ali articulated deep concerns that the instability in this critical energy corridor threatens worldwide economic stability, including that of Guyana.

    President Ali expressed solidarity with international appeals for diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolution to de-escalate the situation. “I join with President Trump in the United States in urging all parties in the Gulf to move towards dialogue and constructive conversations to normalize the situation,” he stated, highlighting the universal impact of the crisis.

    The context of this warning follows the February 28 military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian missile infrastructure, military installations, and leadership targets in Tehran and beyond, which resulted in the death of Iran’s long-serving Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has intensified operations targeting U.S. forces and has increasingly focused on energy and maritime infrastructure throughout the Gulf. These actions, including threats to commercial shipping and reported attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, have significantly reduced tanker traffic and ignited international anxiety over potential disruptions to energy supplies.

    President Ali underscored the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a maritime passage responsible for facilitating 20 to 25 percent of global seaborne oil trade and substantial volumes of natural gas. He reported that disruptions have already begun to strain global markets, citing that 17 percent of Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity has been recently affected. The ripple effects are manifesting in increased costs across multiple sectors; fertilizer prices have surged by 25 percent, a development that portends direct consequences for international agriculture and food production networks.

    “These are essential components for manufacturing, industrial development, and most economies around the world,” Ali told the assembled business leaders. He cautioned that even an immediate cessation of hostilities would not avert long-term challenges, estimating that damage to the Gulf’s energy infrastructure could require up to five years for full repair. The heightened risks have already precipitated a sharp rise in freight, transport, and maritime insurance costs, further straining global trade logistics.

    In response to these mounting global energy uncertainties, President Ali announced a renewed governmental initiative to establish a domestic oil refinery, framing it as a critical national security priority. Despite Guyana’s emergence as a significant oil-producing nation, it remains heavily dependent on imported fuel, particularly for electricity generation. The substantial fuel expenses incurred by Guyana Power and Light Inc. are vulnerable to global price shocks, and investing in domestic refining capacity is envisioned as a strategic move to gain greater control over fuel supply, pricing, and long-term energy security.

    This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance national energy infrastructure, including the ongoing gas-to-energy project, which aims to reduce reliance on imported fuels and ultimately lower electricity costs. President Ali concluded by emphasizing the necessity of close collaboration between the government and the business community to navigate the volatile global environment and sustain Guyana’s robust economic growth, affirming, “We are vigilant, we are responsible, and we stand ready to make the necessary adjustments.”

  • Agricultural Protection Branch to step up patrols in southern Trelawny amid yam theft concerns

    Agricultural Protection Branch to step up patrols in southern Trelawny amid yam theft concerns

    Jamaican authorities are launching a reinforced security initiative to combat agricultural theft in Trelawny, the nation’s primary yam-producing region. Inspector Orville Bushay, head of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Agricultural Protection Branch for Area One, has unveiled a comprehensive strategy involving increased police patrols and collaborative farmer watch groups.

    Commencing next week, specialized teams will conduct daily 12-hour patrols (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM) in the hilly farming communities of southern Trelawny. The operation will include systematic vehicle checks on all routes entering and exiting these agricultural zones.

    The security plan further involves establishing three organized farmer watch groups in Albert Town, Warsop, and Troy. These groups will work in coordination with police units for nighttime patrols, creating a joint security framework. Initial meetings with the Warsop community are scheduled for the second Tuesday of next month, followed by engagements with the other communities.

    This security enhancement comes as yam farmers struggle to recover from Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on crops. The hurricane-induced scarcity has driven market prices to unprecedented levels, with reports of yam tubers reaching $50,000 per hundred pounds. Unfortunately, this price surge has correspondingly increased theft incidents, as criminals target valuable yam heads from freshly planted fields.

    Farmers report that theft patterns directly correlate with market prices, with criminals systematically digging up planted yam heads shortly after planting. The new security measures aim to break this cycle of agricultural crime while supporting the community’s recovery efforts.

  • KSAMC moves to enforcement phase of signage regularisation campaign

    KSAMC moves to enforcement phase of signage regularisation campaign

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Municipal authorities in Kingston are preparing to implement stringent enforcement measures against non-compliant business signage after a voluntary regularization campaign yielded minimal participation. The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) announced it will transition to Phase Two of its signage compliance initiative beginning April 1, following disappointing results from its incentive-based approach.

    Initiated in January 2026, the campaign initially offered businesses a 20 percent discount to encourage voluntary adherence to municipal signage regulations. Despite comprehensive outreach efforts and stakeholder engagement, only 16 percent of businesses have complied with the requirements, prompting authorities to adopt a more assertive enforcement strategy.

    Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby recently convened a strategic meeting with senior officials from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Areas 4 and 5 to coordinate enforcement capabilities. The collaboration aims to ensure consistent application of signage regulations across the Corporate Area while maintaining public order during compliance operations.

    Assistant Commissioner of Police Michael Phipps, Head of Area 4, pledged full operational support to the municipal corporation, stating: ‘The KSAMC is a very significant stakeholder, and as such, the KSAMC has our full support in ensuring that their duties are carried out in a safe and peaceful manner.’

    Mayor Swaby emphasized the transitional nature of the campaign, noting: ‘This campaign has always been about partnership and progress. We provided ample opportunity for voluntary compliance through incentives and public education. As we now move into enforcement starting April 1, our goal is to ensure fairness, order, and a level playing field for all businesses.’

    During the initial phase, KSAMC engaged extensively with various stakeholders, including business operators, umbrella organizations such as the Small Business Association of Jamaica and the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ), and the general public through targeted radio advertisements and awareness initiatives.

    The forthcoming enforcement phase will involve intensified monitoring, systematic inspections, and corrective actions against non-compliant entities. Municipal authorities are urging remaining business operators to promptly regularize their signage before the enforcement measures take effect.

  • Netanyahu denies denigrating Jesus by comparing him to Genghis Khan

    Netanyahu denies denigrating Jesus by comparing him to Genghis Khan

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vehemently denied allegations of disrespecting Christian beliefs following his controversial comparison between Jesus Christ and Mongol conqueror Genghis Khan. The remarks, made during a Thursday evening press conference with foreign journalists, triggered immediate backlash across social media platforms.

    Netanyahu took to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday to clarify his position in English, stating: ‘More fake news about my attitude towards Christians, who are protected and flourish in Israel. Let me be clear: I did not denigrate Jesus Christ at my news conference.’ The Prime Minister attributed the historical reference to American historian Will Durant, describing him as ‘a fervent admirer of Jesus Christ.’

    The original controversial statement saw Netanyahu asserting that ‘history proves that, unfortunately and unhappily, Jesus Christ has no advantage over Genghis Khan because if you are strong enough, ruthless enough, powerful enough, evil will overcome good.’ This philosophical argument was deployed to justify Israel’s recent military actions against Iran, characterizing the February 28 joint Israeli-US strike as necessary defense against Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

    Christian leaders, particularly from the Holy Land, expressed profound offense at the comparison. Munther Isaac, a Palestinian Lutheran pastor from Bethlehem—recognized as Jesus’s birthplace—denounced the statement as ‘offensive on multiple levels’ via social media. Pastor Isaac criticized the underlying implication that ‘the way of Jesus is naive, while a ruthless, might makes right approach… is what ultimately allows good to overcome evil.’

    The incident highlights the delicate intersection of religious sensitivity and geopolitical justification as Netanyahu continues to navigate international relations amid ongoing regional conflicts.

  • ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star Chuck Norris has died

    ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star Chuck Norris has died

    LOS ANGELES—The entertainment world mourns the loss of martial arts icon and Hollywood action star Chuck Norris, who passed away Thursday morning at age 86. The Norris family confirmed his sudden death through an emotional statement posted on Instagram Friday.

    Family members remembered Norris not only as a global symbol of strength and discipline but as ‘the heart of our family’—a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and incredible brother. The statement highlighted how he lived with profound faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved, inspiring millions worldwide through his work and kindness.

    The legendary fighter turned actor reportedly fell ill on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, where he had been residing. Remarkably, just last week, Norris celebrated his 86th birthday by sharing a video of himself boxing on social media with the caption: ‘I don’t age. I level up.’

    Norris’s extraordinary career spanned decades, beginning with his uncredited debut in the 1968 Dean Martin film ‘The Wrecking Crew.’ His breakthrough came four years later in an epic big-screen battle with kung-fu superstar Bruce Lee in ‘The Way of The Dragon,’ cementing his status as a martial arts film icon. This launched him into a successful acting career that peaked with his starring role in the long-running television series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger.’

    His cultural impact extended far beyond cinema, generating countless memes and jokes about his seemingly superhuman abilities, making him one of America’s most enduring pop culture figures.