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  • Marathoner ‘Daddy Roy’ Thomas dies at 97

    Marathoner ‘Daddy Roy’ Thomas dies at 97

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican athletic community is mourning the loss of revered nonagenarian runner Roy Thomas, who passed away at age 97. Thomas, a fixture in the island’s running scene, was celebrated for his extraordinary longevity and dedication to the sport.

    The Reggae Marathon, Jamaica’s premier distance running event, officially announced Thomas’s passing in Kingston through a heartfelt social media tribute on Thursday. The organization honored his legacy as both a perennial participant and fervent supporter, highlighting his role as an inspirational figure for generations of athletes.

    Historical participation records indicate Thomas successfully completed numerous marathon and half-marathon events throughout his exceptional running career, demonstrating remarkable physical conditioning and mental determination well into his advanced years.

    The tribute concluded with poignant remembrance: “Daddy Roy/ Roy Thomas/ Uncle Roy 1928 – 2025. Gone but never forgotten!” – a testament to the multiple generations of runners who held him in affectionate esteem. His passing marks the conclusion of an era for Jamaica’s fitness community, though his legacy as an exemplar of lifelong wellness and athletic commitment endures.

  • Commerce ministry ramps up MSME recovery support

    Commerce ministry ramps up MSME recovery support

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant escalation of its post-hurricane economic rehabilitation strategy, Jamaica’s Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC) is implementing a multi-faceted support program for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This coordinated response addresses the persistent operational disruptions faced by businesses, particularly in the western regions of the island, despite progress in restoring essential utilities.

    Delano Seiveright, State Minister at the MIIC, emphasized that the recovery drive is being executed under the strategic direction of Minister Senator Aubyn Hill, prioritizing rapid, practical interventions. The core objectives are facilitating business reopenings, preserving employment, and stabilizing local economies. “Our approach is fundamentally centered on delivering tangible solutions with speed and precision,” Seiveright stated, highlighting the ministry’s commitment to removing obstacles for enterprise recovery.

    The ministry’s on-the-ground initiatives showcase a blend of immediate relief and long-term resilience building. Notable projects include the complete reconstruction of a cluster of 44 small shops in Border, St. Elizabeth, now engineered with enhanced hurricane and flood resistance. In Whitehouse, Westmoreland, commercial activity has been revived through the restoration of grocery operations and cold-storage capacity via targeted generator support.

    To date, direct assistance has reached over 600 MSMEs across the parishes of Trelawny, Hanover, St. Elizabeth, and St James. This support is being delivered through a combination of voucher systems and community-based measures designed to ensure the continued availability of essential goods.

    Spearheading the technical response, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) has amplified its islandwide engagement. Its efforts encompass comprehensive damage assessments, client reconnection services, and an emergency helpdesk, all informed by a national MSME survey to precisely tailor interventions. For medium-term recovery, the JBDC’s “Build Back Stronger” programme offers business coaching, product development, digital transformation support, and resilience planning.

    Concurrently, the National Export-Import Bank of Jamaica (EXIM Bank) has activated a suite of financial relief measures. These include moratoria on existing loans, reductions in associated fees, and expanded credit access for businesses impacted by the hurricane. This financial lifeline is specifically aimed at aiding working capital needs, equipment repairs, and supply-chain rehabilitation.

    Further facilitation has been rolled out across the Ministry’s portfolio agencies. The Jamaica Trade Board Limited has eased specific import permit and certification requirements to assist business retooling, while the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority has offered compliance flexibility and relocation support to sustain operations in manufacturing, logistics, and business process outsourcing.

    The Ministry confirms it is also collaborating with institutional partners, including the Development Bank of Jamaica, to channel recovery financing through dedicated initiatives like the M5 Business Recovery Programme, ensuring a cohesive and robust support ecosystem for Jamaica’s vital MSME sector.

  • Mobile skate tour for downtown Kingston this weekend

    Mobile skate tour for downtown Kingston this weekend

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – A transformative urban culture initiative is set to roll across Jamaica as the Jamaica Skate Culture Foundation (JSC) launches its national skateboarding tour with a three-day inaugural event in downtown Kingston from December 19-21.

    The groundbreaking event will commence at 10:00 AM on Water Lane, featuring an innovative mobile skate park installation designed to provide structured, safety-equipped skateboarding activities at no cost to participants. With particular emphasis on engaging inner-city youth, the program aims to democratize access to recreational sports while fostering community development.

    Friday and Saturday programming will specifically target young residents from urban neighborhoods, offering beginner-level skateboarding initiation sessions, supervised group activities with comprehensive protective gear, skate demonstrations, and street art workshops. The initiative takes an interdisciplinary approach to youth engagement through urban culture.

    On Sunday, the mobile skate park will integrate with Kingston Creative’s Grand Market – one of the city’s premier cultural events – by installing the facility at the intersection of Church Street and Water Lane. This strategic placement positions skateboarding within a broader creative ecosystem during the market hours.

    The Sunday schedule from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM will feature an institutional ceremony attended by distinguished representatives including Kevin Brown, President of the University of Technology, Jamaica (home to the Corporate Area’s sole skate club), alongside diplomatic officials from France and Germany.

    This Kingston launch initiates a nationwide tour continuing through 2026, with planned expansions to Portmore, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Montego Bay, Negril, Mandeville, and Treasure Beach.

    Established in 2020 as a registered charitable organization, the Jamaica Skate Culture Foundation employs skateboarding and urban culture as vehicles for youth development, educational advancement, social inclusion, and violence prevention. The foundation has secured international support, with France funding initial skate park development and instructor training, while Germany enables national mobility through support of the mobile facility.

    Beyond immediate youth engagement, the tour serves as an advocacy platform encouraging municipal governments and institutions to invest in permanent public skate parks as sustainable infrastructure for community development. According to foundation founder Remy Walter, the initiative operates ‘at the intersection of sport, education, culture, and social impact’ through international partnerships aimed at building ‘a better Jamaica.’

  • Anthony Patrick architects two upsets almost simultaneously

    Anthony Patrick architects two upsets almost simultaneously

    Veteran football strategist Anthony Patrick achieved an extraordinary coaching double on Wednesday, securing two significant victories across different competitions within hours. The seasoned mentor first guided underdogs Racing United to a stunning 1-0 victory against Caribbean champions Mount Pleasant FC, marking the latter’s inaugural defeat this Jamaican Premier League season. Demonstrating remarkable tactical prowess, Patrick immediately traveled from Ferdie Neita Park to Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex to oversee St Catherine High’s dramatic 3-2 Walker Cup semifinal triumph over perennial champions Kingston College.

    Racing United’s remarkable ascent continues as the second-year top-flight club now occupies second position in the league standings with 25 points from 12 matches, trailing leaders Montego Bay United by a single point. The decisive moment arrived during stoppage time when Damion Herrera’s 93rd-minute strike penetrated Mount Pleasant’s previously unbreached defense.

    Patrick revealed his comprehensive preparation methodology: “We conducted extensive analysis of Mount Pleasant’s tactical system and individual tendencies, developing specific strategies to neutralize their strengths. Our players executed the gameplan flawlessly, denying them opportunities to implement their preferred style.”

    The coach particularly emphasized squad discipline: “During pre-match preparations, I randomly questioned players about their specific responsibilities, and their precise responses demonstrated complete understanding of our tactical approach.”

    Following his first victory, Patrick delegated initial Walker Cup sideline duties to trusted assistant Theo Brown—his former Bridgeport protege from their 2006 Manning Cup triumph—before arriving during the second half. With St Catherine protecting a narrow 2-1 advantage against relentless Kingston College pressure, Patrick’s tactical adjustments proved decisive as Dwight Gentles secured his second goal in the 69th minute, ultimately ensuring the semifinal victory.

    Patrick elaborated on their strategic approach: “Theo and I identified vulnerabilities in Kingston College’s wingback positioning and ball-handling capabilities. We implemented a false-nine formation to exploit transitional opportunities, which our players executed magnificently.”

    The coach specifically praised standout performers Gentles and Kedean Young—whom he described as among schoolboy football’s elite talents—while expressing optimism about securing silverware for both school and parish in the upcoming final.

  • Reggae Boyz could face Nigeria in play-off after Super Eagles complaint against DR Congo

    Reggae Boyz could face Nigeria in play-off after Super Eagles complaint against DR Congo

    Jamaica’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup faces potential disruption as Nigeria launches a formal challenge against the Democratic Republic of Congo’s qualification. The Super Eagles have filed an official complaint with world football’s governing body alleging their opponents fielded ineligible players during last month’s African play-off final.

    The controversy centers on several players who recently switched international allegiance to represent DR Congo, including prominent figures Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe. The Nigeria Football Federation contends these athletes violated FIFA regulations by holding dual citizenship despite Congolese law prohibiting the practice. NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi asserted that FIFA was “deceived into clearing them” through what the federation considers fraudulent documentation.

    Should FIFA uphold Nigeria’s protest, it would fundamentally alter the inter-confederation playoff structure. Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz, initially scheduled to face New Caledonia in March with the winner advancing against DR Congo, might instead confront Nigeria for the coveted World Cup berth. This potential matchup would create a dramatic final qualification showdown between two nations separated by the Atlantic but connected through football’s global appeal.

    The Congolese Football Federation (Fecofa) has vehemently rejected the allegations, characterizing Nigeria’s challenge as an attempt to “win via the back door.” In a strongly worded social media statement, Fecofa declared that World Cup qualification should be determined “with dignity and confidence, not with lawyers’ tricks,” while simultaneously welcoming the formal investigation.

    The impending FIFA ruling carries significant implications for all involved federations, potentially reshaping the final qualifying landscape for the 2026 World Cup scheduled across North America and Mexico.

  • Rise Up Jamaica concert in Germany raises €45,000 for Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts

    Rise Up Jamaica concert in Germany raises €45,000 for Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts

    COLOGNE, Germany—An evening of powerful musical solidarity culminated in a significant humanitarian achievement as the Rise Up Jamaica benefit concert generated €45,000 (approximately J$8.5 million) for hurricane recovery efforts. The event, held at the Live Music Hall in Cologne, demonstrated the profound capacity of music to mobilize support for global causes.

    Organized by the Summerjam Festival, the concert assembled an impressive roster of internationally acclaimed artists with strong musical and cultural ties to Jamaica. The initiative was conceived as a direct response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa, with a designated focus on supporting the hardest-hit community of St Elizabeth.

    In a remarkable display of commitment, the Summerjam Festival implemented a dollar-for-dollar matching strategy, effectively doubling every contribution made throughout the evening. Marius Brozi, representing the festival, emphasized that this matching initiative symbolized their organization’s deep-rooted connection to Jamaica. He elaborated that Jamaica represents more than just musical inspiration for Summerjam—it is intrinsically woven into the festival’s cultural identity and core values, making the support effort both an obligation and an honor.

    The generated funds will be administered through Help Jamaica e.V., with primary allocation directed toward the comprehensive reconstruction of Black River High School in St Elizabeth. The educational facility suffered extensive structural damage during the hurricane, compromising safe learning environments. The infusion of capital will accelerate restoration efforts, prioritizing the prompt return to normal academic operations.

    Beyond the flagship high school project, a substantial portion of the raised proceeds will address needs at smaller educational institutions throughout affected districts, ensuring a coordinated recovery of the region’s entire educational infrastructure.

    The benefit concert featured electrifying performances by renowned artists including Gentleman, Bonez MC, Trettmann, Patrice, Kumar Fyah, Treesha, Inti, and Milaa. The event received additional support from key partners such as Live Music Hall, AVL, RAD, Ivan Backstage Catering, Gizeh, and numerous participating DJs and artists who contributed their talents pro bono.

  • TikTok signs joint venture deal to end US ban threat

    TikTok signs joint venture deal to end US ban threat

    In a strategic maneuver to preserve its operations across the United States, TikTok has formally entered into a pivotal joint venture agreement with a consortium of prominent investors. This arrangement, as detailed in an internal company memo acquired by major US media outlets, directly addresses longstanding national security concerns raised by American policymakers regarding the platform’s Chinese ownership.

    The agreement establishes a new US-based entity with major investment participation from Oracle, Silver Lake, and the Abu Dhabi-based MGX. According to TikTok CEO Shou Chew’s communication to staff, the ownership structure will see one-third held by existing ByteDance investors and nearly 20% retained by ByteDance itself—representing the maximum allowable Chinese ownership under US law.

    This corporate restructuring serves as TikTok’s compliance solution to legislation enacted during the Biden administration that mandated ByteDance either divest TikTok’s US operations or face an outright ban. US officials, including former President Donald Trump, have consistently expressed apprehension that Chinese authorities could potentially exploit TikTok’s sophisticated algorithm to harvest American user data or exert foreign influence.

    The newly formed US joint venture will function as an independent operation with comprehensive authority over critical areas including data protection protocols, algorithm security, content moderation systems, and software assurance. Meanwhile, TikTok Global’s US entities will maintain responsibility for global product interoperability and commercial activities such as e-commerce, advertising, and marketing initiatives.

    The deal, which required approval from Chinese authorities, represents the culmination of negotiations initially announced by the Trump administration in September. Oracle Executive Chairman Larry Ellison, a noted ally of former President Trump and one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, emerges as a central figure in this arrangement. Ellison has recently regained prominence through his collaborations with Trump on significant artificial intelligence partnerships with OpenAI, alongside his financial backing of his son David’s acquisition of Paramount and subsequent bidding competition with Netflix for Warner Bros.

  • Mona, St Catherine to contest Walker Cup final

    Mona, St Catherine to contest Walker Cup final

    A highly anticipated Walker Cup final matchup is set after both defending champions Mona High and St. Catherine High secured dramatic 3-2 victories in their respective semifinal clashes at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex.

    In the opening semifinal, Mona High secured their place in a second consecutive final by edging past a tenacious Charlie Smith side. The victory was fueled by goals from Franklyn Mitcham in the 38th minute, Savi-K Morton just four minutes later in the 42nd, and a decisive strike from Joenaldo Payne in the 59th minute. Charlie Smith demonstrated remarkable resilience, twice equalizing through Orlando Grant (39th) and Anthony Bryan (44th), launching a relentless offensive in the final stages. However, Mona’s defense held firm under intense pressure to clinch the narrow win.

    The second semifinal saw St. Catherine High exact a measure of revenge against Kingston College (KC), the team that had defeated them in last year’s Manning Cup final. St. Catherine’s triumph was spearheaded by a brilliant brace from Dwight Gentles, who found the net in both the 7th and 69th minutes. The impressive Kadean Young added a crucial third goal in the 44th minute. Despite a valiant late effort from KC, which included a spectacular long-range goal from Jamal Fraser in the 85th and a first-half stoppage-time strike from Kajay Fletcher, their comeback fell just short. KC was criticized for a performance lacking urgency and intent for large portions of the match, ultimately missing a golden opportunity to equalize in the final seconds.

    The stage is now set for a captivating final this Friday. Mona High, the 2024 champions, will be pursuing their second Walker Cup title, while St. Catherine High aims to claim its third crown, adding to previous victories in 2019 and 2021.

  • Jah Bouks summons African spirit as ‘Angola Festival’ grows into a major event for St Thomas

    Jah Bouks summons African spirit as ‘Angola Festival’ grows into a major event for St Thomas

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Reggae artist Jah Bouks is dramatically expanding his annual Angola Festival into a landmark cultural celebration, scheduled for December 31st at Angola Restaurant in Old Pera, St Thomas. The transformation positions the event as a significant addition to Jamaica’s entertainment calendar, featuring headline performances by Capleton, Jamal, and Jah Bouks himself.

    In an exclusive statement, Jah Bouks revealed his ambitious vision: “I envision this becoming Jamaica’s premier festival, and I’m confident we can achieve this transformation authentically.” The lineup includes prominent artists Stalk Ashley, Shane O, Eddy G Bomba, Moyann, Nation Boss, Short Ghad, Quick Cook, Macka Diamond, Predator, Seventeen, Bushman, Bascom X, and Money Pallet.

    The festival’s branding derives from Jah Bouks’ massively successful track “Call Angola,” released over ten years ago. The artist has strategically built his business ventures around this recognizable identity. “I’ve committed to branding all my business endeavors under the Angola name because of the track’s monumental impact. This festival represents the culmination of that vision,” he explained.

    This year’s event carries poignant significance as it marks the first celebration since the passing of Jah Bouks’ mother, Zyon Panton, earlier this year. The artist expressed that while his mother had passionately supported the festival’s development and had envisioned parallel events in Ghana, the Jamaican edition will honor her legacy through its expanded scale and cultural importance.

    Originally conceived as a modest party, the Angola Festival has evolved into a major cultural happening at a time when many live events have scaled back. Jah Bouks emphasized his continuous effort to elevate the event: “Each year I’ve intentionally expanded the vision, and this year represents its full manifestation as a true festival.”

    Born in Winchester, St Thomas, before relocating to Portmore, St Catherine in 1980, Jah Bouks gained national recognition through the Magnum Kings and Queens competition. His musical career has remained grounded in Pan-African principles, distinctly contrasting with contemporary trends. “Africa remains central to our cultural identity,” Jah Bouks asserted. “The continent offers tremendous support for authentic reggae music and represents our philosophical foundation.”

  • Caribbean countries benefit from PAHO vaccine initiative

    Caribbean countries benefit from PAHO vaccine initiative

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – A significant health infrastructure initiative is transforming vaccine distribution capabilities across the Caribbean region. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), with substantial funding from the Government of Canada, has deployed approximately 1,000 units of advanced cold chain equipment to 18 Caribbean territories including Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Maarten.

    This strategic enhancement addresses critical logistical challenges in vaccine preservation through state-of-the-art temperature-monitoring devices, passive cold boxes engineered for complex environments, vaccine carriers with extended thermal protection, and ice-lined refrigerators featuring freeze-protection technology. The equipment ensures vaccine potency from port arrival to final community distribution points.

    Santiago Cornejo, Executive Manager of PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, emphasized the transformative impact: “This new cold chain infrastructure fundamentally strengthens national capacities to safeguard every vaccine dose throughout the distribution journey. These technological solutions enhance safety protocols, minimize wastage, and promote equitable immunization access across diverse geographical challenges.”

    The donation constitutes a core component of Canada’s broader initiative “Improving Equitable Access and Coverage of COVID-19 Vaccination in Latin America and the Caribbean,” implemented by PAHO to reinforce regional public health systems beyond pandemic response.

    Concurrently, PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds mechanism continues to demonstrate remarkable efficiency. Through pooled purchasing and coordinated planning, participating nations have achieved approximately 50% cost savings on vaccines and medical supplies over the past two years, extending vital health resources to an estimated 180 million people across the Americas. This collaborative procurement model has historically supported advancements against HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, while simultaneously improving immunization coverage and reducing maternal and child mortality rates.