KINGSTON, Jamaica — A tragic incident in the Mount Pleasant district of St Elizabeth has resulted in the death of a 60-year-old laborer, Jerome Laws, following a violent altercation on Saturday, September 20. Shamar Barnes, a 29-year-old farmer from the Lititz district, has been charged with murder and wounding with intent in connection with the fatal stabbing.
标签： Jamaica
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RED STICKER REALITY
In the aisles of supermarkets, bright red stickers promising ‘special offers,’ ‘value packs,’ and ‘buy one, get one free’ deals are a common sight. For many shoppers, these promotions are a welcome relief during tough economic times. However, a closer look reveals that not all deals are as they seem. A recent mini-poll conducted by the Jamaica Observer highlighted mixed experiences among consumers. While some shoppers found genuine value in these promotions, others encountered products nearing their expiry dates or even infested with bugs.
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PAHO releases new guidelines to help combat vaccine misinformation
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has unveiled a set of innovative guidelines aimed at equipping health professionals and other key stakeholders with the tools necessary to identify and counteract vaccine misinformation. This initiative comes in response to the escalating threat posed by false information, which has the potential to erode public trust in immunization and hinder public health advancements across the Americas. The guidelines are tailored for a diverse audience, including health workers, national immunization program managers, health communicators, journalists, educators, and content creators, to enhance their ability to discern and address misleading vaccine-related narratives. Daniel Salas, executive manager of PAHO’s Special Programme for Comprehensive Immunization, emphasized that even brief exposure to vaccine misinformation can significantly impact individuals’ perceptions and their willingness to get vaccinated. The documents highlight common tactics used to disseminate false information, such as the misuse of data, emotional appeals, conspiracy theories, and the selective use of facts to lend credibility to false claims. Additionally, the guidelines provide practical advice on identifying red flags in misleading materials, such as grammatical errors, sensationalist headlines, and excessive use of capitalization. PAHO underscores the critical role of health workers as trusted sources of information and offers recommendations for addressing patient concerns with empathy and transparency. For journalists, the guidelines suggest strategies for balanced, evidence-based reporting to avoid inadvertently spreading anti-science narratives. Educators are provided with classroom activities designed to enhance students’ media, digital, and health literacy, encouraging critical evaluation of information encountered online. PAHO stresses that combating misinformation must be part of broader efforts to build trust and increase vaccination coverage. Salas noted that while addressing misinformation is crucial, it is not a standalone solution. In regions with low vaccination rates, PAHO encourages the use of tools like microplanning and insights into social and behavioral drivers to better understand community perceptions and logistical barriers. Through these guidelines, PAHO aims to bolster vaccine confidence, strengthen national immunization programs, and sustain the Americas’ leadership in vaccination, a cornerstone of public health achievement in the region.
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Number of children displaced in Haiti nearly doubles to 680,000—UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed on Wednesday that approximately 680,000 children in Haiti have been displaced due to escalating gang violence, marking a near doubling of the figure from the previous year. The agency emphasized the urgent need for international intervention to address the humanitarian crisis engulfing the Caribbean nation. In a stark report, UNICEF highlighted that over 3.3 million children are in dire need of humanitarian aid, describing their plight as a ‘daily struggle for survival.’ Roberto Benes, UNICEF’s Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, underscored the severity of the situation, stating, ‘Haiti is at a breaking point. This generation cannot keep waiting for help to come.’ The UN has documented over 2,269 grave violations against 1,373 children in 2024 alone, including killings, injuries, sexual violence, and forced recruitment by gangs. Alarmingly, UNICEF estimates that 2.7 million people, including 1.6 million women and children, reside in gang-controlled territories, constituting nearly a quarter of Haiti’s population. The report warned that without immediate restoration of protection services, an entire generation risks growing up in a perpetual state of fear, violence, and exploitation.
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Trump says Israel, Hamas agree to first phase of peace plan
In a significant development, former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed on Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of his Gaza peace plan, describing it as a “historic and unprecedented” move toward ending the two-year conflict. The agreement, brokered during talks in Egypt, outlines a hostage-prisoner exchange and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Trump, via his Truth Social network, stated that Hamas will release all hostages, while Israel will withdraw its troops to a mutually agreed line, marking the first steps toward a lasting peace. He extended gratitude to mediators Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, emphasizing their pivotal role in the negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed optimism about bringing the hostages home, while Hamas submitted a list of Palestinian prisoners it seeks to have released. The negotiations, attended by key figures including Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, unfolded amidst global pressure to end the war, which has devastated Gaza and claimed thousands of lives. The deal also includes provisions for a ceasefire, Hamas’s disarmament, and a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the territory. As anticipation built in Gaza, residents expressed cautious hope, with celebratory chants and gunfire echoing in the air. The agreement, however, comes against the backdrop of immense human suffering, with over 67,000 casualties reported in Gaza and ongoing humanitarian crises. Trump hinted at a potential visit to the region to solidify the deal, underscoring his commitment to the peace process.
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Relief and regret
Jamaica’s Health and Wellness Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton, has been exonerated by the Integrity Commission (IC) regarding allegations of involvement in the awarding of a $15-million contract to the communications agency Market Me. The IC’s investigation, which spanned over five years, concluded that there was no evidence of direct involvement by Tufton in the procurement process. However, the commission noted that his introduction of Market Me to the ministry could have indirectly influenced the contract awards, totaling $78.5 million over four years. The IC also highlighted procurement irregularities, particularly the use of direct contracting methods, and recommended stricter adherence to procurement laws. Tufton expressed relief at the findings, stating that they vindicate his integrity and allow the public to understand the facts clearly. He also emphasized the success of the Jamaica Moves campaign, which aimed to reduce non-communicable diseases, and apologized for the reputational damage caused to non-political actors involved in the controversy. Market Me, in its response, affirmed its commitment to integrity and professionalism, expressing readiness to continue serving its clients.
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WATCH: Children, teenagers among 6 shot in Kingston Central drive-by
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A shocking drive-by shooting in Kingston Central on Tuesday night left six individuals injured, including two nine-year-old children and two teenagers. The violent incident unfolded at the intersection of Text Lane and Charles Street, where a group of people were reportedly targeted by armed assailants in a vehicle. The attackers opened fire indiscriminately before swiftly fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported thus far. Beresford Williams, Head of the Kingston Central Police Division, confirmed that law enforcement officers are actively monitoring the area to prevent potential reprisals. ‘We are taking a pre-emptive approach to secure the place and ensure public safety,’ Williams stated in an interview with Observer Online. The police have launched a thorough investigation into the incident, though no suspects have been identified as of yet. This brazen act of violence has raised concerns about public safety in the region, prompting calls for increased security measures.
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US faces travel delays as government shutdown wears on
The ongoing US government shutdown has intensified concerns over widespread flight delays and unpaid federal workers, as senators failed to reach a resolution on Wednesday. Democrats have repeatedly blocked Republican proposals to reopen government departments, leaving much of the federal workforce either at home or working without pay. Now in its eighth day, the shutdown has led to increased absenteeism among airport security and safety staff, causing growing lines at major hubs across the country. Air traffic controllers, deemed essential, are required to work but are increasingly calling in sick due to financial stress, resulting in staffing shortages. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported issues at nearly a dozen airports, including Chicago, Boston, and Houston, with further disruptions anticipated at Newark, a key hub for the New York City area. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the strain on air traffic controllers, urging them to return to work despite their financial anxieties. He noted that over half of current flight delays are due to staffing shortages, a significant increase from the usual 5 percent. FlightAware reported approximately 10,000 delayed flights on Monday and Tuesday, with the FAA warning of potential worsening conditions. The shutdown shows no signs of ending soon, as Democrats insist on extending health care subsidies for 24 million people in any funding bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has repeatedly pushed for a temporary fix, but Democratic opposition remains steadfast. Meanwhile, President Trump has hinted at converting furloughs into permanent layoffs, exacerbating fears among federal workers. A White House memo has further unsettled employees by suggesting they may not receive back pay. The crisis is set to deepen next Wednesday when 1.3 million active-duty service members and thousands of National Guard and Coast Guard personnel miss their first paychecks.
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Lasco lines up new plant for year-end sales rush
Lasco Manufacturing Limited, renowned for its iCool brand, is set to enhance its production capabilities with the installation of a new Italian processing and filling plant at its White Marl, St Catherine facility. This strategic move, expected to be operational within the next three months, aims to increase beverage output by 40%, just in time for the high-demand festive season. The initiative is part of a comprehensive $1.1 billion retooling program extending through 2026, as confirmed by Director Vincent Chen during the company’s annual general meeting. Chen emphasized that the investment is a pivotal step in driving efficiency, reducing costs, and expanding export opportunities, stating, ‘We’re not sleeping; we’re actively seeking ways to grow.’ The retooling effort comes amidst a challenging financial landscape. For the fiscal year ending March 2025, Lasco reported a modest 3% revenue increase, a significant drop from the 18.6% growth recorded two years prior. Net profit, however, edged up 8% to $2.2 billion. The first quarter of the new financial year saw a 10% decline in sales revenue to $2.92 billion, with net profit dipping to $618.3 million from $701.7 million in the previous year. Deputy General Manager Lisa Watt attributed the softer performance to local market contraction and global economic pressures. The company’s expansion strategy is designed to fortify its position in the competitive fast-moving consumer goods sector, both domestically and internationally. Last year, Lasco secured a partnership with a major US retailer, marking a significant step in broadening its distribution beyond the Caribbean diaspora. While details of the agreement remain undisclosed, executives view it as a cornerstone of their export growth strategy. Lasco’s diverse product portfolio, ranging from powdered foods to beverages, continues to drive its market presence. Watt highlighted the necessity of retooling aging equipment to enhance efficiency and asset returns, noting that the new plant will significantly boost productivity and support innovation. Despite shareholder concerns over declining revenue growth and asset returns, Watt reassured stakeholders that the retooling program, coupled with product innovation and export expansion, will restore double-digit growth. Additionally, Lasco plans to invest in compressors, pumps, and an expanded ozonation system to further reduce costs and improve quality, reinforcing its resilience against supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties. The company has allocated $1.1 billion for capital investments from 2024 to 2026, with $425 million already spent in the past fiscal year.
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WATCH: Nursing students receive laptops from Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost to their academic pursuits, nursing students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona have been gifted new laptops by the Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation. The donation ceremony was held at the Faculty of Medical Sciences on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in the students’ educational journey. Diana Stewart, head of the foundation, lauded the students for their unwavering dedication and service, hailing them as ‘quiet heroes in moments of crisis.’ She highlighted the evolving role of technology in healthcare, stressing its importance in modern nursing practices. ‘Technology is now an essential part of patient care, from digital health records to telemedicine,’ Stewart remarked. She emphasized that access to such tools is critical for learning, research, and professional preparation. The donation, she noted, is not merely a contribution of equipment but an investment in the future of Jamaica’s healthcare sector. Stewart expressed her hope that the laptops would enable students to conduct research, complete assignments, and collaborate effectively, fostering the efficiency and flexibility required in today’s world. The gesture underscores the foundation’s commitment to education and its mission to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals. ‘May these laptops serve you well, and may you continue to serve with excellence, compassion, and pride,’ Stewart concluded.