标签: Jamaica

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  • Mandeville Regional Hospital performs first colonoscopy, expands cancer screening access

    Mandeville Regional Hospital performs first colonoscopy, expands cancer screening access

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a groundbreaking advancement for regional healthcare, Mandeville Regional Hospital has marked a medical milestone by successfully conducting its inaugural colonoscopy procedure. This achievement significantly enhances endoscopic capabilities and fortifies early detection mechanisms for colorectal cancer among communities in Manchester and adjacent parishes.

    The Southern Regional Health Authority formally disclosed this development through a social media announcement on Thursday. The institution confirmed that with the recent installation of a state-of-the-art endoscopy tower and completion of specialized certification training, the hospital is now fully equipped to broaden its screening services and accelerate diagnostic timelines.

    Dr. Andrew Josephs, Surgical Consultant at the facility, projected that upon full operational capacity, the hospital will perform approximately six to ten procedures daily. Initial focus will center on symptomatic patients requiring urgent investigation. Dr. Josephs highlighted the economic burden previously faced by residents, noting that private colonoscopy services ranged from $70,000 Jamaican dollars upward, creating substantial barriers to accessible healthcare.

    Addressing common patient concerns, Dr. Josephs clarified that colonoscopies typically involve minimal discomfort rather than significant pain. He further explained that individuals with normal results may not require repeat testing for seven to ten years, distinguishing colonoscopy from annual screenings like mammograms.

    The medical expert strongly advised residents aged 45-50 to consult healthcare providers regarding appropriate screening alternatives, emphasizing that early detection dramatically improves survival rates. He recommended stool-based blood tests as a preliminary option for those hesitant about endoscopic procedures.

    This medical breakthrough was made possible through philanthropic collaboration between Food For the Poor and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with technical facilitation provided by AA Laquis, the local distributor for Olympus medical equipment.

  • CPL to return to Jamaica in summer

    CPL to return to Jamaica in summer

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant development for Caribbean cricket, Jamaica’s Sports Minister Olivia Grange has confirmed the return of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) to the island nation alongside the establishment of a new franchise. The Cabinet-approved decision will see Jamaica hosting matches during the CPL 2026 season commencing in August.

    The announcement follows successful negotiations between the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and the Ministry of Tourism with CPL organizers. Minister Grange expressed particular enthusiasm about the timing coinciding with Jamaica’s Independence celebrations, creating an extended period of festivities that combines sporting excellence with cultural pride.

    “This arrangement represents more than just cricket matches,” Grange emphasized. “We have structured benefits that extend beyond the T20 games, including substantial opportunities to promote brand Jamaica and destination Jamaica through this partnership.”

    Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett highlighted the strategic importance of the CPL’s return, noting that it aligns perfectly with Jamaica’s urban tourism development goals. “The return of CPL to Kingston signals a renewed wave of energy for our urban tourism strategy,” Bartlett stated. “We are committed to showcasing fresh experiences, vibrant city offerings, and even more compelling reasons for visitors to choose Jamaica.”

    The collaboration between multiple government ministries and CPL organizers represents a comprehensive approach to sports tourism development. Minister Grange indicated that the new arrangement will significantly advance Jamaica’s cricket development program while simultaneously boosting tourism and national branding efforts.

    Additional details regarding match schedules, venue arrangements, and partnership specifics will be revealed at an upcoming press conference, according to ministry officials.

  • Police collar husband wanted in connection with 2024 murder of  British-Jamaican wife

    Police collar husband wanted in connection with 2024 murder of British-Jamaican wife

    Jamaican authorities have formally charged 39-year-old Angrea Morrison in the high-profile murder of his British-Jamaican wife, Dawn Anderson, following an extensive international investigation. The breakthrough comes over a year after Anderson’s body was discovered in a shallow grave in Petersfield, Westmoreland, on December 2, 2024.

    Morrison, who operated under multiple aliases including ‘Bredda-Bredda,’ ‘Ninjaman,’ ‘Badness,’ and ‘Andre,’ was apprehended during a targeted joint police operation in Montego Bay earlier this month. The construction worker and vendor, with documented addresses across four Jamaican parishes, had been evading capture since being identified as a person of interest alongside his twin brother, Kemar Morrison.

    The judicial process advanced on February 12 when Morrison was formally charged after participating in a questioning session with legal representation present. Prosecutors have built their case based on multiple witness statements, though court proceedings await final scheduling.

    The tragic sequence began when the couple arrived in Jamaica from the UK on November 24, 2024, checking into a Montego Bay hotel. After checking out the following day, Anderson’s family reported her missing on November 27 when communication ceased. Morrison initially claimed his wife was last seen in Negril.

    The investigation reached a critical turn when a local farmer alerted police to disturbed soil in Westmoreland. Excavation revealed Anderson’s body dressed in distinctive tribal-printed clothing. The victim, a 64-year-old businesswoman with roots in both Roaring River, Westmoreland and Manchester, England, had sustained fatal injuries.

    While Angrea Morrison now faces justice, his brother Kemar remains at large, with authorities continuing their search for the second suspect in this transatlantic tragedy.

  • Market Bag: Plenty of variety, good prices at fully organic Ujima market in St Andrew

    Market Bag: Plenty of variety, good prices at fully organic Ujima market in St Andrew

    The Ujima Natural Farmers Market in St. Andrew is emerging as a vibrant hub for fresh, locally-sourced produce, offering an impressive array of colorful and often uncommon vegetables. A recent weekend visit by Observer Online revealed a bustling marketplace where shoppers enthusiastically filled their bags with items such as Swiss chard, dinosaur kale, and Jamaican broccoli.

    Shoppers expressed strong preferences for supporting local agriculture. One customer emphasized the importance of buying Jamaican produce, stating, ‘I like to eat Jamaican first. I do my best not to buy imported food—that’s the main reason why I am here.’ This sentiment highlights a growing consumer trend toward prioritizing locally grown, organic food sources.

    The market’s pricing structure remains accessible, with items like escallion and tomato priced at $300 per pound, dinosaur kale at $400 per bunch, and celery at $600 per pound. Beyond shopping, the market experience was enhanced by a live culinary demonstration from Executive Chef Brian Lumley, who prepared a stir-fry noodle dish. Chef Lumley noted that Ujima ranks among his favorite markets specifically because of its commitment to being fully organic.

    The market’s success underscores a broader movement toward sustainable agriculture and community-supported food systems, offering both nutritional benefits and economic support for local farmers.

  • Residents not short-changed in delivery of services despite displacement — Falmouth mayor

    Residents not short-changed in delivery of services despite displacement — Falmouth mayor

    FALMOUTH, Jamaica — The Trelawny Municipal Corporation (TMC) is demonstrating remarkable resilience as it continues to provide essential public services despite operating from temporary facilities following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa in October 2025. Mayor C Junior Gager, who serves as both Falmouth’s mayor and TMC chairman, acknowledged the ongoing challenges while affirming the corporation’s commitment to parish residents.

    Addressing attendees during Thursday’s monthly council meeting at the Falmouth Artisan Village, Mayor Gager stated: ‘While our operations haven’t fully returned to normalcy, we remain dedicated to fulfilling our responsibilities and serving the citizens of this parish with the highest possible standards.’

    The municipal corporation has been conducting its operations from alternative locations since the Category 5 hurricane severely damaged critical infrastructure, including the historic Falmouth Courthouse that previously housed the TMC’s administrative offices and the mayor’s official parlour. Current municipal services are being delivered from the roads and works office within the town, with the mayor’s office now operating from a retrofitted shipping container on the same premises.

    Among the most significant recovery initiatives is the construction of a $150-million temporary facility to house displaced residents from the Trelawny Infirmary. These individuals have been temporarily accommodated at the Elleston Wakefield Community Center since the hurricane necessitated their evacuation. The new prefabricated structure, built from specially designed containers, will ultimately provide shelter for all 54 residents, with project completion anticipated in early 2026. Mayor Gager reported that construction is advancing satisfactorily.

    The mayor concluded with a message of solidarity: ‘I encourage everyone to maintain positivity despite the current displacement and discomfort. Through collective effort and determination, we shall overcome these challenges and emerge stronger.’

  • Thompson-Herah to open season in 60m at Camperdown Classic

    Thompson-Herah to open season in 60m at Camperdown Classic

    JAMAICAN SPRINT LEGEND EYES COMEBACK AT CAMPERDOWN CLASSIC

    Kingston, Jamaica – Five-time Olympic gold medalist Elaine Thompson-Herah is poised to make her highly anticipated return to competitive athletics this Saturday at the Camperdown Classic. The legendary sprinter, who secured consecutive Olympic doubles in both the 100m and 200m events at Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, will contest the 60m dash at Ashenheim Stadium in what marks her first competitive appearance since June 2024.

    The 33-year-old athlete last competed at the New York Grand Prix where she recorded an uncharacteristic 11.48 seconds in the 100m amid challenging wind conditions. Thompson-Herah’s absence from the track has been closely monitored by the athletics community given her status as Jamaica’s national record holder with an extraordinary 10.54 seconds in the 100m and the current 60m outdoor record holder at 7.02 seconds, established in 2017.

    This competition represents more than just a season opener – it serves as a critical indicator of Thompson-Herah’s current form under the guidance of new coach Reynaldo Walcott and her recently joined club, New Era. Her departure from the MVP Track Club and subsequent injury challenges have created significant intrigue around her competitive readiness.

    The Camperdown Classic 60m event, scheduled for 6:05 PM local time, will feature formidable opponents including emerging talent Thieanna Lee Terrelonge (Uptimum), who opened her season with 7.25 seconds, veteran sprinter Jura Levy (Swept) with a personal best of 7.24 seconds, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Saniqua Bascombe (Uptimum) who boasts a 7.22 second personal best.

    Track and field enthusiasts worldwide will be watching closely to assess whether the Jamaican superstar can rediscover the dominant form that made her the first woman in history to successfully defend both Olympic sprint titles.

  • Heart of Love V-Day show to cater to Christians

    Heart of Love V-Day show to cater to Christians

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Starliner Seafood, Wine Bar & Grill in Plantation Cove, St Ann is redefining Valentine’s celebrations with its specially curated ‘Heart of Love’ event targeting Christian couples seeking meaningful entertainment alternatives. The February 14th gathering addresses a identified gap in the market for faith-based social gatherings during romantic holidays.

    Event co-director Errol Henry explained the inspiration behind the initiative: “Our conversations with patrons revealed that Christian couples frequently desired more substantial celebrations than conventional restaurant dinners. They sought experiences aligning with their values while providing exceptional entertainment.”

    The evening’s program features gospel music icon Dr. Carlene Davis-Cowan alongside her husband Tommy as master of ceremonies. The performance lineup includes Shagga Tee and Desmond ‘Desi’ Jones, the event’s co-director and leader of the Skool Band.

    Tommy Cowan emphasized the spiritual dimension of the celebration: “Our nearly 45-year marriage stands as testimony to God-centered love. Carlene’s setlist will include both gospel favorites and love songs from our repertoire, including ‘Going Down To Paradise’ and ‘Everything I Own,’ all reflecting Christian values.”

    The schedule includes gates opening at 7:00 PM followed by dinner service at 8:00 PM. A pre-show entertainment segment runs from 9:00-10:00 PM preceding Dr. Davis-Cowan’s headline performance.

    Event sponsorship includes Visual Vibe, which has promoted the gathering through digital billboards in Ocho Rios featuring the headline artist. The venue offers two VIP ticket tiers providing comprehensive dining packages with beverage selections.

    Henry encourages attendance: “This represents an unparalleled experience—one inclusive price covers gourmet dining, premium entertainment, and an atmosphere celebrating love through faith.”

    Tickets remain available at the venue, Cove Electrical Plumbing and Hardware, and through online purchasing platforms.

  • Opposition raises concern over new taxes post-Hurricane Melissa

    Opposition raises concern over new taxes post-Hurricane Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition legislators from the People’s National Party (PNP) have raised significant apprehensions regarding potential new taxation measures targeting Jamaican citizens recovering from Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impacts. The concerns emerged as Parliament prepared for its official reopening on Thursday, with Finance Minister Fayval Williams scheduled to present the 2026-2027 national budget.

    Opposition Leader Mark Golding characterized the anticipated tax implementation as a “procyclical measure” that could exacerbate existing economic challenges. “With the economy having contracted and growth entering negative territory,” Golding stated while entering Gordon House, “imposing additional taxes during such depression tends to worsen economic conditions rather than alleviate them.”

    While acknowledging the governing Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) difficult fiscal decisions, Golding emphasized the potential negative consequences of taxation-based recovery strategies. He expressed particular concern about impacts on citizens’ cost of living and the pace of national economic recovery, noting he awaited specific budget details before forming definitive conclusions.

    Julian Robinson, Opposition Spokesperson on Finance and Member of Parliament for St Andrew South Eastern, highlighted the particularly challenging timing for western Jamaican communities devastated by the October 28, 2025 Category Five storm. Robinson emphasized that new taxes would impose “severe burden and hardship” on populations already facing job losses, business destruction, and displacement.

    The opposition officials indicated they would scrutinize the budget’s revenue measures, specifically examining which segments of the population would be affected and the nature of proposed taxation. Minister Williams’ 2:00 PM budget presentation is expected to outline the government’s comprehensive fiscal strategy for recovery and economic stabilization.

  • Man United’s Ratcliffe’s apologises for ‘language’ on immigration

    Man United’s Ratcliffe’s apologises for ‘language’ on immigration

    LONDON, United Kingdom—Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire co-owner of Manchester United, issued a formal apology on Thursday following widespread condemnation of his inflammatory comments describing the United Kingdom as “colonised by immigrants.” The Monaco-based industrialist had made the remarks during a televised interview where he linked immigration to economic strain.

    Ratcliffe, founder and chairman of the INEOS chemical conglomerate, expressed regret specifically for his “choice of language,” stating: “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe and caused concern.” He defended his underlying intention to highlight the need for “controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth.” The 73-year-old businessman emphasized that his comments were made during a discussion about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, focusing on economic growth, jobs, and manufacturing.

    The apology came after direct pressure from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose spokesman acknowledged the apology as “absolutely right” while reaffirming the government’s commitment to a “Britain built for all.” Despite the controversy, Finance Minister Rachel Reeves confirmed continued government support for Ratcliffe’s UK businesses, including the Grangemouth oil refinery in Scotland, though she characterized his original statements as “unacceptable” and “disgusting.

    Ratcliffe’s initial interview with Sky News included statistically inaccurate claims, asserting the UK population grew from 58 million in 2020 to 70 million currently. Official Office for National Statistics data confirms the population was actually 67 million in mid-2020 and just under 70 million in mid-2024.

    The football community reacted strongly, with anti-racism organization Kick It Out condemning the “disgraceful and deeply divisive” remarks and noting that such language “has no place in English football.” Several Manchester United supporters’ groups and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham also criticized the characterization of immigrants as a “hostile invading force.” The comments could potentially lead to disciplinary action from England’s Football Association for “bringing the game into disrepute.”

  • Foreign policy must be leveraged for economic independence — Holness

    Foreign policy must be leveraged for economic independence — Holness

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has issued a strategic directive to Jamaica’s diplomatic corps, emphasizing foreign policy as the cornerstone for achieving complete economic independence. Addressing heads of mission at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade on Wednesday, Holness declared the current decade pivotal for transforming Jamaica’s sovereignty from political autonomy to economic self-reliance.

    Holness articulated that while Jamaica has maintained political sovereignty since 1962, true independence remains ‘hollow’ without fiscal credibility, institutional robustness, competitive industries, and resilience against external shocks. ‘The only way to fulfil your political objectives is to make sure that you are economically independent,’ he stated, framing economic strength as the bedrock of national sovereignty.

    The Prime Minister tasked diplomats with leveraging Jamaica’s international credibility to attract investments, generate employment, and forge strategic partnerships. He emphasized their role as custodians of Jamaica’s global image, urging them to amplify the nation’s progress in macroeconomic management, post-pandemic recovery, and hurricane resilience—particularly referencing Hurricane Beryl’s devastation and the targeted reconstruction response.

    Holness also highlighted national security achievements, including reduced violence and homicide rates over the past three years, and instructed diplomats to communicate these gains globally. ‘We are moving towards peace, and that’s the message you will take to the global community,’ he asserted.

    This week-long consultative meeting—the first since 2018—includes 20 diplomatic and consular posts and 85 consulates. Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith characterized the gathering as an ‘internal reset’ to align foreign policy with evolving domestic and international landscapes, ensuring Jamaica’s priorities are advanced with professional conviction worldwide.