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标签： Jamaica

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  • Clarien Bank to acquire NCB’s Cayman unit in internal reorganisation

    Clarien Bank to acquire NCB’s Cayman unit in internal reorganisation

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant strategic consolidation of its offshore financial services, NCB Financial Group Limited (NCBFG) has announced the acquisition of NCB (Cayman) Limited by Clarien Bank Limited, its majority-owned subsidiary. This internal reorganization, pending regulatory approvals, will integrate the group’s Cayman Islands-based wealth management and banking operations under a unified platform.

    The transaction involves the structured transfer of select wealth and investment management client relationships from NCB’s Cayman operations to Clarien Bank, in which NCBFG currently maintains a 50.10 percent controlling interest. According to Group Chief Executive Officer Robert Almeida, this realignment represents a deliberate strategy to enhance operational coherence and strengthen focus across the financial group’s regional businesses.

    Following completion of the transaction, NCB (Cayman) Limited will undergo rebranding under the Clarien name. NCBFG emphasized that the reorganization is not anticipated to materially affect capital adequacy, liquidity, or ownership structure.

    Clarien CEO Ian Truran characterized the acquisition as supporting the bank’s strategic expansion into selective offshore markets, calling it “an exciting new chapter” for the institution. The bank has committed to ensuring a seamless transition for both clients and staff from NCB (Cayman) Limited and NCB Capital Markets (Cayman) Ltd.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of NCBFG’s evolving ownership strategy regarding Clarien. Earlier efforts to reduce exposure through a partial divestment expired in May 2025 without extension. Conversely, a separate disclosure from June 2025 indicated NCBFG’s potential acquisition of an additional 17.92 percent stake in Clarien, which would elevate its ownership to 68.02 percent if finalized. The group has stated that neither transaction is expected to significantly impact financial performance.

    Throughout the transition, clients will continue to be served by their existing relationship teams with no anticipated disruption to daily operations.

  • Guyana president says SIDS must be given a seat at the table to discuss impact of climate change

    Guyana president says SIDS must be given a seat at the table to discuss impact of climate change

    BELMOPAN, Belize – In a powerful address to the Belize Parliament, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali issued a compelling call for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to secure formal representation in global climate change discussions. Speaking during his official three-day visit to the Caribbean Community nation, President Ali emphasized that climate change presents the most urgent existential threat confronting vulnerable island nations across the world.

    The Guyanese leader detailed the severe consequences already impacting SIDS, including rising sea levels, intensifying storm systems, prolonged drought periods, and extensive coastal erosion. These environmental crises directly endanger human lives, economic stability, and long-term development prospects for millions of citizens in climate-vulnerable regions.

    President Ali presented a transformative vision for SIDS engagement in climate solutions, explicitly rejecting the concept of charitable handouts. Instead, he advocated for market-based approaches that properly value the natural assets these nations protect. “We possess real assets,” President Ali declared. “Our natural resources form part of the global ecosystem that sustains life on Earth, and this value must be appropriately recognized and compensated.”

    The president highlighted the exemplary environmental stewardship demonstrated by both Guyana and Belize, noting their critical contributions to global ecosystem services including carbon sequestration, biodiversity protection, and climate regulation. He revealed alarming global statistics, noting that approximately 60% of biodiversity assets have been lost worldwide over the past six decades.

    Guyana’s pioneering Climate Biodiversity Alliance and innovative Low Carbon Development Strategy were presented as model approaches. Through jurisdictional carbon credit mechanisms, Guyana has demonstrated that preserved forests generate greater economic value standing than when cleared, creating sustainable revenue streams while maintaining ecological integrity.

    President Ali further addressed the interconnected crisis of food security, noting that over 700 million people currently face hunger globally with billions experiencing moderate or severe food insecurity. He praised Caribbean nations for establishing ambitious targets to reduce regional food import bills by 25%, emphasizing the need for sustained agricultural investment, technological adaptation, climate-resilient farming practices, and enhanced agro-processing capabilities.

  • Ex wilfully infected partner with a STD

    Ex wilfully infected partner with a STD

    Jamaican legal expert Margarette May Macaulay has addressed a pressing question regarding legal options for individuals who have knowingly been infected with incurable sexually transmitted diseases by their partners. This response comes amid ongoing concerns about the protection of sexual health rights in the country.

    The inquiry stemmed from a woman’s devastating discovery that her former partner, an asymptomatic carrier of herpes, had transmitted the incurable infection to her without disclosure. The man claimed his health status was personal business despite the profound consequences for his partner.

    While Jamaica lacks specific legislation criminalizing the willful transmission of STIs, Macaulay revealed that existing legal frameworks provide potential recourse. Notably, the Child Care and Protection Act (2004) addresses transmission of communicable diseases to children, and the Sexual Offences Act (2009) specifically criminalizes marital rape when a husband knows he suffers from an STI.

    Most significantly, Macaulay explained that courts have recognized that knowingly transmitting an STI can constitute causing grievous bodily harm or wounding under the Offences Against the Person Act. She emphasized that consent becomes invalid when a partner conceals their STI status, potentially elevating the offense to rape in legal terms.

    The legal advocate confirmed that victims can pursue both criminal charges and civil lawsuits for damages. She encouraged affected individuals to consult with competent civil attorneys to file claims in the Supreme Court, noting that sufficient statutory provisions and case law exist to support such actions.

    This legal guidance highlights the ongoing need for clearer legislation, as a 2018 parliamentary committee recommendation to amend the Offences Against the Person Act specifically for STI transmission cases remains unimplemented, leaving many victims in legal limbo.

  • France set for first NFL regular-season game in 2026

    France set for first NFL regular-season game in 2026

    PARIS — The National Football League (NFL) has confirmed its strategic international expansion will include France as a new host nation for regular-season games starting in the 2026 season. This landmark decision positions Paris among the elite global cities selected to showcase American football at its highest level.

    The New Orleans Saints have been designated as the home team for this historic contest, which will take place at the renowned Stade de France. This venue, celebrated for hosting major international sporting events, will provide the backdrop for the NFL’s inaugural regular-season matchup in French territory. The specific date and opposing team will be formally announced during the league’s full schedule release in spring 2026.

    NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized the significance of this move: “Introducing a regular-season game to Paris in 2026 represents a pivotal advancement in our ongoing global expansion efforts. As one of the world’s premier destinations for both sport and culture, Paris exemplifies the type of vibrant international market where we believe American football can thrive.”

    The selection of New Orleans stems from the NFL’s Global Markets Program, which grants exclusive international marketing rights to specific teams. The Saints maintain established promotional privileges throughout France, enabling them to cultivate local fan engagement through targeted events and commercial initiatives.

    This Parisian game will contribute to the growing tally of NFL contests held outside United States borders. Since the international series launched in 2005, 62 regular-season games have been staged across numerous global destinations including London, Munich, Madrid, Mexico City, and São Paulo.

    The league’s global ambitions extend beyond European markets. The 2026 season will also feature the NFL’s inaugural Australian game at Melbourne Cricket Ground, while Rio de Janeiro’s legendary Maracanã Stadium is scheduled to host another international contest, further solidifying the league’s commitment to worldwide growth.

  • Trump says Mexico will ‘cease’ sending oil to Cuba

    Trump says Mexico will ‘cease’ sending oil to Cuba

    WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump announced Monday that Mexico will cease oil shipments to Cuba, potentially exacerbating the island nation’s most severe economic crisis since the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991. The declaration came during an Oval Office press briefing where Trump characterized Cuba as “a failed nation.”

    This development follows the earlier suspension of Venezuelan oil supplies after Nicolás Maduro’s ouster, which had previously sustained Cuba’s economy through subsidized energy imports. The termination of Mexican supplies would represent another critical blow to Cuba’s struggling infrastructure.

    Trump’s administration has implemented punitive tariffs targeting nations that continue oil trade with Cuba, effectively forcing trading partners to choose between engagement with the global economic powerhouse or the impoverished Caribbean island of 11 million people.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had previously expressed reluctance to sever energy ties, warning of potential “far-reaching humanitarian consequences affecting hospitals, food distribution, and essential services for Cuban citizens.” However, with the United States serving as Mexico’s primary trading partner, potential tariff implications pose significant risks to Mexico’s already sluggish economic growth.

    Despite Sheinbaum’s assertion of “everlasting solidarity” with Cuba, she acknowledged during recent statements that “We don’t want to put our country at risk in terms of tariffs.” Notably, she claimed that Thursday’s phone conversation with Trump did not include discussions regarding Cuban oil supplies.

    Trump indicated ongoing communications with Cuban leadership, stating “I think we are pretty close, but we are dealing with the Cuban leaders right now,” though providing no specific details. This was partially corroborated by Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, who acknowledged intergovernmental communications while clarifying that no formal dialogue table currently exists between the nations.

  • Sandra Davis’ heart of gold

    Sandra Davis’ heart of gold

    In the landscape of community service, Sandra Davis operates with an understated yet formidable presence that defies conventional expectations of leadership. Unlike those who command attention through vocal dominance, Davis exerts influence through persistent action and unwavering commitment—a quality that has earned her the affectionate nickname ‘Energiser Bunny’ among Kiwanis members across Eastern Canada and the Caribbean’s Division 23 East.

    Her journey into service began not through formal instruction but through familial example in Rollington Town, Kingston. After relocating to Harbour View, St Andrew—where she has resided for 49 years—Davis cultivated a philosophy of constancy that would define her approach to human connections and organizational commitments. During her education at St Hugh’s High School, she balanced athletic pursuits in netball and track with early involvement in Key Club, the student-led service organization under Kiwanis International.

    Despite assuming her Kiwanis chapter had concluded after graduation, Davis continued serving through ecclesiastical and alumni associations until 2004, when then-president of the Kiwanis Club of New Kingston, Lola Chin Sang, recognized her potential and reintegrated her into the movement. This pivotal encounter ignited a decades-long dedication that would merge her academic achievements—including degrees in Professional Management, MBA, and Master of Laws in Corporate Governance—with 36 years of managerial expertise.

    Davis’ leadership style transcends titular achievements. Having no biological children, she channels maternal energy into mentoring youth across eight Service Leadership Programme schools, fostering relationships characterized by moral clarity and sustained personal investment. Her innovative vision materialized in 2018 through the establishment of Jamaica’s first corporate Kiwanis club within the Jamaica Fire Brigade—a groundbreaking expansion of the organization’s reach.

    Currently serving as Distinguished President of the Kiwanis Club of New Kingston while campaigning for Lieutenant Governor Elect of EC&C Division 23 East (2026-2027), Davis embodies her motto: ‘To Serve with Love and Lead by Example.’ Her accolades—including multiple Kiwanian of the Year awards and the Ruby K Pin for recruiting 30 new members—are routinely deflected into conversations about collective achievement rather than personal recognition.

    Beyond Kiwanis, she serves as Justice of the Peace, chairman of the Harbour View Primary School Finance Committee, and church usher, demonstrating that her renewable energy springs from profound ethical grounding rather than ambition. Colleagues describe her as ‘little but tallawah’—a Jamaican expression denoting small stature with mighty spirit—capturing the essence of a leader who transforms quiet consistency into monumental impact.

  • St Kitts and Nevis implements new initiative to safeguard CBI programme

    St Kitts and Nevis implements new initiative to safeguard CBI programme

    The Federation of St Kitts and Nevis has announced the implementation of mandatory biometric data collection for its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, marking a significant enhancement to its national security infrastructure. This strategic initiative, scheduled for rollout before the conclusion of the first quarter, will apply to both new applicants and existing economic citizens, positioning the Caribbean nation alongside international security standards observed by the European Union, United States, and United Kingdom.

    Executive Chairman of the Citizenship Unit Calvin St Juste emphasized that the biometric measures reinforce the nation’s dedication to preserving the integrity of its citizenship programme while functioning as a responsible participant in global security efforts. The enhanced protocols will require all new CBI applicants to submit biometric identifiers during the application process. Existing economic citizens will be granted an extended compliance period to facilitate a seamless transition to the new requirements.

    Notably, the biometric mandate exclusively targets individuals who have obtained or are seeking citizenship through investment channels, with no implications for native-born citizens of St Kitts and Nevis. Detailed implementation guidelines and timelines for existing programme participants will be disseminated in the coming weeks.

    The government asserts that this advancement demonstrates its proactive stance toward evolving global security challenges and reinforces the international credibility of its travel documents. The Citizenship Unit has committed to providing comprehensive assistance throughout the transition period, ensuring both applicants and current citizens receive necessary support.

  • Ministry of Health urges caution as windy weather continue to affect Jamaica

    Ministry of Health urges caution as windy weather continue to affect Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued a comprehensive public health advisory as a western cold front induces unusually cool temperatures and powerful winds across the island. The meteorological shift presents dual threats of physical injury from environmental hazards and health complications for vulnerable demographics.

    The ministry’s official release highlighted specific dangers associated with the high-velocity winds, warning citizens about potential injuries from airborne debris and flying objects. Authorities strongly recommend minimizing outdoor activities and exercising extreme caution when performing essential outdoor repairs.

    Simultaneously, health officials emphasized the compounded risks during the ongoing influenza season. Cooler temperatures may adversely affect elderly residents and individuals with pre-existing conditions such as sickle cell disease. The ministry advised wearing appropriate clothing to maintain body temperature and reduce vulnerability to viral infections. Free influenza vaccinations remain available at public health centers nationwide.

    A significant portion of the advisory addressed generator safety precautions amid potential power disruptions. The ministry explicitly warned against indoor generator usage due to carbon monoxide risks, recommending placement in well-ventilated outdoor areas away from structures. Citizens were further cautioned to avoid using heating-element appliances like toasters and hair dryers when relying on generator power, with additional reminders to verify voltage compatibility between appliances and power sources.

    The ministry concluded by directing those experiencing weather-related illnesses or injuries to seek immediate medical attention at nearest healthcare facilities.

  • 60 years of rocksteady

    60 years of rocksteady

    As Jamaica prepares to commemorate the 60th anniversary of rocksteady music in 2026, the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) will host a landmark gathering of the genre’s surviving architects. The ‘Back 2 Bass-es’ forum, scheduled for February 4 at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in St. Andrew, will feature legendary bassists Boris Gardiner, Jackie Jackson, and Lloyd Parks sharing firsthand accounts of music history.

    These instrumental pioneers shaped the distinctive sound that bridged ska and reggae, with Jackson having served as the backbone of producer Duke Reid’s Supersonics band during rocksteady’s golden age (1966-1968). His basslines defined timeless classics including Alton Ellis’s ‘Rock Steady’ and The Wailers’ ‘Thank You Lord.’ Jackson notably expresses profound admiration for fellow panelist Gardiner, whose work at Clement ‘Sir Coxsone’ Dodd’s Studio One provided creative inspiration despite the legendary rivalry with Reid’s Treasure Isle label.

    Gardiner’s understated yet revolutionary bass techniques powered anthems like The Heptones’ ‘Party Time’ and Marcia Griffiths’s ‘Feel Like Jumping.’ Meanwhile, Parks transitioned from vocalist with The Techniques to becoming one of reggae’s most sought-after bassists during the 1970s, contributing to definitive works by Dennis Brown and Ken Boothe.

    The event forms part of JaRIA’s Reggae Month programming, addressing what Jackson identifies as a critical knowledge gap: ’99 percent of aspiring bass players and young musicians have no knowledge of the rocksteady era.’ This living history initiative aims to inspire new generations through direct engagement with the creators who established Jamaica’s musical legacy.

    Music historians generally credit Hopeton Lewis’s 1966 recording ‘Take It Easy’ as the first rocksteady composition—a transitional style that replaced ska’s upbeat tempo with slower, bass-heavy rhythms that ultimately catalyzed the global explosion of roots reggae.

  • Jolyan Silvera pleads guilty to manslaughter in wife’s death

    Jolyan Silvera pleads guilty to manslaughter in wife’s death

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a dramatic courtroom development, ex-Parliament member Jolyan Silvera has entered a guilty plea to manslaughter charges concerning the fatal shooting of his spouse Melissa Silvera in 2023. The case has drawn significant public attention, unraveling a narrative that initially pointed to natural causes.

    The tragic incident dates back to November 10, 2023, when Melissa Silvera, a respected land developer and mother of four, was discovered deceased at the couple’s residence in Stony Hill, St Andrew. While early reports suggested the 42-year-old had succumbed to natural causes during sleep, a subsequent police investigation revealed three bullet fragments within her body, prompting a murder probe.

    Authorities took Silvera into custody in January 2024, where he has remained detained throughout judicial proceedings. The couple had been married since 2015, with their family tragedy compounded by the previous loss of one of their four sons.

    The legal representation includes defense attorneys Peter Champagnie King’s Counsel and Patrice Riley advocating for Silvera, while prosecutors Dwayne Green and Latoya Bernard are presenting the case for the Crown. The guilty plea represents a significant turning point in a case that has captivated Jamaican society, highlighting issues of domestic violence and judicial accountability.