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标签： Jamaica

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  • Antigua defends decision to recruit nurses from Ghana

    Antigua defends decision to recruit nurses from Ghana

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has vigorously defended its controversial decision to recruit nursing professionals from Ghana, characterizing the move as an essential strategy to address critical staffing shortages within the nation’s healthcare system. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph emphasized that the recruitment initiative directly responds to longstanding challenges in maintaining adequate nursing staff levels, which have resulted in widespread burnout and compromised patient care standards.

    Speaking at a press conference alongside senior health officials, Minister Joseph articulated the government’s position: “The reality of overworked and exhausted nursing professionals inevitably compromises the quality of patient care. This recruitment program represents a strategic opportunity to comprehensively address this systemic issue.” The minister extended formal gratitude to the technical teams and permanent secretary for their instrumental roles in facilitating the international recruitment process.

    This development follows last week’s announcement that the Gaston Browne administration has formalized agreements to contract over 100 Ghanaian nurses. Government officials have been careful to note that this new arrangement with Ghana does not signify termination of existing healthcare partnerships with Cuba, despite increasing diplomatic pressure from the United States urging Caribbean nations to discontinue collaborations with Cuban healthcare programs.

    According to an official Cabinet communiqué, approximately 120 Ghanaian nurses are scheduled to arrive during the January 23, 2026 weekend. These healthcare professionals will be strategically deployed across multiple medical facilities, with primary placements at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre supplemented by assignments at community health clinics and educational institutions.

    Permanent Secretary for Health Stacey Gregg-Paige provided detailed insights into the recruitment methodology, revealing that the selection process occurred in Accra during September 16-22, 2023 under the framework of Ghana’s Labour Exchange Program. The recruitment drive received 190 applications, with 32 candidates eliminated due to documentation deficiencies or eligibility concerns. The remaining 158 applicants underwent rigorous competency-based evaluations, resulting in 127 candidates being identified as suitable for subsequent vetting by the Antigua & Barbuda Nursing Council.

    Gregg-Paige emphasized the procedural integrity of the initiative: “This recruitment process operates under a formally established memorandum of understanding and service agreement that underwent comprehensive legal review. The Ministry of Legal Affairs has confirmed full compliance with national legal frameworks, ensuring this initiative maintains transparency and adherence to all regulatory requirements.”

    Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Medical Director of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, outlined the orientation protocol designed to facilitate the integration of incoming nursing staff. The three-week onboarding program will provide comprehensive system familiarization for both international recruits and local healthcare professionals joining the institution.

    The nation’s healthcare system currently employs 260 local nurses supplemented by 33 Cuban healthcare professionals. With the addition of 120 Ghanaian nurses, the total nursing complement will reach 413—slightly exceeding the government’s stated requirement of 400 nurses for optimal healthcare delivery.

  • Cavalier SC, MBU score five goals each in JPL wins

    Cavalier SC, MBU score five goals each in JPL wins

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Wednesday’s Jamaica Premier League fixtures witnessed extraordinary offensive displays as both defending champions Cavalier SC and league frontrunners Montego Bay United secured resounding 5-1 and 5-0 victories respectively.

    Cavalier SC demonstrated remarkable form following their seasonal break, overpowering Dunbeholden FC with a decisive 5-1 triumph at Stadium East. Simultaneously, Montego Bay United maintained their commanding league position with a flawless 5-0 shutout against Spanish Town Police FC at Royal Lakes Complex.

    These performances marked the most substantial victories for both clubs this season, significantly impacting the league standings. Montego Bay United strengthened their championship pursuit by extending their lead to six points, while Cavalier SC ascended to fourth position in the competitive table.

    The scoring commenced for Cavalier SC with Kwayne Thompson’s 35th-minute header breaking the deadlock. Second-half fireworks followed as Dwayne Allen’s spectacular 23-yard strike in the 60th minute doubled the advantage. Substitute Odane Wilberforce contributed a third goal in the 74th minute, followed by an unfortunate own goal from Dunbeholden FC. Despite Stephen Barnett’s consolation penalty conversion in the 85th minute, Jerome McCleary sealed the commanding victory with a stoppage-time finish.

    Montego Bay United’s offensive masterclass featured Jourdain Fletcher’s double strike, reclaiming his position as the league’s sole scoring leader with 11 goals. The scoring cascade began with Deverow McKenzie’s 19th-minute volley, followed by Fletcher’s long-range precision in the 22nd minute. Jahmari Clarke ended his scoring drought in the 60th minute before Dwight Merrick and Fletcher completed the rout with clinical finishes.

    The comprehensive victories underscore the offensive prowess of Jamaica’s top football clubs while dramatically reshaping the Premier League landscape as the season progresses toward its climax.

  • ‘My expertise is not in tending flowers’

    ‘My expertise is not in tending flowers’

    Marlene Street Forrest, the recently retired Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE), has made a swift return to the financial sector by establishing her own consultancy firm. Having concluded her 26-year tenure at the JSE in September 2025—a period the exchange hailed as exceptionally transformational—Street Forrest announced the launch of Street Forrest Business Consultancy Ltd in January 2026.

    The venture represents a strategic redirection of her expertise rather than a conventional retirement. In interviews with Jamaican media, Street Forrest clarified that her motivation stems from identified gaps in corporate governance structures across businesses of all sizes. “I’ve seen where there are many things in business where small, medium, and even large companies need help,” she explained, specifically highlighting deficiencies in governance frameworks and unwritten operating procedures.

    Her consultancy model will leverage the extensive network and knowledge she accumulated leading the Caribbean’s premier securities exchange. Services will encompass policymaking guidance, regulatory assistance, and hands-on mentorship programs for corporate clients. Beyond immediate structural improvements, Street Forrest envisions contributing to regional capital market development, potentially assisting other Caribbean nations in establishing or strengthening their stock exchange operations.

    The consultancy will operate through a collaborative model, engaging external experts and credible industry providers to deliver comprehensive services. Street Forrest also expressed particular interest in supporting social sector organizations through pro bono or reduced-rate arrangements.

    She measures success not by visibility but by systemic impact: creating robust governance systems that continue functioning long after her engagement concludes. This approach, she believes, will ultimately foster stronger enterprises, better-governed institutions, and more confident investment environments throughout the region.

  • Jamaican-American legislator first to officially endorse NY governor for re-election

    Jamaican-American legislator first to officially endorse NY governor for re-election

    NEW YORK — In a significant political development, Assemblyman Brian Cunningham, a Jamaican-American representative from Brooklyn’s 43rd District, has officially declared his support for Governor Kathy Hochul’s re-election campaign. This endorsement marks the first from a state legislator in the upcoming race.

    Cunningham, who entered the Assembly in March 2022, emphasized the productive working relationship he has cultivated with the Governor. He highlighted that their collaboration is fundamentally rooted in achieving tangible outcomes for Brooklyn residents, noting that Hochul has consistently demonstrated her commitment through decisive action rather than mere rhetoric.

    The Assemblyman pointed to substantial state investments exceeding US$1.3 billion allocated to his district under Hochul’s administration. These funds have been strategically directed toward critical areas including affordable housing initiatives, transportation infrastructure, educational programs, public safety enhancements, economic development projects, and community infrastructure improvements.

    Addressing rumors about potentially joining the ticket as Hochul’s running mate, Cunningham described these investments as transformative for Central Brooklyn communities. He praised the Governor’s approach to equity, emphasizing her understanding that genuine progress requires meeting communities at their point of need and allocating resources where they are most essential.

    Cunningham, who grew up in a working-class household with Jamaican immigrant parents, commended Hochul’s leadership style as being characterized by compassion, competence, and a profound dedication to working-class New Yorkers. He expressed anticipation toward continuing their partnership in building a stronger, safer, and more affordable New York for all residents.

    Prior to his legislative role, Cunningham built an extensive career in public service through positions in government operations, community development, and nonprofit leadership. His experience includes serving as Chief of Staff in the New York City Council and later as a Special Assistant in the New York State Senate. Currently, he holds the position of First Vice Chair at the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislators, Inc.

  • Sagicor Foundation says 2023 Sigma Run funds used to purchase CT scanner for UHWI

    Sagicor Foundation says 2023 Sigma Run funds used to purchase CT scanner for UHWI

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Sagicor Foundation has issued a detailed clarification regarding the allocation of funds from its 2023 Sigma Corporate Run, following allegations of financial misdirection raised by opposition health officials. The philanthropic organization confirmed that proceeds designated for the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) were exclusively utilized to procure a computed tomography (CT) scanner for the institution’s pediatric department.

    Official records indicate the 2023 charity event generated J$91,852,500 (approximately US$580,000), with designated beneficiaries being both the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and UHWI’s Pediatric Unit. According to the foundation’s Wednesday statement, a disbursement of US$495,000 (roughly J$79.2 million) was transferred to an authorized Philips medical equipment distributor in 2024 to secure the diagnostic imaging technology.

    The foundation’s response comes after Dr. Alfred Dawes, health spokesman for the opposition People’s National Party, publicly demanded accountability regarding approximately J$75 million raised specifically for pediatric care. Dr. Dawes characterized alleged discrepancies in fund allocation as ‘deeply concerning,’ emphasizing that donations collected for critically ill children must be applied exclusively to their promised purposes.

    Medical procurement timelines reveal the CT scanning equipment was shipped in early December 2025, with anticipated delivery to Jamaica scheduled for February 2026. The Sagicor Foundation emphasized its commitment to operational transparency, stating all financial distributions strictly adhere to its governance framework and are fully accounted for through official channels.

    The developing situation highlights increasing public scrutiny over charitable fund management in Jamaica’s healthcare sector, particularly regarding corporate-sponsored initiatives targeting vulnerable patient populations.

  • Nigy Boy Singer lands two hot releases in January

    Nigy Boy Singer lands two hot releases in January

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Nigy Boy is strategically positioning himself for international breakthrough following his explosive 2024 breakthrough year. With two recently released singles already generating significant buzz, the artist is demonstrating his evolution from emerging talent to visionary musical force.

    The entertainer, who gained prominence with 2024 hits including ‘Continent’ and ‘Judgement,’ has maintained deliberate silence since last summer’s ‘Options’ release. This calculated pause preceded his January comeback with tracks ‘Hush’ and ‘Risk It All’ – both already achieving remarkable digital traction within their first two weeks of release.

    ‘Risk It All’ has garnered nearly 900,000 YouTube views since its debut, while ‘Hush’ has accumulated 386,000 views since its release just one week ago. This immediate audience response signals strong potential for his 2026 campaign.

    In an exclusive statement to the Jamaica Observer, Nigy Boy revealed his strategic approach: ‘My plan centers on consistently delivering quality music that meets fan expectations. Since the audience ultimately determines what becomes successful, I’m committed to providing music that maintains momentum without disappointment.’

    The artist distinguishes between his objectives for 2024 versus 2026: where previous efforts focused on establishing visibility and proving his artistic legitimacy, the current year will emphasize international expansion and musical diversification. This includes an extensive touring schedule across North America and Bermuda, with confirmed performances in Atlanta, North Carolina, Connecticut, and Edmonton, Canada.

    While remaining deliberately vague about specific upcoming projects, Nigy Boy teased additional surprises in development, stating: ‘I prefer not to reveal too much prematurely. listeners should keep their ears open and eyes peeled for what’s coming next.’ His confident demeanor suggests the forthcoming releases will equal the impact of his debut material.

    Industry response to his new material has been overwhelmingly positive, with early feedback indicating potential hit status for both recent releases. This reception reinforces Nigy Boy’s confidence in his artistic direction and commercial prospects for the year ahead.

  • Prince Harry accuses tabloids of making wife’s life ‘absolute misery’

    Prince Harry accuses tabloids of making wife’s life ‘absolute misery’

    In a dramatic conclusion to his testimony at London’s High Court, Prince Harry delivered an emotionally charged condemnation of Associated Newspapers Ltd (ANL), accusing the publisher of creating unbearable conditions for his wife Meghan Markle. The Duke of Sussex, visibly fighting back tears, characterized his legal battle against the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday publisher as “a horrible experience” during Wednesday’s proceedings.

    The nine-week trial represents the culmination of Harry’s sustained campaign against certain British media outlets, marking his third and final legal action against newspaper publishers. He stands alongside six co-claimants—including music legend Elton John and actors Liz Hurley and Sadie Frost—in alleging systematic privacy violations and unlawful information gathering by the tabloids.

    “Having to sit here and go through this all over again while they claim I don’t have any right to privacy is disgusting,” Harry stated from the witness box after several hours of testimony. “The worst part is that by taking a stand against them, they continue to come after me. They’ve made my wife’s life an absolute misery.”

    The case revisits the prince’s long-standing grievances with media intrusion, which he has directly linked to the 1997 death of his mother, Princess Diana, who perished in a Paris car crash while evading paparazzi. Harry and Meghan’s 2020 departure from royal duties and subsequent relocation to California occurred amid what they described as relentless negative coverage and family tensions exacerbated by media scrutiny.

    In his witness statement, Harry emphasized that the lawsuit extends beyond personal grievances, describing it as a mission “for the greater good” that addresses “thousands of people whose lives were invaded because of greed.” He detailed how press coverage of his former girlfriend Chelsy Davy constituted “full blown stalking” and created an atmosphere of “distrust” among his circle.

    The claimants’ legal team opened proceedings by promising to demonstrate “clear and systematic use of unlawful gathering of information” at ANL, alleging the publisher employed private investigators implicated in previous phone-hacking scandals. These accusations span a 25-year period from 1993 to 2018 in some instances.

    ANL has vigorously denied all allegations, dismissing them as “lurid” and “preposterous” in court filings. The publisher’s lead attorney contends that evidence will prove legitimate sourcing of stories and characterized the claims regarding private investigators as “clutching at straws in the wind.”

    The trial continues as one of the most significant media privacy cases in recent British legal history, with potential implications for press regulation and celebrity privacy rights in the digital age.

  • ‘Mother Moon’ love song by Fyah George generating major buzz

    ‘Mother Moon’ love song by Fyah George generating major buzz

    Veteran reggae artist Fyah George has captivated audiences with his latest single ‘Mother Moon,’ a soulful exploration of long-distance love through celestial metaphor. Released on January 1, 2026, through the newly launched Trowers Zamar Records, the track has quickly gained momentum across Jamaican radio stations and international streaming platforms.

    The song’s poetic lyrics were crafted by Paulette Trowers, founder of Trowers Zamar Records and noted literacy advocate through her CHEETAH Toys initiative. Trowers revealed the dual inspiration behind the composition: ‘First, it addresses the emotional landscape of separated lovers, where physical connection is replaced by spiritual belief—not just in divine power, but in the moon’s tangible influence on human affairs. If it can move oceans, why not carry messages between hearts?’

    She further elaborated that the symbolism extends beyond romantic relationships to encompass familial bonds and any connection strained by distance. The ‘mother’ archetype represents protection and constancy, a concept born from Trowers’ personal fascination with astronomy and her nightly observations from her New Kingston residence.

    Fyah George, renowned for his conscious reggae anthems like ‘Kingston, Kingston’ and ‘No More War,’ delivers a vocal performance that balances restraint with emotional depth. The artist expressed immediate connection to the material, stating, ‘The song resonated with me profoundly, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give it voice.’

    Technically, the production boasts exceptional pedigree. Two-time Grammy-winning engineer Nigel Burrell handled composition and mixing, while mastering was overseen by Chris Dailey, currently regarded among Jamaica’s premier audio engineers. Recording sessions took place at Kingston’s historic Mixing Lab Recording Studio, adding to the track’s authentic Jamaican soundscape.

    Early indicators suggest strong audience reception, with frequent airplay on Irie FM and designation as January’s ‘Song of the Month’ on GT Reggae Radio, which broadcasts to over 120 countries worldwide. The song’s success marks a significant debut for Trowers Zamar Records while demonstrating the enduring appeal of spiritually conscious reggae music.

  • JMMB upgrades May Pen branch as Clarendon activity gathers pace

    JMMB upgrades May Pen branch as Clarendon activity gathers pace

    JMMB Group is significantly enhancing its operational footprint in Clarendon through the strategic relocation of its May Pen branch to a comprehensive Financial Goals Centre at Millennium Mall, Mineral Heights. This expansion, scheduled for inauguration on January 19, represents a substantial evolution from the institution’s previous investment-focused model to a full-service financial hub integrating banking, investment, and insurance services under one roof.

    The relocation decision stems from both the sustained 22-year presence in the parish and the rapidly evolving economic landscape of Clarendon. Historically dominated by sugar production, livestock, and large estates, the region is now experiencing transformative development across multiple sectors. JMMB’s investment specifically addresses the growing demand for integrated financial solutions from diverse client segments including agricultural enterprises, manufacturing operations, and expanding small-to-medium businesses.

    This strategic move occurs against a backdrop of significant infrastructure and development initiatives throughout Clarendon. Government-led residential projects in Longville Park anticipate delivering thousands of new housing solutions over the coming decade, while concurrent agricultural infrastructure advancements—including modern irrigation systems and agro parks—are enhancing productivity in traditional rural sectors.

    Urban planning authorities are simultaneously responding to development pressures through comprehensive updates to Clarendon’s development order, ensuring coordinated expansion around commercial hubs like May Pen. JMMB’s expansion incorporates hybrid service delivery combining digital innovation with personalized advisory services, recognizing that complex financial decisions in communities like Clarendon continue to benefit from face-to-face consultation.

    The new facility will feature teller services, advanced ATM technology, and digital queue management systems designed to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. This physical expansion demonstrates JMMB’s confidence in Clarendon’s economic trajectory while addressing identified gaps in financial access across central and southern regions of the parish.

  • Suspected serial rapist arrested and charged by C-TOC while on bail

    Suspected serial rapist arrested and charged by C-TOC while on bail

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have apprehended a suspected serial sexual predator who continued his alleged criminal activities while released on bail for previous rape charges. Ackiel Davis, a 25-year-old resident of Cornwall Barracks in Moore Town, Portland, faces renewed criminal prosecution following his arrest on January 15th and subsequent formal charging on January 20th.

    According to official police reports, detectives from the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) identified Davis as the prime suspect in a new rape case involving a 16-year-old minor. The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of digital exploitation where the accused allegedly recorded sexual acts with victims and subsequently used explicit material to extort further compliance through threats of public dissemination on social media platforms.

    Police investigations indicate Davis operated across multiple Jamaican parishes between 2023 and 2026, systematically targeting vulnerable females including minors. The suspect’s modus operandi involved obtaining compromising materials and employing them as leverage for continued sexual exploitation and blackmail schemes.

    Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC characterized Davis’s actions as demonstrating complete disregard for community safety. “Davis exploited the digital space to target and terrorize vulnerable individuals, including minors, through a calculated pattern of blackmail and sexual violence,” Barrett stated. “The fact that these offences were committed while the accused was already on bail for similar crimes represents a blatant disregard for the safety of our citizens.”

    Law enforcement officials are urging potential victims not to comply with online blackmail demands and to preserve all digital evidence including messages, images, and call logs that might assist forensic investigations. Parents and guardians are strongly advised to monitor children’s digital activities and educate them about the permanent risks associated with sharing sensitive content online.

    The suspect is scheduled to appear in court on February 10th for previous charges while authorities finalize proceedings for the new allegations. Investigators believe additional victims may exist and have encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact C-TOC at 876-967-1389, the police emergency number 119, or their nearest police station.