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  • Samuda elected president of United Nations Environment Assembly

    Samuda elected president of United Nations Environment Assembly

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant development for global environmental governance, Jamaica’s Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change Matthew Samuda has been elected to lead the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), the world’s premier environmental decision-making body comprising all 193 UN member states.

    The election occurred during the seventh session of UNEA (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, Kenya, where Minister Samuda is currently heading Jamaica’s delegation. The announcement was formally made Friday morning by outgoing assembly president Abdullah Bin Ali Al-Amri.

    This appointment positions Minister Samuda at the helm of the organization responsible for establishing the global environmental agenda, providing critical policy guidance, and developing strategic responses to emerging ecological challenges. The UNEA additionally oversees policy implementation, promotes international partnerships, and directs the operational priorities of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

    In his inaugural address following the election, Minister Samuda underscored the imperative of cooperative action and inclusive participation in tackling environmental issues. “Environmental stewardship is no longer an isolated agenda item—it is the defining challenge of our century,” he declared. “The decisions we make within this assembly will continue to shape economies, societies and the lives of generations yet unborn.”

    Minister Samuda further emphasized that his presidency represents not just a personal achievement but symbolizes the shared dedication of the entire Latin American and Caribbean region. “Our voices carry the weight of communities on the frontlines of climate impacts—communities that cannot afford delay and do not have the luxury of indifference,” he stated.

    Looking ahead, Minister Samuda committed to several key priorities during his tenure: enhancing the connection between scientific research and policy formation, increasing financial mechanisms for climate adaptation and resilience, and expediting the global shift toward sustainable production and consumption models. He vowed to ensure that all nations, regardless of size or economic status, have equitable access to environmental solutions.

  • 2026 Audi A6 e-tron: The sedan strikes back

    2026 Audi A6 e-tron: The sedan strikes back

    In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by SUVs and electric vehicles, Audi has launched a formidable counteroffensive with the 2026 A6 e-tron Sportback. This premium electric sedan represents a technological tour de force designed to reclaim market share for traditional sedan body styles through groundbreaking innovation and sophisticated design.

    The A6 e-tron Sportback immediately commands attention with its muscular curves and coupé-inspired silhouette. The S line trim enhances its athletic presence with 20-inch wheels, while the distinctive singleframe grille houses Audi’s second-generation OLED headlights—fully programmable via the infotainment system. The rear features an integrated lighting signature that incorporates the Audi emblem into a wrap-around OLED bar, creating a futuristic aesthetic that overshadows the vehicle’s camera-based side mirrors. Carbon fiber accents on the rear spoiler complete the premium exterior package.

    Approaching the vehicle triggers a sophisticated light ceremony: all four flush-mounted door handles illuminate with differentiated animations for entry and exit sequences. The innovative door handles require users to clasp the recessed void to open the doors, eliminating traditional protruding elements. Inside, the E3 architecture delivers both spaciousness and ergonomic excellence, with the driver’s seat automatically adjusting to assist ingress and egress based on user profiles.

    The cabin is dominated by five high-resolution displays, including the curved Audi MMI panoramic display combining an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch touchscreen. Optional features include a 10.9-inch front passenger screen and door-mounted displays for the camera mirror system. The advanced head-up display creates a three-dimensional projection rather than conventional flat images. Premium materials throughout the interior complement the extensive digital ecosystem, while switchable-opacity panoramic glass roof adds to the luxurious atmosphere.

    Performance specifications underscore Audi’s technical prowess: a 362hp rear-mounted electric motor draws power from a 100kWh battery capable of DC fast charging at up to 270kW. The system supports AC charging at 11kW and regenerative braking recovering up to 220kW. Real-world range exceeds 300 miles, with rapid charging capability restoring 80% capacity in minutes—effectively eliminating range anxiety.

    On the road, the A6 e-tron Sportback delivers instantaneous power delivery that exceeds typical driving requirements while maintaining composure across all speed ranges. The chassis, suspension, and braking systems work in harmony to transition seamlessly between comfortable cruising and dynamic performance. Aggressive regenerative braking minimizes use of physical brakes, while sophisticated suspension maintains composure over varied road surfaces.

    Built on the 800-volt PPE architecture, the A6 e-tron Sportback represents the pinnacle of electric vehicle technology while preserving the driving dynamics and refinement expected from a premium sedan. It successfully combines striking design, cutting-edge technology, and practical performance to create a compelling alternative in the evolving automotive market.

  • Newport-Fersan donates $25 million worth of fertiliser to farmers

    Newport-Fersan donates $25 million worth of fertiliser to farmers

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to accelerate post-hurricane recovery, Newport-Fersan Jamaica Limited has contributed JMD $25 million worth of fertilizer to support farmers devastated by Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on October 28. The substantial donation, comprising over 7,000 bags of critically needed agricultural supplements, was formally handed over to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining during a ceremony at the company’s Kingston headquarters.

    Portfolio Minister Floyd Green acclaimed Newport-Fersan as a ‘friend in every time,’ emphasizing their consistent partnership during Jamaica’s agricultural emergencies. ‘The agricultural sector is susceptible to these climatic events, and Newport-Fersan has proven to be one of our most long-standing and loyal partners,’ Green stated during the ceremony.

    This contribution marks the company’s second major intervention within two years, following their JMD $15 million support package after Hurricane Beryl caused approximately $7 billion in damages last year. Minister Green revealed that Hurricane Melissa represents ‘the most catastrophic event witnessed by our sectors,’ with World Bank models projecting potential losses reaching $60 billion for agricultural and fisheries industries.

    The hurricane’s devastation includes complete destruction of banana and plantain crops, approximately 70% loss of yam production, and near-total elimination of vegetable lines. The poultry sector suffered tremendously with over 1.1 million layer chickens and broilers perishing, while fisheries experienced substantial damage to boats and fishing infrastructure.

    Dennis Valdez, Managing Director of Newport-Fersan, announced the fertilizer donation as part of a broader JMD $40 million relief initiative by the Fersan Group. The comprehensive package includes JMD $9 million in direct farmer support through technical programs and outreach, plus JMD $5 million allocated for affected company staff and their families. Valdez emphasized the company’s commitment as ‘national responsibility’ rather than symbolic gesture, noting the contribution aligns with their 20th anniversary operations in Jamaica.

    The ministry confirmed the fertilizer will be distributed to severely affected farmers during this critical recovery phase when agricultural supplements are in highest demand.

  • Samuda poised to head UN Environment Assembly

    Samuda poised to head UN Environment Assembly

    Jamaican Minister of Water, Environment, and Climate Change Matthew Samuda is positioned to assume the presidency of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), the premier global environmental decision-making body representing 170 nations. Currently leading Jamaica’s delegation at the UNEA-7 session in Nairobi, Kenya, Samuda would succeed Abdullah Bin Ali Al-Amri of Oman, whose term has concluded.

    The Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC) has formally endorsed Samuda as their candidate for the leadership position. Vincent Sweeney, head of the Caribbean Sub-Regional Office for the United Nations Environment Programme, confirmed that based on regional rotation protocols, Samuda represents the expected successor to the presidency.

    The potential appointment comes during what environmental experts identify as a critical juncture for planetary health, with the triple environmental crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution pushing natural systems toward collapse. During his address to the assembly, Minister Samuda emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions, drawing from Jamaica’s recent experiences with catastrophic climate events.

    Samuda detailed how Jamaica has endured multiple extreme weather events within four years, including two tropical storms and two major hurricanes—Category 4 Hurricane Beryl and Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. The latter caused approximately US$8.8 billion in damages, equivalent to 41% of Jamaica’s GDP, and severely damaged 51% of the nation’s primary forests. These events were compounded by record-breaking temperatures, unprecedented rainfall, and severe droughts, resulting in deteriorated soil quality, reduced pollination rates, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources.

    The Minister advocated for the multi-dimensional vulnerability index, a UN-backed assessment tool that evaluates structural vulnerabilities beyond economic metrics, particularly crucial for small island developing states (SIDS) like Jamaica. Samuda reaffirmed Jamaica’s commitment to global environmental protection and climate resilience, supporting resolutions to strengthen UNEP’s role, address sargassum seaweed influxes, and accelerate coral reef conservation efforts.

  • Almost $1 billion needed to fix hurricane damage in Hanover

    Almost $1 billion needed to fix hurricane damage in Hanover

    The Hanover Municipal Corporation in Jamaica confronts a staggering financial crisis as it estimates nearly $1 billion (J$814,844,975.65) required to repair infrastructure devastated by Hurricane Melissa. This catastrophic financial burden compounds existing fiscal challenges, including unresolved salary increases for municipal workers implemented three years ago.

    Mayor Sheridan Samuels revealed the dire situation during the corporation’s monthly general meeting, emphasizing that the recovery effort demands extensive external support. The colossal sum would address repairs to municipal infrastructure, public properties, and facilities under the corporation’s management.

    “Achieving Hanover’s restoration to acceptable standards presents immense challenges, yet our community resilience shall guide us through,” Mayor Samuels stated, acknowledging the severity of the predicament.

    The municipal authority has formally requested assistance from Jamaica’s Ministry of Local Government while simultaneously exploring alternative funding avenues. Potential sources include domestic agencies like the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund and the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), with international relief organizations remaining under consideration.

    Mayor Samuels highlighted that the corporation’s financial distress predates the hurricane, exacerbated by the central government’s incomplete funding of mandated salary reclassifications for public sector workers effective since April 2022. This has created persistent strain on municipal resources, affecting operational expenses including payroll, utilities, and transportation.

    The Category 5 hurricane, which struck Jamaica on October 28, severely impacted approximately thirteen municipal revenue streams—including building permits, market fees, advertising signage, and burial services—further weakening the parish’s economic foundation.

    “Our parish is experiencing profound hardship,” Mayor Samuels lamented, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive financial intervention to restore normalcy to the hurricane-ravaged region.

  • Early start for St James Grand Market Push to make up 85% revenue drop

    Early start for St James Grand Market Push to make up 85% revenue drop

    MONTEGO BAY, St James — Facing an 85% collapse in municipal revenue following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the St James Municipal Corporation is launching an economic recovery initiative centered on an early commencement of the traditional Grand Market event.

    Mayor Richard Vernon announced at Thursday’s monthly council meeting that the annual Christmas Eve market—typically a day-long shopping extravaganza—will commence on December 15 this year. The strategic move aims to stimulate commercial activity in a downtown district severely impacted by the October 28 Category 5 storm, which caused extensive damage to government revenue-generating assets including Charles Gordon Market.

    “This initiative will breathe life back into downtown Montego Bay and the market district,” stated Mayor Vernon, revealing the municipal corporation’s dramatic financial predicament. “This is a staggering blow to our financial capacity. As a result, we are recasting the budget for the remainder of the financial year.”

    The mayor acknowledged the corporation’s reliance on Central Government support to maintain essential services and meet inescapable expenses, noting that pre-hurricane budgetary obligations cannot be fulfilled under current circumstances.

    Despite these challenges, municipal authorities pledge to implement enhanced safety and organizational measures for the extended market period. “This pre- and post-Grand Market period will be regulated for order and safety, ensuring a vibrant, secure space for commerce and community,” Vernon assured.

    Prospective vendors must register through the municipal corporation’s Commercial Services Department by the December 15 launch date.

    The hurricane’s impact will also transform the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony into a communal healing event. Scheduled for December 21, 2025, at 6:00 pm, the gathering will incorporate elements of prayer and reflection alongside traditional celebrations. Mayor Vernon described it as “an evening of praise, worship and hope” for residents affected by the catastrophic storm.

  • Caribbean nationals detained in major coke seizure

    Caribbean nationals detained in major coke seizure

    A significant multinational law enforcement operation in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has culminated in the arrest of six Caribbean nationals and the confiscation of a substantial cocaine shipment. The suspects, now facing serious drug trafficking charges, were apprehended following intelligence reports of suspicious maritime activities within territorial waters.

    The detained individuals have been identified as Candido Rios Quezada (St Kitts and Nevis national); Francisco Mejia Ortiz, 21; Joel Santana Santos, 39; Jermife Toribio Vasquez, 40; Cesar Diaz Abrahim, 30; and Ronald James, 49, representing both the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago. Legal proceedings have commenced against them for importation of a controlled substance and four counts of possession with intent to supply.

    Authorities revealed that the coordinated response involved multiple agencies including BVI customs, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), United States Customs and Border Protection, and the Caricom Joint Regional Command Centre. The operation successfully intercepted a vessel engaged in illicit trafficking, recovering 772.4 kilograms of cocaine without incident during the apprehension.

    This seizure continues a pattern of successful anti-narcotics operations in the region. In March 2024, authorities made a historic seizure of approximately 1,800 kilograms of cocaine near Hodges Creek, Tortola, followed by another significant interception of 1,440 kilograms off Virgin Gorda in June 2025.

    Acting Police Commissioner Richard Ullger praised the collaborative effort, emphasizing its impact on regional criminal networks. “This seizure demonstrates what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together with precision, intelligence and determination,” Ullger stated. “The removal of more than 770 kilograms of cocaine from circulation represents a major blow to organized crime.” Ullger further commended all participating officers and partner agencies for their professionalism and dedication to safeguarding the Virgin Islands. The estimated street value of the confiscated narcotics was not disclosed by authorities.

  • Scotia Group grows top line, but costs dampen profits

    Scotia Group grows top line, but costs dampen profits

    Scotia Group Jamaica Limited (SGJ) has announced a 17% decline in fourth-quarter net profit, which fell to $5.14 billion from $6.16 billion, primarily driven by escalating operational expenditures and one-time costs associated with Hurricane Melissa. This occurred despite the group achieving substantial growth across key financial metrics and solidifying its position as Jamaica’s leading mortgage provider.

    Throughout the 2025 financial year, SGJ expanded its total loan portfolio by 12% to $350.44 billion, with residential mortgages reaching $118 billion. This expansion fueled a 9% annual increase in operating income, which climbed to $64.71 billion. The fourth quarter alone saw operating income rise by 4% to $16.31 billion.

    However, these gains were significantly offset by a 29% surge in quarterly operating expenses, which jumped to $8.82 billion. This increase was attributed to multiple factors: a 44% rise in staff salaries and benefits to $4.21 billion following union negotiations, a 28% increase in cash handling costs due to vendor repricing, and $817 million in non-recurring expenses for efficiency initiatives, asset write-downs, and hurricane-related provisions.

    President and CEO Audrey Tugwell Henry addressed the cost pressures, noting the challenges of cash transportation for their extensive network of 300 automated banking machines, two-thirds of which are located offsite. The bank also adjusted various customer fees effective May 1st in response to these rising costs.

    Despite the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica’s western region, SGJ leadership expressed confidence in their resilience. The group’s non-accrual loans stood at $4.8 billion (1.3% of gross loans), with credit loss provisions exceeding total non-performing loans by 123%. The bank has implemented client assistance programs offering payment deferrals and insurance flexibility for affected customers.

    SGJ demonstrated significant market strength throughout the year, accounting for 55% of the total loan growth across Jamaica’s eight commercial banks. Consolidated net interest income grew by 8% to $50.01 billion for the full year. For the 2025 FY, consolidated net profit declined marginally by 1% to $19.90 billion, with earnings per share of $6.40.

    The group continues to advance its digital transformation strategy under Scotiabank’s global ‘make it easy to do business with us’ initiative. Recent enhancements include online onboarding, digital debit card controls, investment portfolio visibility through mobile banking, and plans to introduce Apple Pay and digital wire transfers, though specific timelines remain undisclosed.

    SGJ’s total assets grew by 10% to $773.78 billion, while shareholder’s equity increased by 9% to $150.51 billion. The company declared a dividend of $0.45 per share, payable January 21, bringing the annual dividend yield to 3.44%. Despite short-term challenges, CEO Tugwell Henry affirmed the institution’s strong positioning to navigate current conditions and deliver robust future performance.

  • Afreximbank donates to Hurricane Melissa recovery in Jamaica, Haiti

    Afreximbank donates to Hurricane Melissa recovery in Jamaica, Haiti

    CAIRO, Egypt – In a significant move to support post-hurricane recovery, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced a financial donation totaling US$1.1 million for the governments of Jamaica and Haiti. This commitment follows the catastrophic passage of Hurricane Melissa through the northern Caribbean in October, which caused extensive damage to these member states of the bank.

    Afreximbank President Dr. George Elombi formalized the allocation through official letters of solidarity, designating US$600,000 for Jamaica and US$500,000 for Haiti. This decision was precipitated by recent high-level discussions between Dr. Elombi and Haitian Transitional Presidential Council Chairman Laurent Saint-Cyr, as well as Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness. During these meetings, Dr. Elombi conveyed the institution’s profound condolences and reinforced its dedication to aiding the nations’ reconstruction endeavors.

    Beyond immediate financial aid, Dr. Elombi indicated that the bank plans to collaborate with national agencies to develop comprehensive country programs aimed at bolstering long-term recovery projects. The bank’s Caribbean Office, headquartered in Barbados, has been tasked with initiating dialogues with both governments to identify and implement further support mechanisms for the extensive reconstruction process.

    The destructive force of Hurricane Melissa resulted in a tragic loss of at least 45 lives in Jamaica and inflicted an estimated US$9 billion in damages across the region. Dr. Elombi emphasized the bank’s recognition of the severe impact on critical infrastructure and community livelihoods, stating, “We remain steadfast in our support for recovery and restoration efforts and in building our collective resilience against future climate shocks.

    This event occurs within the annual Caribbean hurricane season, which spans from June to November and is increasingly producing more intense storms due to climate change. Researchers have linked the exceptional severity of Hurricane Melissa, noted as one of the most powerful Atlantic storms on record, to unusually high ocean temperatures in the region this year.

    This initiative continues Afreximbank’s pattern of regional support, building on its 2024 contribution of over US$500,000 for relief efforts in Caribbean nations affected by Hurricane Beryl. The bank reaffirmed its ongoing strategy to work with regional governments to devise long-term financing solutions that enhance climate resilience, restore economic stability, and fortify essential infrastructure against future natural disasters.

  • Marcel Gayle aims to lead St George’s College revival after Bell’s resignation

    Marcel Gayle aims to lead St George’s College revival after Bell’s resignation

    Following two decades as an assistant coach at St George’s College, Marcel Gayle finds himself positioned as the leading candidate to spearhead the revival of the institution’s football program. This development comes in the wake of the sudden resignation of legendary coach Neville ‘Bertis’ Bell, who departed after a disappointing season that saw the ‘Light Blues’ eliminated in the Manning Cup round of 16.

    Gayle, who currently serves as head coach of Waterhouse FC, served as Bell’s deputy during the school’s most successful era, which included five Manning Cup victories and 15 total titles across various competitions. Expressing both surprise and determination, Gayle acknowledged the challenge ahead while emphasizing his deep understanding of the school’s culture and systems.

    ‘Having been there for over twenty years, I comprehend the institution’s framework intimately,’ Gayle stated. ‘If selected for this role, I will commit fully to restoring our competitive standing while maintaining our core values.’

    The transition won’t be straightforward. Gayle’s initial match as interim coach resulted in a 2-4 Walker Cup defeat to Mona High, underscoring the magnitude of the rebuilding task. St George’s College, historically Jamaica’s second-most successful school with 21 Manning Cup titles, has experienced a notable decline, having last won the prestigious competition in 2012.

    Gayle outlined a philosophy extending beyond mere trophy acquisition, emphasizing holistic development: ‘Our mission transcends football victories. We’re shaping young minds and building future leaders for Jamaica. These students are scholars first, athletes second—we’re cultivating better human beings who will contribute positively to our nation’s future.’

    The appointment decision comes at a critical juncture for the North Street institution as it seeks to reclaim its status among Jamaica’s football elite.