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  • Ja-Cirt analysts win top honours at ‘SheSecures’ cybersecurity competition

    Ja-Cirt analysts win top honours at ‘SheSecures’ cybersecurity competition

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A groundbreaking initiative to bridge the gender gap in cybersecurity has yielded exceptional results, with female analysts from Jamaica’s national security apparatus claiming top honors in the inaugural ‘SheSecures’ Cybersecurity Competition. Monique Satchwell and Rheana Hagigal, Tier Two Analysts at the Jamaica Cyber Incident Response Team (Ja-CIRT), secured first place in the overall team category, outperforming numerous contenders from across the nation.

    This pioneering competition, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of National Security and Peace and the Organization of American States (OAS), was specifically designed to offer hands-on technical training and skill enhancement for Jamaican women and girls aged 16 and above. The initiative’s core mission is to empower more women to enter the rapidly expanding cybersecurity field, thereby significantly strengthening Jamaica’s national cyber resilience in an increasingly digital world.

    The victory underscores a critical push for diversity in a sector where women remain significantly underrepresented. Both winners shared personal journeys that defied traditional gender expectations in technology. For Hagigal, a profound fascination with technology that began in high school crystallized into a career choice driven by the conviction that cybersecurity is the foundation of our digital future. “I knew that the future was going to be cybersecurity, because everything is now digitalised,” she explained.

    Satchwell’s path was more serendipitous. Initially an actuarial science major immersed in mathematics at the University of the West Indies (UWI), a growing intrigue with computers led her to switch to computer science. It was there she discovered and became captivated by the cybersecurity domain. She emphasizes a crucial perspective often overlooked: “People often focus on technology itself, while overlooking the critical need to secure it.

    The road to victory was paved with dedication and intense preparation. Both analysts recounted weeks of rigorous training, including sessions partnered with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), supplemented by personal practice lasting several hours each night. “It was very rigorous… but it was well done,” Satchwell stated, expressing immense pride in their achievement. Hagigal echoed this sentiment, attributing their success to training, practice, and sheer perseverance.

    The competition also celebrated other high achievers. A second Ja-CIRT team, comprising Zoe Duncan and Daneel Downer, secured second place, while third place was awarded to a team from the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA). The event also featured school and individual categories, with top prizes awarded to students from institutions like Immaculate Conception High School, Northern Caribbean University, and the University of Technology, alongside individual winner Kelleshia Fender of MOCA.

    Their triumph serves as a powerful inspiration, challenging the male-dominated status quo of the profession. Satchwell’s advice to other young women is unequivocal: “Take courage; you’re talented… talent knows no gender; don’t be afraid.” This event marks a significant stride toward a more inclusive and robust cybersecurity landscape for Jamaica.

  • Ready for rush

    Ready for rush

    Despite the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, western Jamaica’s freight forwarding sector demonstrates remarkable resilience with sustained shipping volumes and record-breaking Black Friday performance. Major logistics providers and customs authorities report operational stability amid Christmas season demands, signaling economic recovery in the hardest-hit regions.

    ipCourier CEO Gavin Lindsay reveals unprecedented Black Friday shipment numbers from western parishes, indicating a rapid return to pre-hurricane consumer patterns. Meanwhile, AirDrop Shipping maintains shipment volumes comparable to last year despite infrastructure challenges, with minimal delivery delays reported across their St. James and Westmoreland operations.

    The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) confirms operational readiness for seasonal demands, implementing extended working hours and staff reinforcements at western facilities. While acknowledging occasional clearance delays due to external factors like vessel scheduling and documentation errors, JCA emphasizes maintained processing efficiency for properly submitted goods.

    Post-hurricane shipping trends reveal significant shifts in consumer behavior, with substantial increases in generator imports and solar equipment following government tax waivers for recovery items. AirDrop’s customer service supervisor Ramiella Griffiths notes persistent e-commerce activity despite logistical constraints, with Christmas decorations and event-related shipments continuing alongside recovery-focused purchases.

    Logistics companies have adapted operations through data-driven capacity expansion and flexible storage policies, accommodating customers requiring extended collection deadlines due to displacement or communication challenges. The industry’s adaptive measures include temporary authorization protocol adjustments and promoted relief initiatives that have contributed to shipping volume recovery.

    While infrastructure limitations create space constraints for oversized items like generators, companies report innovative solutions through overseas warehouse coordination and prioritized air freight. The sustained online shopping trend reflects both necessity-driven purchasing and returning consumer confidence, with western Jamaican customers increasingly relying on doorstep delivery services where local retail options remain limited.

  • TRANSJAM Highways partners with JCF to strengthen highway safety

    TRANSJAM Highways partners with JCF to strengthen highway safety

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—A significant interagency safety operation targeting vehicle compliance has been executed along Jamaica’s critical highway network. TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH), in a coordinated effort with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Island Traffic Authority (ITA), conducted an intensive vehicular inspection initiative aimed at enhancing safety standards for all motorists.

    The strategic operation, deployed on December 4 between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm, established checkpoints at two high-traffic locations: the Vineyards Toll Plaza and Old Harbour Road. The primary objective was to identify and detain vehicles deemed unroadworthy or operating outside legal parameters. The results were substantial: 97 vehicles were subjected to stops, with 62 undergoing thorough searches. Enforcement actions were rigorous, resulting in the removal of 30 registration plates for critical non-compliance with safety regulations. Furthermore, law enforcement officials issued 61 traffic citations, which included three specific violations for improperly secured loads, a known hazard on high-speed corridors.

    Mark Walker, Deputy Operations Manager at the TransJam Group, emphasized the strategic importance of such collaborations. “Our alliance with the JCF and the Island Traffic Authority solidifies our enduring dedication to preserving a secure and efficient highway infrastructure. The triad of public awareness, stringent enforcement, and inter-organizational cooperation is fundamental to our blueprint for diminishing traffic incidents and cultivating conscientious driving behaviors,” Walker stated.

    Reaffirming its commitment to long-term safety outcomes, TJH announced plans to perpetuate its investment in and endorsement of road safety programs. These initiatives are meticulously aligned with the corporation’s core mission: to guarantee a protected and dependable transit experience for every user of the highway system.

    This recent enforcement drive follows a broader public sensitization campaign launched by the company in October. That campaign was designed to reacquaint drivers with essential safe-driving protocols, underscoring the vital importance of obeying speed limits, verifying tire roadworthiness prior to journeys, utilizing turn signals during lane changes, and conducting meticulous visual checks of the roadway to prevent accidents.

  • Liberian sprinter among seven athletes joining Enhanced Games

    Liberian sprinter among seven athletes joining Enhanced Games

    LAS VEGAS – The controversial Enhanced Games, scheduled for launch in May 2026, has significantly expanded its roster with seven additional world-class athletes embracing the unconventional sporting event that permits performance-enhancing substances. The latest recruits include Liberia’s national record holder Emmanuel Matadi, who achieved a remarkable 9.91 seconds in the 100-meter dash in 2024.

    Matadi becomes the third premier sprinter to commit to the games, following previous announcements involving American champion Fred Kerley and French standout Mouhamadou Fall. The Enhanced Games organization, which openly challenges traditional anti-doping protocols, promises substantial financial rewards for record-breaking performances within its enhanced competition framework.

    The new participants represent diverse athletic disciplines and international backgrounds:

    – Natalia Fryckowska (Poland): National finalist and collegiate sprint specialist transitioning to swimming
    – Beatriz Pirón (Weightlifting): Pan American champion and World Championship bronze medalist
    – Felipe Lima (Brazil): World Championship medalist and Pan American gold medalist in swimming
    – Isabella Arcila (Colombia): Olympic competitor and multiple national record holder in swimming
    – Evgenii Somov (Russia): Olympic athlete, World Junior champion, and ACC title holder in swimming
    – Max McCusker (Ireland): Olympic participant and Irish national record holder in swimming

    The games’ philosophy centers on exploring human potential through scientifically monitored performance enhancement while maintaining transparency. With 50 athletes now committed, the inaugural event is set to commence on May 24, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, potentially reshaping conversations about biotechnology’s role in athletic achievement.

  • Bird flu caution

    Bird flu caution

    A prominent Jamaican biologist has issued an urgent call for public vigilance following the confirmed avian influenza outbreak in the Cayman Islands, which authorities believe was introduced through migratory birds. Damion Whyte, an assistant lecturer at The University of the West Indies’ Department of Life Sciences and wildlife expert, is urging Jamaicans to report any sightings of ill or behaving unusually birds to prevent potential spread.

    Whyte emphasized proper protocols in a social media video: ‘If you see a sick bird, put on gloves if you have to move it, and get that information to the authorities.’ He specifically mentioned contacting Jamaica’s Ministry of Agriculture’s Veterinary Division, the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), Bird Life Jamaica, or directly messaging him through his social media platform @roostersworldja.

    The Cayman Islands outbreak, first detected on November 28 at a West Bay farm on Cemetery Road, has resulted in the culling of 69 birds after the virus was identified in chickens, quail, farmed ducks, a wild whistling duck, and a goose. According to the Cayman Compass newspaper, Senior Veterinary Officer Dr. Tiffany Chisholm confirmed that genetic tracing conducted with UK support matched the strain to the H5N1 variant currently circulating in North America.

    ‘We are fairly confident that it was either brought in by the migratory birds or it was transmitted via chickens that had been exposed to them,’ Dr. Chisholm stated during a virtual meeting with farmers. ‘The reality around the world is that migratory birds have played one of the biggest roles in introducing this virus to most countries.’

    Whyte, a former president and current executive member of Bird Life Jamaica, explained that migratory birds typically arrive in the Caribbean from North America between September and May. These birds, often called ‘Christmas birds’ locally, can carry avian influenza without showing symptoms and transmit the virus through water, saliva, feathers, or when infected carcasses are consumed by predators.

    Jamaican health authorities have confirmed they are monitoring the situation and maintaining existing surveillance systems. The Veterinary Division continues animal surveillance while simultaneously conducting testing for flu-like illnesses in humans.

    Whyte additionally recommended that chicken farmers secure their coops to prevent wild birds from entering and sharing water or feed sources. He also addressed increased bird injuries following Hurricane Melissa on October 28 but believes those are storm-related rather than disease-connected.

    The Cayman Islands government is preparing targeted culling operations for feral birds as the affected farm remains under quarantine for at least three to four weeks. Health professionals note that avian influenza can sometimes transmit to humans, causing mild to severe respiratory symptoms and pink eye, particularly affecting those who work with poultry, waterfowl, and dairy cows.

  • JMMB Money gives clients opportunity to win $2 million with ‘Share the Love’ promotion

    JMMB Money gives clients opportunity to win $2 million with ‘Share the Love’ promotion

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant post-hurricane recovery initiative, Jamaica Money Market Brokers (JMMB) Money Transfer has unveiled its ‘Share the Love’ promotional campaign, offering clients the opportunity to win substantial cash prizes totaling $2 million during the festive season.

    The comprehensive promotion, active from December 5, 2025, through January 31, 2026, will culminate in a prize draw on February 9, 2026, where twenty fortunate winners will each receive $100,000. This corporate social responsibility effort specifically acknowledges the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on local communities and aims to support those providing financial assistance to loved ones during the recovery period.

    Eligibility for participation extends to all JMMB Money Transfer clients in Jamaica who are at least 18 years of age. Participants can enter the drawing through two primary methods: receiving inbound remittances via JMMB Money Transfer services, with each transaction qualifying for one entry, or by utilizing the JMMB Money Transfer Visa Prepaid Card, where every $5,000 spent generates an additional entry opportunity.

    Sharon Gibson, Chief Executive Officer of JMMB Money Transfer, emphasized the philosophical foundation behind the initiative: “Within our organization, we recognize that each financial transaction embodies profound elements of love, care, and personal sacrifice. This campaign represents our commitment to empowering Jamaican families, fortifying community resilience, and demonstrating that even during periods of adversity, acts of generosity can create meaningful positive change. We take immense pride in supporting our clients through this substantial giveback program.”

    The promotion operates in full compliance with Jamaican regulatory frameworks, specifically adhering to Section 58(3) of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act, with complete terms and conditions available to all participants.

  • Cavalier snap winless run against MBU with 3-0 whipping in JPL

    Cavalier snap winless run against MBU with 3-0 whipping in JPL

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A dramatic shift in momentum unfolded at Stadium East on Monday as defending champions Cavalier SC delivered a stunning 3-0 defeat to league leaders Montego Bay United in the Jamaica Premier League. This decisive victory marked Cavalier’s first win against their rivals after three consecutive unsuccessful attempts, simultaneously halting Montego Bay’s impressive four-game winning streak.

    The match, part of a Monday double-header, saw Cavalier SC strategically dismantle their opponents. The scoring opened in the 34th minute when Jerome McLeary found the net, establishing an early lead. The second half belonged to Chad James, who executed a remarkable brace with goals in the 56th and 71st minutes. This commanding performance handed Montego Bay United their most significant margin of defeat this season and propelled Cavalier SC into fourth place in the league standings.

    In the accompanying fixture, Tivoli Gardens continued their impressive form following a league hiatus caused by hurricane Melissa. They secured a 2-1 victory over Waterhouse FC, extending their winning streak to three consecutive games. Nickalia Fuller emerged as the hero for Tivoli Gardens, scoring both goals for his team. After Fuller’s initial strike in the 22nd minute, Waterhouse managed to equalize through substitute Revaldo Mitchell in the 66th minute. Fuller ultimately sealed the victory with a dramatic winner in the 72nd minute, securing Tivoli Gardens’ fourth seasonal triumph and moving them ahead of Waterhouse into fifth position in the league table.

  • School principal counts blessings amid disaster

    School principal counts blessings amid disaster

    Six weeks after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage, the Burnt Savannah Early Childhood Institution in St. Elizabeth continues operating without a roof—yet radiates remarkable resilience through powerful community solidarity. Despite classrooms remaining exposed to the elements, the institution has become both a recipient and distributor of hope in the aftermath of the Category 5 storm.

    Principal Elaine Williamson Smith detailed the extensive damage: “Our zinc roofing completely disappeared during the storm, and unfortunately, some community members took the remaining materials.” Yet the devastation triggered an extraordinary response. Former student Claston Bernard mobilized US Navy personnel and Mexican workers to install protective tarpaulins, while numerous organizations and individuals contributed rebuilding materials.

    The school’s transformation into a community hub represents perhaps the most remarkable development. Partnering with World Central Kitchen, the institution now serves as a strategic distribution center for meals reaching hurricane-affected residents across multiple communities. “We’ve sent meals to Burnt Savannah Primary School, Knoxville Basic School, and Slipe,” Williamson Smith explained, emphasizing their careful scheduling of distributions to avoid disrupting classroom activities.

    Educational challenges remain significant. Currently operating without electricity or internet, the school has shortened daily sessions to avoid afternoon rainfall. Attendance stands at approximately 50% of the pre-hurricane 105 students, with many families temporarily relocated or struggling with recovery. “Some households simply cannot send children to school yet,” the principal acknowledged, though she remains optimistic about gradual improvement.

    The collective response has overwhelmed school administrators. Food For the Poor has committed building materials and care packages, while education ministry officials and the Early Childhood Commission have pledged reconstruction support. “God has sent persons to our help and our rescue,” Williamson Smith stated, reflecting the community’s profound gratitude amid ongoing challenges.

    Despite the progress, complete recovery remains a distant goal. The principal’s ultimate vision includes fully restored operations for the entire educational and medical complex—the primary school, health center, and early childhood institution—enabling all students to resume regular face-to-face learning without environmental limitations.

  • Former Haitian first lady renews a demand for justice for her husband

    Former Haitian first lady renews a demand for justice for her husband

    PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti—Martine Moïse, widow of assassinated Haitian President Jovenel Moïse, has issued a powerful renewed demand for justice nearly three years after her husband’s brutal killing. The former first lady, who survived the July 7, 2021 attack that claimed the president’s life, delivered a scathing indictment of Haiti’s judicial system, describing it as a weaponized tool for political persecution rather than an instrument of justice.

    In an emotionally charged statement, Moïse characterized Haiti’s justice system as being ‘in the hands of a small group that manipulates an entire population,’ asserting that her husband had consistently denounced this corrupt system during his presidency. She revealed disturbing patterns within the judicial framework: those without powerful connections ‘die in prison,’ while wealthy individuals evade incarceration ‘even with solid evidence against them.’

    The former first lady drew direct connections between previous judicial attacks on her husband and his ultimate assassination, specifically referencing events on February 7, 2021, when Haitian authorities claimed to have thwarted an attempted coup against President Moïse. She pointedly questioned the whereabouts of judges who had issued warrants against the president while he was executing his constitutional duties, suggesting these legal instruments were ultimately weaponized to facilitate his murder.

    Moïse’s statement extended beyond personal tragedy to address Haiti’s broader crisis, attributing the country’s paralyzing violence to ‘oligarchs, corrupt politicians, and globalist whites’ who she claims ‘sacrificed the People by assassinating President Jovenel Moïse.’ She warned of ongoing strategies to consolidate power through violent means, creating what she described as a ‘violent, enslaving system that sucks their blood.’

    Invoking Haiti’s revolutionary heroes—Padrejean, Makandal, Boukman, Toussaint, and Dessalines—Moïse recalled their rallying cry of ‘Liberty or death’ as relevant to the current crisis. She concluded with her husband’s haunting question from a recorded video: ‘What will we do in the face of these criminals, these lawless bandits?’ asserting that ‘the people have had enough’ and that ‘the time has come for the system to collapse.’

  • Wishes from the west: Don’t cancel Christmas

    Wishes from the west: Don’t cancel Christmas

    In the storm-ravaged communities of St Elizabeth, Jamaica, residents are making an extraordinary appeal to their nation: do not scale back Christmas celebrations, but instead bring the festive spirit to those hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa. Despite facing catastrophic losses of homes and livelihoods, these communities are pleading for special focus on restoring joy for their children during the holiday season.

    Parents from Parottee and Burnt Savanna emphasize that while material possessions have been destroyed, the Christmas spirit remains unbreakable. They specifically request assistance in organizing children’s treats, family fun days, and the installation of Christmas lights to illuminate both their physical surroundings and emotional darkness. The symbolic power of holiday celebrations represents a crucial psychological lifeline for traumatized families.

    Britney Durrant, a mother of two, articulated the profound emotional need: “The children feel scared, and getting them into the Christmas spirit will at least give them a little bit of hope.” Her neighbor Raltson White echoed this sentiment, noting that while adults struggle with trauma, children deserve to experience the magic of Christmas through toys and festivities.

    Beyond seasonal celebrations, residents express more fundamental needs. Kadrija Lindo, whose home was completely destroyed, faces a January 2026 deadline to find stable housing for her two young children. Cassandra Green described her desperate situation with a leaking roof and inadequate lighting, while Getel Harriot lost both her home and small business to the hurricane.

    The community’s dual Christmas wishlist encompasses both immediate festive joy and long-term recovery assistance. Richard Thompson captured the resilient spirit, stating: “We still have to give thanks that we are alive… no matter how poor we are, we can celebrate Christmas same way.”

    The Jamaica Observer, which documented these stories, has offered to connect potential helpers with affected families, providing a direct channel for those wishing to contribute to both the Christmas celebrations and rebuilding efforts.