Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

牙买加

  • Finally, parents get more time

    Finally, parents get more time

    Jamaica’s healthcare landscape witnessed a transformative development as the Ministry of Health and Wellness inaugurated an innovative Family Caregivers Pilot Programme at Bustamante Hospital for Children. This pioneering initiative grants parents of hospitalized children unprecedented 14-hour visiting access, spanning from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.

    The program emerged from compelling grassroots advocacy, notably a father’s petition that garnered over 15,000 signatures and secured attention from the Office of the Prime Minister. This collective effort highlighted the profound emotional distress experienced by parents forced to leave their children in understaffed wards after limited visiting hours.

    Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton emphasized the psychological significance of the program, stating, ‘The trauma of isolation significantly impedes healing processes. This initiative addresses the critical need for continuous psychosocial support during children’s medical journeys.’

    Dr. Marsha James, ENT consultant at the hospital, provided historical context, revealing that while 24-hour visitation existed pre-pandemic, it lacked structure. The new program establishes a regulated framework that balances caregiver involvement with clinical operations. Participants must formally register and adhere to strict ward protocols while providing non-clinical support including feeding and emotional comfort.

    The six-month pilot program will undergo rigorous monitoring and evaluation before potential expansion to general hospitals nationwide. As the Caribbean’s sole English-speaking pediatric specialty facility, Bustamante Hospital serves children aged 0-12 from Jamaica and neighboring nations, making this initiative particularly significant for regional healthcare standards.

    Early participants expressed profound appreciation, with mother Francine Perry noting, ‘This transformative opportunity allows me to maintain my child’s normal sleep schedule while providing crucial emotional stability during his treatment.’ Another parent, Tasheka Anderson, highlighted the dual benefits for both families and medical staff, particularly during evening hours when nursing resources are typically stretched.

  • Bermuda announces plans to become world’s first fully onchain national economy

    Bermuda announces plans to become world’s first fully onchain national economy

    BERMUDA LAUNCHES HISTORIC DIGITAL ECONOMY INITIATIVE AT DAVOS

    DAVOS, SWITZERLAND – In a groundbreaking announcement at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, the Bermuda government revealed its ambitious strategy to become the world’s first fully onchain national economy. This transformative initiative is being developed in collaboration with leading digital asset companies Circle and Coinbase, marking a significant milestone in global financial innovation.

    The partnership will leverage Circle and Coinbase’s advanced digital asset infrastructure and enterprise-grade tools to revolutionize Bermuda’s financial ecosystem. The comprehensive rollout will extend to government services, local banking institutions, insurance providers, SMEs, and individual consumers. Additionally, both companies will implement nationwide digital finance education programs and technical onboarding support to ensure seamless adoption.

    According to official government statements, transitioning to an onchain economy represents a fundamental shift toward utilizing digital assets as primary financial infrastructure. This move addresses critical challenges faced by Bermuda’s entrepreneurial economy, where traditional payment systems have proven costly and restrictive. The island’s classification alongside Caribbean jurisdictions has historically resulted in elevated processing fees and compressed merchant margins through conventional banking channels.

    Central to this transformation is the integration of USDC (USD Coin), Circle’s dollar-pegged stablecoin distinct from central bank digital currencies. This technology enables merchants to process rapid, low-cost transactions denominated in US dollars, providing unprecedented efficiency for daily commercial activities.

    Government officials highlighted multiple successful local implementations already demonstrating how onchain digital payments facilitate local transactions, support economic growth, and maintain regulatory compliance through modernized systems.

    This announcement builds upon Bermuda’s established leadership in digital asset regulation, dating back to 2018 when the territory implemented the pioneering Digital Asset Business Act – among the world’s first comprehensive regulatory frameworks for digital assets. Both Circle and Coinbase were early licensees under this legislation and have subsequently expanded operations within Bermuda’s growing digital finance ecosystem.

    The current partnership follows a significant demonstration at the Bermuda Digital Finance Forum 2025, where organizers executed a large-scale USDC airdrop distributing 100 USDC to each attendee for use with newly onboarded merchants. Subsequent developments have seen additional Bermudian businesses embracing digital payments, while local financial institutions have expanded their utilization of stablecoins and tokenized finance solutions.

  • Jamaica’s Under-17 Reggae Girlz get Group D World Cup draw

    Jamaica’s Under-17 Reggae Girlz get Group D World Cup draw

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s Under-17 women’s national football team, known as the Reggae Girlz, discovered their path to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after the CONCACAF qualifying draw placed them in Group D. They will compete against Honduras, Guyana, Aruba, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the initial group stage.

    The qualifying tournament structure features twenty-eight teams divided across six groups for the first round. The top finisher from each group, plus the two most successful second-place teams, will progress to the final qualification round. They will be joined by four pre-seeded, top-ranked nations—Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the United States—who received automatic byes into the final stage.

    First-round matches are scheduled to occur between January 24 and February 2. The subsequent and decisive final round is set for March, where four teams will ultimately secure their berths for the 2026 World Cup in Morocco.

    This comes as FIFA has transitioned the U-17 World Cup to an annual event. In the previous tournament held in 2025, the CONCACAF region was represented by Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, and the United States, with Mexico earning the bronze medal.

    Jamaica’s quest for World Cup qualification begins on January 25th with an opening match against Guyana. Their group stage campaign continues with fixtures against Aruba on January 27th, St. Vincent and the Grenadines on January 29th, 2026, and concludes with a pivotal match against Honduras on February 2nd.

  • Jade-Ann Dawkins sets indoor triple jump PB

    Jade-Ann Dawkins sets indoor triple jump PB

    Jamaican track and field athletes delivered a spectacular performance across multiple US collegiate meets this weekend, headlined by record-breaking achievements from Jade-Ann Dawkins and Kobe Lawrence.

    At the Thane Baker Invitational hosted by Kansas State University, former St Jago High standout Jade-Ann Dawkins made an extraordinary indoor debut by capturing the women’s triple jump title with a meet record of 13.31 meters. The reigning ISSA Girls’ Championships winner and three-time Penn Relays champion now holds the eighth-best mark globally this season. Dawkins surpassed the previous meet record of 12.83m set by Iowa Western’s Mercy Honesty in 2023. Another Jamaican competitor, Aaliyah Lindsay of Kansas State, secured third position with a leap of 13.01m.

    In parallel success, former Jamaican junior representative Kobe Lawrence rewrote the record books at the same event by establishing a new University of Oregon shot put record with a massive throw of 19.81 meters. This monumental effort not only broke the meet and facility records but also ranks as the third-best performance in NCAA Division I this season. Lawrence shattered his previous personal best of 19.21m set last year at Arkansas, while simultaneously eclipsing two historic marks: the meet record of 17.20m set by fellow Jamaican Yekini Bowen and the 51-year-old facility record of 19.22m held by Tucker Smith of Oklahoma.

    The Jamaican dominance extended across multiple disciplines as Annaleise Taylor (University of Oregon) claimed second in the women’s 60m hurdles (8.63 seconds), while unattached athlete Rohana Sudlow (former St Catherine High) secured silver in the women’s long jump (6.14m). Richelle Stanley (University of Kansas) added to the medal haul with a 5.58m jump in the same event.

    Additional notable performances included Shanniqua Williams (Kansas State) taking second in women’s high jump (1.78m), Jhavor Bennet achieving fourth in men’s triple jump with an indoor personal best (15.73m), and David Beadle (Hastings University) winning the men’s weight throw (17.84m) at the Scott Nicely Invite in Nebraska.

    Completing the Jamaican success story, Rhiana Phipps (University of Nebraska) triumphed in the women’s triple jump at the Graduate Classic (12.08m), while Cindy Rose (Indian Hills Community College) demonstrated remarkable versatility with third place in the women’s 600m (1:35.08) after previously setting a personal best in the 1000m (2:56.50) on Friday.

  • First-time farm worker aiming to ‘rise and shine’

    First-time farm worker aiming to ‘rise and shine’

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A new chapter begins for 24-year-old Andre Hollinzed from Clarendon as he joins the first contingent of Jamaican workers departing for Canada under the longstanding Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP). The ambitious young farmer, speaking with JIS News during a farewell ceremony at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Overseas Employment Centre, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to transform his family’s circumstances through international employment.

    Hollinzed credits his agricultural background and his mother’s encouragement as driving forces behind his application. ‘My mom is a farmer, my dad is a farmer, so we all grew up in a farming area,’ he shared. ‘She motivated me to get a farm-work ticket. Now that I got through, it’s my time to rise and shine.’

    The determined participant has prepared meticulously for the Canadian climate, packing ample warm clothing to combat the harsh winter conditions. Beyond physical preparation, Hollinzed carries a deeper motivation: rebuilding his family’s home and livelihood devastated by Hurricane Melissa, which destroyed crops, livestock, and their roof. With four younger brothers depending on him, his aspirations extend beyond immediate earnings to establishing a solid foundation for his family’s future.

    Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr. offered inspirational guidance to the first-time participant, emphasizing the program’s transformative potential. ‘This is not only an opportunity to earn money but to help you restart and rebuild,’ Minister Charles noted. He highlighted the program’s dual benefit as both a skills development initiative and a cultural exchange, urging Hollinzed to maintain exemplary conduct as a Jamaican ambassador.

    The SAWP, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, represents a significant bilateral agreement between Jamaica and Canada that enables temporary agricultural employment while providing Jamaican workers with lawful employment, income security, and exposure to international practices. The 182 workers departing on January 6-7 will spend eight months working on farms across Ontario, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland, contributing to greenhouse operations and fruit and vegetable cultivation while supporting their families back home.

  • US Supreme Court to hear Trump bid to fire Fed governor

    US Supreme Court to hear Trump bid to fire Fed governor

    WASHINGTON, United States – The US Supreme Court is poised to deliberate a consequential case this Wednesday regarding former President Donald Trump’s attempt to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook from her position. This legal battle represents a critical test for the operational autonomy of the nation’s central bank against executive branch influence.

    In August, Trump initiated proceedings to dismiss Cook, a prominent member of the Fed’s interest rate-setting committee, based on allegations of mortgage fraud—claims which she has consistently denied. The conservative-majority court previously issued an injunction preventing Cook’s immediate removal, permitting her to continue in her role pending judicial review.

    The significance of this case is underscored by Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s planned attendance at the hearing, demonstrating institutional support for Cook. This development occurs alongside heightened pressure from the Trump administration targeting the central bank, including the initiation of a criminal investigation into Powell himself concerning renovations at the Fed’s headquarters. Powell has characterized this probe as a politically driven effort to sway monetary policy decisions.

    Cook’s potential removal—and the investigation into Powell—signals an unprecedented escalation in Trump’s campaign to exert influence over the Federal Reserve. The former president has frequently criticized the institution for resisting his calls for more aggressive interest rate cuts. A successful dismissal of Cook could allow Trump to appoint a successor more aligned with his economic agenda, potentially altering the balance of power within the board.

    Legal experts note that the case’s outcome may redefine the boundaries of presidential authority regarding independent federal agencies. Federal statute specifies that Fed officials may only be removed for “cause,” typically interpreted as misconduct or neglect of duty—a standard Cook maintains has not been met.

    The Court’s decision carries profound implications for central bank independence globally, with former Fed chairs warning that political interference could yield severe economic consequences, including inflationary pressures and market instability. This case follows a pattern of Supreme Court rulings favoring expansive presidential powers during Trump’s tenure, though the Court previously acknowledged the Fed’s unique protected status in a prior decision.

    Cook, the first Black woman to serve on the Fed’s board of governors, has stated that the allegations reference activities predating her appointment and that no formal charges have been filed. The criminal referral originated from a Trump-appointed official at the Federal Housing Finance Agency, citing discrepancies in mortgage documentation.

  • MOCA strengthens digital forensics muscle

    MOCA strengthens digital forensics muscle

    Jamaica’s Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) is undergoing a significant technological transformation to counter the escalating threat of cyber-enabled financial crimes. During the Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange, MOCA Director General Colonel Desmond Edwards revealed that traditional forensic capabilities have become inadequate against sophisticated digital criminal enterprises.

    The agency has recognized that virtually all modern criminal operations—from money laundering to human trafficking—now incorporate cyber methodologies. This realization has driven MOCA to develop advanced analytics systems capable of processing over 17 terabytes of digital evidence. Specialized staff now employ cutting-edge software to navigate immense data volumes and extract crucial evidence for prosecutions.

    Colonel Edwards emphasized the distinction between pure cybercrimes (ransomware, malware attacks) and cyber-enabled crimes where digital tools facilitate traditional offenses. Financial forensics has become particularly critical since most investigated crimes demonstrate financial motivations.

    Beyond internal capacity building, MOCA has established strategic partnerships with multiple agencies including the Jamaica Customs Agency, Registrar General’s Department, and Financial Investigations Division. This collaborative network enables real-time intelligence sharing about emerging cyber threats and criminal techniques.

    The agency’s approach extends beyond enforcement to prevention through educational initiatives. MOCA conducts school outreach programs teaching vulnerable youth about responsible digital citizenship and the permanent consequences of online actions.

    Complementing these efforts, Senior Director Nigel Parke disclosed proactive threat assessment services for government agencies and institutions handling sensitive data. MOCA’s cybersecurity experts identify vulnerabilities in systems and procedures that could be exploited by phishing scams and other digital threats.

    Despite the overwhelming volume of digital evidence in modern investigations, MOCA leadership expressed confidence in their evolving capabilities to maintain superiority over cybercriminals in Jamaica’s rapidly changing technological landscape.

  • Dakar delights in Senegal parade honouring AFCON champions

    Dakar delights in Senegal parade honouring AFCON champions

    DAKAR, Senegal — The streets of Senegal’s capital transformed into a sea of national pride on Tuesday as the triumphant national football team embarked on a victory parade following their dramatic Africa Cup of Nations championship victory against Morocco. The Lions of Teranga, carrying their hard-won trophy aboard an open-top bus, navigated through massive crowds of ecstatic supporters that stretched across Dakar’s diverse neighborhoods.

    The celebration commenced in the working-class district of Patte d’Oie, where thousands of fans clad in team jerseys created a cacophony of cheers, vuvuzela blasts, and whistles that echoed throughout the city. The parade route showcased a cross-section of Senegalese society, with citizens of all ages and backgrounds lining highways, scaling buildings, and even perching on billboards to catch a glimpse of their returning heroes.

    This monumental welcome followed the team’s late Monday arrival aboard a special flight from Morocco, where they were greeted at the airport by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. The presidential reception underscored the national significance of Senegal’s second AFCON title, achieved through a contentious 1-0 extra-time victory against the host nation on Sunday.

    The championship match in Rabat had been marred by controversy when Senegalese players temporarily left the pitch in protest of a penalty decision. Team captain Sadio Mane played a crucial peacemaking role in convincing his teammates to return to play, ultimately leading to goalkeeper’s crucial save against Brahim Diaz’s Panenka attempt and Pape Gueye’s spectacular winning goal.

    Despite the Moroccan Football Association’s formal complaints to CAF and FIFA regarding the match’s contentious finish, Senegalese fans remained focused on celebrating their team’s resilience. Street vendor Amath Ndiaye exemplified the tournament’s economic impact, having successfully switched from selling tissues to marketing patriotic merchandise throughout AFCON and its celebratory aftermath.

    The parade culminated with an official presidential palace reception, cementing the Lions of Teranga’s status as national icons who have now reached three finals in the last four AFCON tournaments.

  • Dominica joins Special Olympics Global Coalition

    Dominica joins Special Olympics Global Coalition

    ROSEAU, Dominica — January 8, 2026, will be remembered as a watershed moment in Dominica’s social development history as the Caribbean nation formally aligned itself with the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion. The landmark signing ceremony, orchestrated under the guidance of Senator Oscar George, Minister of State for Sports, signifies the government’s profound commitment to creating a more equitable society for citizens with intellectual disabilities.

    The ceremony witnessed the convergence of key stakeholders including Ainsworth Irish, National Director of Special Olympics Dominica, and Trevor Shillingford, representing the Ministry of Sports. This partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for implementing inclusive policies through educational and athletic channels.

    The Global Coalition for Inclusion, initiated in 2023, represents a multinational alliance combining governmental resources, philanthropic organizations, and developmental agencies to eradicate social exclusion. Supported by prominent entities like the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, the coalition employs strategic initiatives to promote inclusive education and sports programming on a global scale.

    Through this memorandum of understanding, Dominica has committed to an ambitious three-year implementation strategy that will integrate Unified Sports programs across 15 educational institutions, directly benefiting approximately 1000 young participants. This initiative transcends symbolic gesture, representing a concrete action plan to cultivate environments of mutual respect and social acceptance within school systems and broader community structures.

    Dominica’s accession marks the 20th nation to join this global movement and the third Caribbean territory following Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. This strategic positioning demonstrates the island nation’s dedication to leading regional efforts in disability inclusion and social integration.

    Senator George emphasized that “this partnership inaugurates a transformative period for Dominican youth, regardless of physical or intellectual capabilities. The introduction of Unified Sports within our educational framework will instill values of acceptance and collaborative spirit that will resonate through generations.”

    Irish echoed this sentiment, expressing profound appreciation for the governmental collaboration: “Our partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sport, and Community Development enables tangible social transformation through athletic inclusion. We are witnessing the powerful effects of unified sports in breaking down barriers and creating cohesive communities.”

    This agreement represents more than bureaucratic formality—it constitutes a compelling call to action for systemic social reform. Dominica’s decisive step positions the nation as a beacon of progressive change within the Caribbean region, potentially inspiring similar initiatives across neighboring territories.

  • Belize sugar cane harvest and milling season starts

    Belize sugar cane harvest and milling season starts

    BELMOPAN, Belize – The 2026 sugarcane harvest and milling season has officially commenced in Northern Belize, signaling the beginning of what industry leaders project to be a remarkably productive crop year characterized by strengthened collaboration, improved agricultural conditions, and promising output forecasts.

    Prime Minister John Briceño delivered an inspiring address during the season’s inauguration, praising the resilience of sugarcane farmers who persevered through significant challenges including disease outbreaks, labor shortages, climate change impacts, rising operational costs, and scheduling delays. “Rather than retreating in the face of adversity, you demonstrated remarkable entrepreneurship by continuing to plant, maintain, and prepare your fields,” Briceño stated. “Your dedication has sustained families and communities across the region, earning the nation’s gratitude.”

    The season opening ceremony gathered government representatives, members of the Belize Sugarcane Farmers Associations, and milling company executives. Officials reported substantially healthier cane fields, superior harvest quality, and enhanced operational preparedness throughout the industry compared to previous seasons.

    Comprehensive preparatory efforts by farmers, associations, millers, and technical partners have established the foundation for a timely, efficient, and productive harvesting and milling process. These measures include advanced field management protocols, intensified disease surveillance systems, and beneficial weather patterns that have collectively contributed to a more stable and promising agricultural outlook.

    Early performance indicators already demonstrate improved cane quality and a more streamlined initiation of milling operations, suggesting favorable economic outcomes for both agricultural producers and the broader Belizean economy.

    The 2026 crop exemplifies unprecedented coordination across the entire sugarcane value chain, encompassing harvesting, transportation, and milling activities. This integrated approach is expected to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen industry resilience throughout the season.

    As harvesting and milling operations commence, the sugarcane sector begins with renewed confidence, unified purpose, and widespread optimism for achieving a safe, productive, and successful harvest for all stakeholders involved.

    This development follows December’s interim agreement between the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association and American Sugar Refinery/Belize Sugar Industries Ltd, which facilitated the current season’s launch. Authorities anticipate the season will yield approximately 1.3 million tonnes of sugarcane for processing.