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  • Bank of Jamaica wins 2025 Best Central Bank award

    Bank of Jamaica wins 2025 Best Central Bank award

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) has been distinguished with the prestigious Best Bank Award 2025 by the renowned international financial publication Global Finance. This accolade was formally presented to BOJ Governor Richard Byles during an awards ceremony in Washington DC, conducted alongside the annual gatherings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

    In a parallel recognition of exemplary leadership, Governor Byles was awarded an ‘A’ grade in Global Finance’s 2025 Central Banker Report Card. This annual evaluation scrutinizes the performance of nearly 100 central bank governors across the globe. The top-tier grade solidifies the BOJ’s position at the apex of central banking leadership within the Caribbean and Latin American regions, marking a notable improvement from the ‘A-‘ rating received in 2024.

    Governor Byles, in an official statement, attributed this success to the dedicated efforts of the bank’s entire staff. He emphasized that the award acknowledges their unwavering commitment to fulfilling the BOJ’s core mandates, which encompass stringent inflation control, ensuring the stability of the financial system, and the effective supervision of deposit-taking institutions.

    The recognition arrives at a critical juncture as the central bank intensifies its efforts to facilitate national recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which inflicted substantial damage to Jamaica’s economic and social infrastructure. Byles underscored that the bank’s primary focus on maintaining price stability is a fundamental pillar in supporting the country’s broader rehabilitation efforts.

    Global Finance’s rankings are derived from a meticulous analysis incorporating insights from the financial industry and a set of rigorous metrics. These criteria include the effectiveness of monetary policy, the rigor of financial system supervision, operational transparency, and the degree of independence from political influence.

    The publication specifically commended the BOJ for its consistent and strategic monetary policy actions aimed at curbing inflation, particularly following the hurricane disasters experienced in 2024. It highlighted that despite the severe economic disruptions caused by Hurricanes Beryl and Rafael, the bank, in concert with the government, successfully maintained a steady macroeconomic trajectory. Demonstrating this adaptability, the BOJ held its policy rate steady at 7% until August 2024, subsequently implementing a series of reductions to lower it to 5.75% by September 2025 as inflationary pressures subsided.

  • FID, MOCA and JCF launch joint time-signal campaign to boost reporting of financial crimes

    FID, MOCA and JCF launch joint time-signal campaign to boost reporting of financial crimes

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a groundbreaking collaborative effort, Jamaica’s three premier law enforcement agencies have unveiled an innovative public awareness initiative designed to intensify the nation’s battle against financial criminal activities. The Financial Investigations Division (FID), Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA), and Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have established a strategic alliance to deploy coordinated time-signal messages across major radio networks.

    The comprehensive campaign, scheduled to run from December 1, 2025, through August 30, 2026, will broadcast on Irie FM and Zip 103 FM, specifically engineered to reach diverse audiences nationwide. These audio segments will serve as persistent reminders for citizens to report any suspicious behaviors linked to fraud schemes, scamming operations, money laundering activities, or to seek assistance if they have fallen victim to financial crimes.

    This innovative approach originated from a high-level teleconference conducted on November 17, where agency leadership collectively identified time-signal messaging as both cost-efficient and maximally impactful for sustained public engagement. The partnership operationalizes existing Memoranda of Understanding between the organizations, demonstrating their reinforced dedication to preserving the integrity of Jamaica’s financial infrastructure.

    Colonel Desmond Edwards, MOCA’s director-general, emphasized the operational advantages: “This unified approach significantly enhances our capacity to disrupt organized financial criminal networks. Public cooperation through timely reporting enables quicker response times, more intelligent investigative actions, and broader protection for Jamaican citizens.”

    Dennis Chung, FID’s chief technical director, highlighted the societal implications: “Financial crimes create tangible victims across our communities. These radio messages represent an accessible yet powerful medium to reach citizens in their daily environments, reminding them that vigilant reporting directly contributes to familial and community security. This campaign marks another progressive phase in our inter-agency collaboration to promote national safety and economic stability.”

    Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake affirmed the JCF’s commitment: “Our unified support for this initiative underscores our institutional priority. Every citizen report provides invaluable intelligence that strengthens our investigative capabilities and facilitates the dismantling of criminal enterprises that endanger national security.”

    Dedicated communications teams from all three agencies will collaboratively produce audio content, continuously monitor campaign performance metrics, and adapt messaging strategies throughout the nine-month period to address evolving criminal trends and investigative requirements.

  • OUT OF BOUNDS

    OUT OF BOUNDS

    Despite losing home advantage for their opening game in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifiers, Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) President Paulton Gordon remains optimistic about the team’s chances against Puerto Rico. The Group B match is scheduled for Friday at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, with a rematch set for Monday at the same venue. Originally, Jamaica was to host the opener, but a failed inspection of the Montego Bay Convention Centre and the National Indoor Sports Centre by FIBA in September forced JABA to relinquish hosting rights. While the court at the National Indoor Sports Centre was approved, the $3.5 million installation of a new scoreboard proved too costly to complete in time. Gordon explained that FIBA’s late requirements left insufficient time for necessary upgrades. Despite these challenges, Jamaica is preparing for upcoming home games against The Bahamas on February 26 and Canada on March 1. FIBA has mandated additional improvements, including new hoops, enhanced lighting, and expanded facilities for teams and media. Gordon expressed gratitude to the Puerto Rican Basketball Association for covering accommodation, meals, and transportation costs, easing the financial burden. Jamaica, ranked 19th in the region, faces a tough challenge against fifth-ranked Puerto Rico, but Gordon remains confident in the team’s ability to compete. The squad will miss Miami Heat star Norman Powell due to NBA restrictions but will rely on former NBA draft prospect Kofi Cockburn, who has excelled in the Korean Basketball League. Gordon emphasized the importance of starting the qualifiers on a positive note and delivering a top-class performance. Meanwhile, The Bahamas will host Canada in Nassau on Friday, with a rematch in Toronto on Monday.

  • Vincentians vote as Gonsalves vies for 6th stint in gov’t

    Vincentians vote as Gonsalves vies for 6th stint in gov’t

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — A decisive general election unfolds today in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with over 103,000 eligible voters heading to 250 polling stations. This electoral contest is widely viewed as a potential watershed moment that might conclude the extensive political tenure of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) longest-serving head of government.

    The 79-year-old leader is steering his ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) into the fray, aiming for an unprecedented sixth consecutive term in office. However, the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), led by 66-year-old attorney Dr. Godwin Friday, is mounting a formidable challenge to dismantle the ULP’s quarter-century dominance and bring the party out of its prolonged political exile.

    Electoral competition spans all 15 constituencies, with both the ULP and NDP contesting every seat. The political landscape also features smaller players, including the National Liberation Movement (NLM). Its leader, Dr. Doris Charles, is vying for the South Leeward constituency. She is joined by independent candidate Kenna Questelles, who is contesting the West St. George seat, adding further diversity to the ballot.

    The outcome remains highly uncertain. The previous general election resulted in a ULP victory, securing nine of the 15 parliamentary seats. Political analysts are closely monitoring whether the electorate will grant Dr. Gonsalves another mandate or usher in a new political chapter under Dr. Friday’s leadership, signaling a profound shift in the nation’s governance.

  • COLEY COMMITS

    COLEY COMMITS

    In a significant move to bolster Jamaica’s national football team, former Reggae Boyz Assistant Coach Miguel Coley has agreed to rejoin the program. This marks the first major step in Interim Head Coach Rudolph Speid’s strategy to assemble a strong technical team ahead of Jamaica’s critical Inter-Confederation World Cup qualifying play-off in March 2026. Sources confirmed that Coley and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) finalized the agreement yesterday, with additional appointments expected in the coming weeks to ensure a complete staff complement well before the team’s final push for World Cup qualification.

    Coley, 43, brings extensive international experience to his return. He was identified as the JFF’s top choice for the assistant head coach position following Speid’s appointment on November 21. After days of negotiations, both sides reached an agreement. Coley, a Pro Licence holder renowned for his tactical acumen, has spent the last four seasons in the Middle East, currently serving as head coach of Umm Salal’s reserve team in the Qatar Stars League.

    Coley first gained prominence during a successful tenure with Jamaica College, leading the school to five Manning Cup titles. His achievements earned him an initial role with the Reggae Boyz as assistant to former Head Coach Winfried Schäfer, with whom he later reunited at Iranian club Esteghlal. His international coaching experience expanded with stints at Baniyas in the United Arab Emirates in 2019 and Al-Khor in Qatar in 2021.

    Coley’s return is expected to be the first of several additions to Speid’s technical staff. The JFF is actively engaging with overseas-based coaches and former national players to enhance the program’s technical expertise. Among the targeted candidates is former Jamaican international Aaron Lawrence, currently head coach of the Turks and Caicos national team, who is being recruited as goalkeeping coach. Ricardo “Bibi” Gardner, a standout from Jamaica’s 1998 World Cup campaign, is also expected to join, alongside former national wing back Tyrone Marshall, now head coach of FC Cincinnati’s reserve team.

    Jamaica’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup involves a crucial play-off against New Caledonia on March 26, 2026, in Mexico. If successful, they will face DR Congo on March 31, with the winner securing World Cup qualification. This play-off became necessary after Jamaica failed to secure automatic qualification in the Concacaf Final Round Qualifiers, following a 0-0 draw with Curacao on November 18. The result led to the resignation of former head coach Steve McClaren, who had been appointed 18 months prior.

  • Wildfire Records releases ‘All Star Album’

    Wildfire Records releases ‘All Star Album’

    Philadelphia-based Wildfire Records, under the stewardship of Jamaican music veteran Earl Messam, has maintained a prolific release schedule over the past two years. The independent label has specialized in compilation albums that strategically bridge generations, featuring both established reggae icons and emerging artists poised for breakthrough success.

    This strategic vision continues with the launch of ‘All Star Album,’ a substantial 22-track compilation. Serving as a sequel to the previously released ‘Champion Album’ and ‘Ready fi di World, Vol 3’ from June, the new project showcases a diverse roster including Anaconda, the legendary Glen Ricks, and Philadelphia-native Shan Bam.

    Messam, who hails from Clarendon, Jamaica, outlines a deliberately straightforward A&R philosophy. His process involves recording seasoned performers like Ricks, Anaconda, and Roland Burrell while simultaneously providing a crucial platform for Philadelphia-bred talents such as Shan Bam to gain international exposure.

    ‘Every project holds special significance, driven purely by a profound love for music. The considerable time invested in crafting these songs, working directly with handpicked artists and producers, is what elevates the work and makes it truly exceptional,’ Messam explained in a recent statement.

    Anaconda, whose recording career began in 2000, makes a significant contribution with five tracks on the album, including notable cuts like ‘Don’t Come A mi Yard,’ ‘Woman,’ and ‘Caribbean Queen.’

    Shan Bam, an artist of Jamaican descent, appears on five collaborative tracks. Among these is a distinctive cover of Beres Hammond’s classic ‘No Goodbye,’ performed alongside Glen Ricks.

    The album also highlights the enduring career of Glen Ricks, who first emerged from Toronto’s burgeoning reggae scene in the late 1960s. The artist achieved commercial success in 1970 as a member of The Fabulous Flames (alongside Lovindeer) with a massively popular reggae adaptation of Neil Diamond’s ‘Holly Holy.’ Ricks contributes another original piece, ‘When Love is New,’ to this compilation.

    Messam’s extensive industry experience dates back to the 1980s in Jamaica. After relocating to Philadelphia late in that decade, he continued his production work, most recently collaborating with Roland Burrell, the acclaimed artist behind hit songs ‘Stormy Night’ and ‘Johnny Dollar.’

  • Party with a purpose

    Party with a purpose

    The Build Back Jamaica Street Dance, held at Romeich Headquarters on Saturday night, was far from an ordinary dancehall event. At its core, it was a mission-driven gathering aimed at raising funds for hurricane recovery efforts. A massive donation box placed center stage and gospel music interludes throughout the night underscored the event’s philanthropic purpose. Patrons, dressed in their finest streetwear, were reminded of their collective responsibility to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Despite the somber undertone, the atmosphere was electric, with music, dance, and camaraderie taking center stage. Romeich Major, the event’s organizer, passionately urged attendees to contribute generously, emphasizing that every donation, no matter how small, would aid in rebuilding Jamaica. The night featured an impressive lineup of DJs and selectors who kept the energy high with a mix of R&B, hip-hop, dancehall, and reggae hits. A poignant moment of silence honored the lives lost to the hurricane, accompanied by gospel favorites that stirred deep emotions among the crowd. Songs like ‘We Are The World’ and ‘Lean On Me’ further reinforced the theme of unity and gratitude. Attendees enthusiastically participated in the donation drive, flocking to the stage to fill the ‘offering plate.’ Supported by corporate sponsors, the event continued well into the early hours, leaving a lasting impact on both the attendees and the cause it championed.

  • Belize gets WTO funds for fisheries project

    Belize gets WTO funds for fisheries project

    BELMOPAN, Belize – In a significant move toward sustainable ocean governance, the Belizean government has been awarded a US$300,000 grant from the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Fish Fund. The funding, announced Thursday, is earmarked for enhancing the nation’s legal and institutional frameworks to responsibly manage emerging fisheries subsidy programs. This strategic initiative aims to balance economic support for local livelihoods with the critical need to prevent subsidies that could inadvertently promote overfishing and other detrimental practices. The approved project, titled ‘Building Legal Understanding and Enforcement Capacity for Fisheries Subsidies Reform in Belize’ (BLUE-CAP), is designed to integrate seamlessly with the country’s existing Blue Economy agenda. This includes a complementary program backed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) focused on expanding artisanal fisheries, as well as the national Blue Economy Development Policy and Strategy. Government officials highlighted that the grant application’s success was a direct result of a cohesive inter-agency collaboration. Key contributors included the Directorate General for Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, the Fisheries Department, and the High Seas Fisheries Unit, working in concert with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM). This partnership underscores a regional commitment to shared marine resource challenges. With the new funding secured, Belize anticipates strengthened collaboration with both national and regional partners. The overarching goal is to implement robust management practices that ensure the long-term health and sustainability of marine ecosystems, safeguarding them for future generations while fostering an economically empowering blue economy.

  • Classroom crisis in early childhood sector

    Classroom crisis in early childhood sector

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica in October, experts are emphasizing the critical need for counselling interventions for both teachers and students, particularly at the early childhood level. Professor Zoyah Kinkead-Clark, a leading figure in early childhood care and education at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), has highlighted the immense challenges faced by educators and children as they return to classrooms. She stressed that trauma and psychosocial issues severely hinder learning, making it imperative to address these concerns promptly. Kinkead-Clark, who also manages the Dudley Grant Early Childhood Resource Centre, pointed out that many teachers are themselves grappling with trauma, yet are expected to support their students. With over 700 schools reopened and efforts underway to minimize disruptions to education, the lack of guidance counsellors at the early childhood level has further complicated the situation. Teachers are now tasked with providing psychosocial assistance to students, even as they navigate their own struggles. Kinkead-Clark shared harrowing accounts from educators, including those living in shelters or dealing with significant personal losses. While some progress has been made in prioritizing early childhood education, she emphasized that the sector remains under-resourced. To address these challenges, The UWI School of Education, the Early Childhood Commission, Jamaica National Foundation, and the Dudley Grant Early Childhood Resource Centre are hosting a regional colloquium. The event aims to develop actionable strategies for disaster recovery and strengthen support systems for the sector. The colloquium, taking place at The UWI Regional Headquarters in Mona, St Andrew, will bring together policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders to chart a path forward.

  • Lethal virus hits Brazil’s last wild blue macaws featured in film ‘Rio’

    Lethal virus hits Brazil’s last wild blue macaws featured in film ‘Rio’

    A devastating viral outbreak has struck the world’s only reintroduced population of wild Spix’s macaws in Brazil, threatening to derail decades of conservation efforts for the critically endangered species. Brazilian conservation authorities confirmed Thursday that all surviving members of the recently reintroduced blue parrot population have tested positive for a lethal and incurable circovirus.

    The outbreak represents a catastrophic setback for the ambitious rewilding program that returned the iconic birds to their native Caatinga habitat in northeastern Brazil—25 years after they were declared extinct in the wild. The species, immortalized in the 2011 animated film ‘Rio,’ is considered one of the planet’s rarest avian species.

    According to Brazil’s Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio), approximately 20 Spix’s macaws imported from Germany in 2020 had been released into their natural habitat, with only 11 surviving until recent weeks. All remaining birds in the wild population have now contracted beak and feather disease, a fatal condition caused by circovirus that typically proves lethal in psittacine birds.

    Additionally, 21 birds still housed at the BlueSky breeding center in Bahia state have tested positive for the virus. Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the outbreak, though authorities confirm the pathogen poses no risk to human health.

    The conservation effort has been fraught with international controversy. Brazil terminated its partnership with the German Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP) in 2024 after the organization sold 26 birds to a private Indian zoo without authorization. Brazil has repeatedly raised concerns at CITES meetings about regulatory loopholes enabling the sale of captive-bred Spix’s macaws, which fuels demand that originally drove the species to extinction through habitat loss and collector trafficking.

    ICMBio has levied a 1.8 million reais ($336,000) fine against the BlueSky breeding center for biosafety protocol failures. Inspectors documented severely contaminated bird feeders encrusted with feces and inadequate protective measures among staff handling the endangered birds.