标签: Jamaica

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  • Young doctors expanding access to compression care through Uniflo

    Young doctors expanding access to compression care through Uniflo

    Two Jamaican physicians, Dr. Mickhail Benjamin and Dr. Duhaney Johnson, are revolutionizing accessibility to essential medical compression therapy through their homegrown enterprise, Uniflo Compression Wear. Recognizing a critical gap in national healthcare provision for circulatory conditions, the longtime friends have established a direct-supply model that bypasses traditional intermediaries to offer medically graded compression garments at unprecedented affordability.

    The medical practitioners identified venous insufficiency as a widespread yet underserved health crisis disproportionately affecting occupational groups requiring prolonged standing or sitting—including security personnel, educators, transportation operators, and office workers. Women experience particularly heightened vulnerability due to hormonal influences, with approximately 40% developing circulation complications during pregnancy that frequently persist postpartum.

    Compression therapy represents the medical standard for managing poor circulation, employing graduated pressure to facilitate venous return and prevent complications ranging from edema and discomfort to chronic ulceration. Despite demonstrated efficacy, accessibility barriers have historically placed these interventions beyond reach for average Jamaicans due to prohibitive pricing and limited availability.

    Uniflo’s operational framework addresses these systemic challenges through strategic international sourcing that eliminates markup from conventional distribution channels. The company’s nomenclature derives from the medical principle of ‘unidirectional flow’—the physiological mechanism whereby veins transport blood toward the heart.

    Beyond compression garments, the venture has expanded its portfolio to include ripple mattress toppers that mitigate pressure injury risks for bedbound patients, demonstrating responsiveness to broader caregiver and patient needs.

    The doctors’ parallel journeys from modest beginnings—Dr. Benjamin from Spanish Town and Dr. Johnson from Portmore—inform their commitment to equitable healthcare access. Both recipients of prestigious Government of Jamaica scholarships covering 80% of medical school tuition, they represent the top 3% of academic achievers admitted to The University of the West Indies medical program. Their combined decade of clinical experience reinforces a patient-centered approach grounded in practical healthcare solutions.

    Their shared philosophy emphasizes transformative innovation through service: “Coming from humble beginnings, we are deeply aware of the social and economic challenges faced by many Jamaicans. Our journey reflects a determination not to become statistics of our environments, but to give back through accessible healthcare.”

  • Black River hospital gets infant, maternity supplies from Digicel Foundation

    Black River hospital gets infant, maternity supplies from Digicel Foundation

    In a significant boost to post-hurricane recovery efforts, the Black River Hospital in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica has received a substantial donation of critical maternal and infant supplies valued at over JMD $1.3 million from the Digicel Foundation. The contribution, delivered on January 15th, comprises 65 cases of diapers, 12 boxes of baby wipes, 15 boxes of sanitary pads, and 25 boxes of bleach to support the facility’s pediatric and maternity wards.

    Hospital CEO Diana Brown Miller described the donation as both timely and deeply appreciated, noting that while the hospital hasn’t yet resumed full operations following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, these supplies will be immediately distributed to mothers in need. The hurricane caused extensive damage throughout the parish and western Jamaica, creating heightened vulnerability among new and expectant mothers.

    “The Digicel Foundation stands among the numerous benefactors who have come to our rescue following this devastating hurricane,” Brown Miller stated. “The assistance and donations have been overwhelming, and we are extremely grateful for every contribution regardless of size. Everything adds up in our recovery efforts.”

    The hospital administration emphasized their commitment to “building back better” with increased resilience, hoping to restore services to pre-hurricane levels in the near future. Pediatrician Dr. Allison Isaacs highlighted the dual impact of the donation, explaining that it will alleviate financial pressure on both patients and healthcare workers who continue to experience the hurricane’s aftermath.

    Digicel Foundation CEO Charmaine Daniels characterized the donation as part of their ongoing relief initiatives focused specifically on vulnerable populations in western Jamaica. Daniels additionally praised hospital staff for their dedication under challenging circumstances, noting that many healthcare workers themselves were affected by the storm yet continued serving their community.

  • Alliyah McNeil breaks North Texas school record in high jump

    Alliyah McNeil breaks North Texas school record in high jump

    Jamaican track and field athlete Alliyah McNeil achieved a historic milestone at the Arkansas Invitational on Friday, setting a new University of North Texas high jump record with an impressive clearance of 1.80 meters. The competition, held at the Tyson Indoor Facilities, saw McNeil surpass the previous record of 1.79 meters established by Shahaf Bareni back in 2013.

    McNeil, who has previously competed for both Iowa Western and the University of Minnesota, demonstrated her exceptional versatility by also securing second place in the long jump event with a mark of 6.22 meters.

    The weekend witnessed several other outstanding performances from Caribbean athletes across various collegiate meets. At the University of Tennessee, former Holmwood Technical ISSA girls’ athletics champion Cedricka Williams achieved a personal best of 19.39 meters in the women’s weight throw, ranking seventh all-time in the university’s history and claiming victory in her event.

    Meanwhile, at the HBCU Showcase in New York’s Armory, Hampton University athletes delivered strong performances. Rochele Solmon captured the women’s shot put title with a season’s best throw of 15.05 meters, while her teammate Damali Williams secured second place in the weight throw with a personal best of 16.92 meters.

    At the Corky Classic hosted by Texas Tech, Brandon Lloyd of Arizona State earned second place in the men’s shot put with a throw of 18.85 meters. University of Texas athlete Shaiquan Dunn finished sixth in the same event with a mark of 17.78 meters.

    Adding to the weekend’s achievements, Malaika Cunningham of Villanova University won the women’s high jump at the Quaker Invitational held at the University of Pennsylvania, clearing 1.73 meters.

  • Senegal stun hosts Morocco to win Africa Cup of Nations

    Senegal stun hosts Morocco to win Africa Cup of Nations

    RABAT, Morocco — In a dramatic conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations, Senegal secured a historic 1-0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco on Sunday. The match, however, was overshadowed by significant controversy and disruptive crowd behavior following a highly contentious penalty decision late in normal time.

    The pivotal moment occurred in the 24th minute of added time when Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after a VAR review of a challenge on Brahim Diaz by Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. The decision sparked immediate protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff, while Moroccan players insisted on additional review of the incident.

    The ensuing delay of approximately twenty minutes created extraordinary tension throughout Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. During this interruption, sections of Senegalese supporters engaged in disruptive behavior, throwing chairs and attempting to access the pitch before being restrained by security personnel.

    When the penalty was finally taken, Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz saw his weakly attempted chip easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The missed opportunity proved costly as Pape Gueye became the match-winner in the fourth minute of extra time. The Villarreal midfielder received a precise pass from Idrissa Gana Gueye, held off Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi, and delivered a superb strike into the top corner past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

    Morocco nearly equalized when Nayef Aguerd’s header struck the crossbar during the second half of extra time, but Senegal maintained their narrow advantage to claim their second AFCON title in three years. The victory marks a significant achievement for Senegal, who had previously failed to score in three prior AFCON final appearances.

    The tournament concluded in bitter disappointment for Morocco, who had aspired to win their first African championship in fifty years before their home supporters. Many fans departed before the final whistle on a rain-soaked evening in Rabat, while questions lingered regarding match organization and security protocols.

  • WATCH: Slain cop laid to rest

    WATCH: Slain cop laid to rest

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican law enforcement community and grieving relatives gathered Saturday to honor the life and service of Constable Jemarey Gordon, one of two police officers fatally shot during a violent confrontation last November. The solemn thanksgiving service took place at the Church of the Open Bible on Washington Boulevard, drawing massive attendance from across the nation.

    The emotional ceremony brought together heartbroken family members, fellow officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, and residents from Gordon’s hometown of Oakland Road. In a moving written tribute, Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake memorialized Gordon’s nine years of dedicated service to national security. “With heavy hearts we honour the life of our dear colleague, No. 19415 Constable Gordon,” Commissioner Blake stated, extending official condolences to the fallen officer’s father, mother, siblings, and children.

    Significant representation came from Gordon’s assigned unit, the Counter Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC), alongside delegates from the Police Federation. Superintendent Susan Bruce delivered the formal eulogy, honoring Gordon’s commitment to duty. The ceremony concluded with full police honors during interment at Meadowrest Memorial Gardens in St. Catherine, reflecting the department’s deep respect for their fallen comrade.

    The tragic incident occurred on November 13 along 83 Lane, Waltham Park Road, where Gordon and his colleague Constable Charles Stewart lost their lives during an armed confrontation with multiple assailants. Constable Stewart received his final honors during separate funeral proceedings the previous week, marking a devastating period for Jamaica’s law enforcement community.

  • Trinidad-based promoter sues Vybz Kartel over performance cancellation – report

    Trinidad-based promoter sues Vybz Kartel over performance cancellation – report

    Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel (legal name Adidja Palmer) faces significant legal and financial repercussions as Trinidad and Tobago-based Jacho Entertainment Limited files a high-profile lawsuit against the artist. The civil action, lodged in the High Court of Justice, centers on Kartel’s abrupt cancellation of his scheduled headline performance at the One Caribbean Music Festival on May 31, 2025.

    The promotion company alleges multiple contractual violations including breach of agreement, unjust enrichment, and defamation. According to court documents, Jacho Entertainment secured Kartel’s performance through a written agreement dated November 22, 2024, which stipulated a performance fee of $1.35 million payable in four installments.

    Financial records indicate the company had disbursed approximately $1.1 million (81% of the total fee) by May 29, 2025, with the remaining $250,000 scheduled for payment upon Kartel’s arrival in Trinidad. The promoter attributes delayed final payment to temporary foreign exchange constraints but maintains sufficient funds were available on the event date.

    The dispute escalated when Kartel allegedly failed to board his scheduled flight to Trinidad while demanding full payment in advance—a requirement not stipulated in their contract. The artist subsequently announced his performance cancellation through social media channels without providing formal written notice as contractually required.

    Jacho Entertainment claims substantial financial losses exceeding TT$7.3 million (approximately $1.08 million USD) from ticket refunds, operational costs, and reputational damage. The company further alleges that Kartel’s public statements accusing them of mismanagement compounded their reputational harm.

    The legal action follows months of failed settlement negotiations between the parties. The promoter seeks recovery of all monies paid, special and general damages, an injunction against further defamatory statements, plus interest and legal costs.

  • Europe scrambles to respond to Trump tariff threat

    Europe scrambles to respond to Trump tariff threat

    BRUSSELS — European leaders have launched a coordinated diplomatic offensive against U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats targeting eight European nations, escalating tensions over his renewed pursuit of acquiring Greenland. The confrontation has triggered emergency meetings and warnings of transatlantic relationship damage.

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, despite maintaining positive relations with Trump, explicitly cautioned the American administration against economic retaliation. During her official visit to Seoul, Meloni revealed she personally conveyed to Trump that imposing new sanctions would constitute a significant miscalculation, while simultaneously attributing the dispute to communication failures between the allies.

    The controversy stems from Trump’s intensified campaign to acquire the autonomous Danish territory since returning to office, with recent weeks witnessing heightened claims that have destabilized NATO partnerships. On Saturday, the president threatened punitive 10% tariffs commencing February 1 on imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Finland—potentially rising to 25% by June absent Greenland’s transfer agreement.

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans direct discussions with Trump regarding what UK Culture Minister Lisa Nandy termed “deeply unhelpful and counterproductive” measures. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron advocated deploying the EU’s unprecedented trade defense mechanism—the so-called ‘bazooka’ instrument designed to counteract coercive practices through import restrictions.

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa jointly warned that such tariffs would precipitate a dangerous downward spiral in transatlantic cooperation. Their statement preceded an emergency assembly of EU ambassadors in Brussels to formulate a coordinated response.

    Civil society has mobilized against potential annexation, with thousands protesting in Nuuk, Copenhagen, and other Danish cities. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen announced imminent diplomatic visits to NATO partners Norway, Britain, and Sweden to reinforce Arctic security consensus.

    Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel condemned Trump’s approach as “inexplicable blackmail,” while French Agricultural Minister Annie Genevard noted reciprocal economic damage would affect American farmers and industrialists. The EU previously secured a July agreement limiting most exports to 15% U.S. levies, now jeopardized by the Greenland dispute.

  • Chapelton Maroons into top four; Montego Bay and Portmore stalemate

    Chapelton Maroons into top four; Montego Bay and Portmore stalemate

    In a significant shift within the Jamaica Premier League standings, Chapelton Maroons have catapulted into the coveted top four following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over bottom-placed Spanish Town Police FC this Sunday. The match’s solitary goal, netted by Damoi Whitfield in the 31st minute, proved decisive, marking the team’s fourth triumph in their last five fixtures.

    This crucial win elevates Chapelton’s season tally to 25 points from 17 games, representing a remarkable ascent from their previous eighth-place position and effectively distancing them from relegation concerns. They now sit just above Mount Pleasant FA, though the latter retains a significant advantage with four fewer games played.

    Meanwhile, at Jarrett Park, league leaders Montego Bay United maintained their top spot despite being held to a goalless draw by third-ranked Portmore United. This result extends Montego Bay’s lead to three points over second-place Racing United, who themselves staged a comeback to secure a 1-1 draw against Dunbeholden FC.

    The match between Racing and Dunbeholden saw early drama with Odane Samuels putting Dunbeholden ahead within just five minutes. However, Tajay Grant demonstrated his reliability by netting the equalizer in the 75th minute, preserving Racing’s impressive undefeated streak which now stretches across ten consecutive games. For Dunbeholden, this result marks another frustrating occasion where they surrendered a lead to settle for a single point.

    Sunday’s complete results:
    Spanish Town Police FC 0, Chapelton Maroons 1
    Montego Bay United 0, Portmore United 0
    Racing United 1, Dunbeholden FC 1

  • No Venus fairytale as Alcaraz, Sabalenka win Melbourne openers

    No Venus fairytale as Alcaraz, Sabalenka win Melbourne openers

    MELBOURNE, Australia — The Australian Open commenced under scorching conditions, witnessing commanding performances from top seeds while concluding the historic campaign of tennis legend Venus Williams. World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz launched his quest for a career Grand Slam with a decisive 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 6-2 victory over Australian wildcard Adam Walton. Despite a challenging second set, the Spaniard expressed satisfaction with his opening-round form as he aims to dethrone reigning champion Jannik Sinner.

    Reigning women’s champion Aryna Sabalenka navigated a tricky encounter against French left-hander Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah, overcoming initial unforced errors to secure a 6-4, 6-1 win. The Belarusian acknowledged added pressure with tennis icons Roger Federer and Rod Laver observing from courtside.

    The tournament’s intense heat approached 30°C (86°F), contributing to dramatic scenes including a ball girl collapsing during Zeynep Sonmez’s match against Ekaterina Alexandrova. Attendance reached a record 100,000 despite complaints about lengthy queues in the oppressive conditions.

    Alexander Zverev demonstrated resilience after dropping the first set to Canada’s Gabriel Diallo, rallying to a 6-7 (1/7), 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory. The German third seed admitted needing to reset after his early struggles.

    The day’s most emotional moment came as 45-year-old Venus Williams, the oldest woman to compete in Australian Open history, fell to Serbia’s Olga Danilovic in a grueling 2-hour, 17-minute battle. Despite flashes of her legendary prowess, Williams succumbed 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 6-4 to an opponent more than two decades her junior.

    Other notable results saw British qualifier Arthur Fery upset 20th seed Flavio Cobolli, while seeded Ukrainians Dayana Yastremska and Marta Kostyuk suffered early exits. The tournament continues with Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek headlining Monday’s action.

  • Nickalia Fuller’s maiden goal wins it for Reggae Boyz in Grenada

    Nickalia Fuller’s maiden goal wins it for Reggae Boyz in Grenada

    In a tightly contested international friendly at Kirani James Stadium, Jamaica’s national football team secured a 1-0 victory against Grenada through Nickalia Fuller’s decisive 75th-minute strike. The match served as crucial preparation for the Reggae Boyz’s upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against New Caledonia scheduled for March.

    Interim head coach Rudolph Speid enjoyed a successful debut on the sidelines as Fuller, representing Tivoli Gardens FC, scored his inaugural international goal for Jamaica. The victory extends Jamaica’s dominant record against Grenada, marking their tenth win in thirteen encounters between the Caribbean nations.

    Coach Speid expressed satisfaction with his team’s implementation of training strategies, noting: ‘Our primary objective was to assess whether players would execute our training concepts in match conditions. Generally, we achieved this through effective ball movement and composed possession play.’

    The technical staff plans comprehensive video analysis to evaluate tactical execution, with Speid emphasizing the challenge of observing all details during live gameplay. The match also featured international debuts for four players: Nickyle Ellis (Racing United), Tafari Chambers (Mount Pleasant), Dwight Merrick (Dunbeholden FC), and Nico Brown (Lexington SC).

    Speid utilized 21 players total, including 16 from Jamaica’s Premier League, ensuring widespread participation. Additional preparatory matches are anticipated as Jamaica finalizes its squad selection for the critical World Cup qualifiers on March 26th and 31st.

    Despite Jamaica’s FIFA ranking of 70th compared to Grenada’s 164th, Speid acknowledged Grenada’s competitive performance under coach Anthony Modeste, former Portmore United standout and JPL champion. Speid noted the psychological dimension of regional competition, stating: ‘Our Caribbean dominance has been challenged recently, making this hard-fought victory particularly valuable for our qualifying campaign.’