In a significant development, the United States has authorized Trinidad and Tobago to proceed with the exploration of the Dragon gas field, located in Venezuelan waters near the maritime border of the Caribbean nation. The announcement was made by Trinidadian authorities on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in regional energy cooperation. The Dragon field, which holds an estimated 120 billion cubic meters of natural gas, is a critical resource for Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean’s second-largest natural gas producer. The US Treasury Department’s approval comes six months after Washington revoked the initial permit, allowing Trinidad and Tobago to negotiate with Venezuela without breaching US sanctions imposed on Caracas in 2019. This decision follows a series of fluctuating US policies regarding Venezuelan energy operations, including the suspension of licenses for oil companies in March and the subsequent authorization of limited operations by Chevron. The Dragon field’s proximity to Trinidadian fields operated by Shell underscores its strategic importance. Despite heightened regional tensions, including a major US naval deployment near Venezuela, the permit signals a potential easing of restrictions, offering Trinidad and Tobago a lifeline to bolster its declining gas production.
标签： Jamaica
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La Nina is back, but impact may be limited— US agency
The United States National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed on Thursday that La Nina, a natural climate phenomenon, has re-emerged. However, its weak intensity is expected to minimize its cooling effect on global temperatures and its influence on Atlantic hurricane activity. La Nina, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, typically alters atmospheric wind patterns, leading to increased hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin and reduced activity in the Pacific. This cyclical pattern oscillates between La Nina, its counterpart El Nino, and neutral phases. After a brief La Nina episode from December 2024 to March 2025, neutral conditions prevailed until the recent resurgence of La Nina in September 2025. The NWS predicts that La Nina will persist through the winter, with a 55% chance of transitioning back to neutral conditions between January and March 2026. Despite its historical impact on global weather, this La Nina event is expected to be too weak to significantly affect conventional winter weather patterns. The 2020–2023 La Nina was notable for its unprecedented duration, marking the first ‘triple-dip’ event of the 21st century. While La Nina typically cools global temperatures, it failed to counteract the trend of record-breaking heat observed over the past decade. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, has been slightly below average so far, with no storms making landfall in the United States. Nevertheless, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to forecast an above-normal hurricane season.
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World’s oldest leader tipped for 8th term in Cameroon vote
Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest head of state at 92, is widely expected to secure an eighth term in Sunday’s presidential election. Despite facing a fragmented opposition of 11 candidates, Biya’s long-standing grip on power since 1982 remains unchallenged. The election’s credibility has been questioned by human rights groups, with concerns over fairness and transparency. Biya’s health, a topic of increasing speculation as he enters his tenth decade, adds another layer of uncertainty to the race. Should he win, he would be nearly 100 by the end of his term. The opposition, led by figures like Maurice Kamto, who was barred from running, has struggled to unite voters under promises of change and economic relief. Kamto’s exclusion has fueled accusations of electoral manipulation, with some citizens labeling the vote a “scam.” Despite this, Biya retains support among those who value his decades of experience in a country where half the population is under 20. His rare campaign appearance in Maroua, where he emphasized his commitment to serving the nation, drew mixed reactions. Critics argue that Biya’s rule has been marked by repression and regional alliances to maintain power, while supporters praise his leadership and stability. The election unfolds against a backdrop of economic challenges, including high living costs and limited access to basic services, as well as ongoing separatist conflicts in English-speaking regions. Observers have been deployed to monitor polling stations, though the government has dismissed these efforts as attempts to skew results. With low turnout expected in conflict-affected areas, the election is unlikely to bring significant change to Cameroon’s political landscape.
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J’can Bakes Betty Crocker’s B’DAY Cake
Renowned Jamaican-born pastry chef Dr. Altreisha Foster-Bentho has once again showcased her extraordinary talent, this time with a breathtaking eight-tier cake to celebrate Betty Crocker’s 104th birthday. The masterpiece, unveiled at the Minnesota Cake Picnic, was commissioned by General Mills and designed by Foster-Bentho’s company, Sugarspoon Desserts. Described as a culinary art installation, the towering seven-foot cake featured intricate details, including archival photographs from Betty Crocker’s historical collection, which highlighted the brand’s evolution over the decades. Each tier of the cake boasted a unique flavor combination, ranging from pistachio and blueberry lemon to indulgent cherry chocolate, reflecting both tradition and innovation. Foster-Bentho, who proudly uses Betty Crocker mixes in her Cake Therapy Foundation programs, emphasized the cake’s deeper significance: a celebration of history, community, and the transformative power of baking. The event also featured prominent cake artists, including Theresa Johnson-Londot and Sewande Cadmus, who joined Foster-Bentho in honoring Betty Crocker’s enduring legacy.
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Health ministry developing training manual for school cooks
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to promote healthier eating habits among students, Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness, supported by UNICEF funding, is spearheading the development of a comprehensive curriculum and training manuals for school cooks. This initiative aims to equip cooks with essential knowledge and skills in nutrition and healthy meal preparation. State Minister Krystal Lee announced that standardized recipes will also be introduced to ensure consistency and quality across schools. Speaking at the Heart Foundation of Jamaica’s media campaign launch for the National School Nutrition Policy, Lee revealed that over 200 cooks will receive specialized training from nutritionists and an executive chef between 2026 and 2027. The ministry has already conducted assessments in more than 200 schools, evaluating food safety, hygiene, nutritional quality, and administrative practices. Collaborating with the Ministry of Education and UNICEF, the ministry will revise existing recipe manuals to align with national nutrition standards. The revision process begins this month, with recipe testing scheduled for December 2025, student taste testing in January 2026, and nutrient lab testing by February 2026. Finalized recipes are expected by March 2026. Lee emphasized that this policy is a blueprint for a healthier generation, ensuring children have access to nutritious meals that support learning and growth. She highlighted the broader societal impact, noting that good nutrition is a cornerstone of national development. The policy also encourages daily physical activity, fostering a culture of wellness in schools. Lee concluded that this initiative marks the beginning of a cultural shift, transforming schools into hubs of health and empowering children to thrive.
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Shein’s Paris store kicks up a storm in France
The decision by Asian e-commerce giant Shein to establish its first permanent physical store in Paris has ignited a wave of controversy in the fashion capital. The store, set to open in November at the historic BHV Marais department store, has drawn sharp criticism from local brands and trade unions. BHV Marais, an iconic building opposite Paris City Hall since 1856, has already been struggling with tenant departures due to late payments. Shein’s announcement prompted several French brands, including Aime cosmetics, to exit the department store, with co-founder Mathilde Lacombe expressing deep shock over the deal. Trade unions have called for strike action, warning of a ‘short-term threat to the survival of the department store.’ Critics argue that Shein’s ultra-competitive pricing and fast-fashion model, which has disrupted traditional retail globally, could further harm French stores already facing layoffs and closures. The company, founded in China and now based in Singapore, has faced international scrutiny over environmental and labor concerns. The French ready-to-wear women’s clothing association, FFPAPF, condemned the move, fearing a flood of disposable products in the market. Meanwhile, the European Commission is investigating Shein for illegal product risks, and EU lawmakers recently approved legislation to curb fast fashion’s environmental impact. Former French environmental transition minister Christophe Bechu criticized Shein’s arrival as contrary to the country’s convictions. Despite the backlash, Shein framed its entry as a tribute to Paris’s status as a fashion hub. Executive Chairman Donald Tang stated, ‘By choosing France as the place to trial physical retail, we are honouring its position as a key fashion capital and embracing its spirit of creativity and excellence.’
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WORLD CUP HOSTS JAMAICA?
Jamaica is on the verge of achieving a historic milestone in international football, with advanced discussions underway for the island nation to co-host matches during the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The tournament, primarily hosted by the United States and Mexico, could see Jamaica become the first Caribbean country to stage a senior World Cup match. Michael Ricketts, President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), hinted at a formal announcement scheduled for New York on October 20, 2023, confirming Jamaica’s interest in hosting. Ricketts emphasized the federation’s commitment to developing women’s football, citing the Reggae Girlz’s recent successes, including back-to-back World Cup appearances in 2019 and 2023, as evidence of Jamaica’s growing stature in the sport. The 2031 tournament will mark the fourth time the CONCACAF region has hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup, with other CONCACAF nations also expected to join as co-hosts. Jamaica’s bid is bolstered by government support and plans to redevelop the National Stadium, set to begin in 2026 and conclude by 2029. The upgraded facility will feature enhanced seating, lighting, media infrastructure, and green spaces, meeting international standards for major tournaments. Ricketts highlighted the teamwork and dedication behind Jamaica’s football progress, expressing gratitude to those who contributed to the sport’s development. As the Reggae Girlz prepare for the CONCACAF W Qualifiers in November, aiming for a third consecutive World Cup appearance, Jamaica’s potential role as a co-host underscores its rising influence in global football.
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‘A bullfrog the Epworth people dem up there a drink,’ says PNP councillor
In St Ann, Jamaica, Councillor Ian Bell of the People’s National Party has raised concerns over the delayed response by the St Ann Municipal Corporation to address the contamination of the main water catchment tank in the Epworth community. The tank, which serves as the sole source of potable water for the area, has been compromised by the presence of dead frogs, rendering the water unsafe for consumption. Bell voiced his frustrations during the monthly meeting of the St Ann Municipal Corporation on Thursday, emphasizing that repeated reports to the authorities have yielded no significant action. Two weeks prior, Saad Williams, the chief engineering officer, inspected the site to assess the damage and estimate repair costs. Williams acknowledged the urgency but stated that full restoration would require more time. He outlined a phased approach, beginning with immediate remedial measures such as covering the tank with zinc sheets to prevent further contamination, followed by cleaning and patching. Extensive repairs are planned for a later stage. Mayor Michael Belnavis of St Ann’s Bay assured residents that the initial cleaning would be completed promptly, likely before the weekend. The ongoing delay has left the community grappling with a critical water shortage, underscoring the need for swift and effective intervention.
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Israel says ‘all parties’ signed phase one of Gaza deal
In a landmark development, Israel announced on Thursday that all parties have signed the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release agreement, marking a significant step toward ending the prolonged conflict. The deal, brokered in Egypt, follows a 20-point peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump last month, aimed at resolving the crisis that began with Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel. The agreement includes the release of all hostages, both living and deceased, within 72 hours, with Israeli officials expressing hope that this will bring an end to the war. US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that President Trump will visit Egypt next week to celebrate the deal’s conclusion, though Trump noted that exact timing is still being finalized. Despite widespread international acclaim, critical issues remain unresolved, including Hamas’s disarmament and the establishment of an interim “Board of Peace” led by Trump to oversee Gaza’s administration. Hamas has already rejected the proposed transitional authority, with senior official Osama Hamdan stating that no Palestinian faction would accept such an arrangement. Trump assured that the disarmament of Hamas would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan, alongside Israeli military pullbacks. The ceasefire is set to take effect within 24 hours of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet meeting, scheduled for 1400 GMT. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized that the hostage release should signal the war’s end. The deal also includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages. Hamas has submitted a list of 1,950 prisoners it seeks to have freed, including high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti, though Israel has ruled out his release. The agreement envisions a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza, where famine has been declared by the UN. However, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges, as evidenced by continued strikes in Gaza even after the deal’s announcement. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi urged mediators to ensure de-escalation until the agreement is fully implemented. The deal comes amid mounting international pressure to end the war, which has claimed over 67,000 lives in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health ministry figures. The UN has accused Israel of genocide, a charge Israel denies, while Hamas faces allegations of war crimes. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for a permanent cessation of hostilities, echoing global sentiments for peace.
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Showcasing the best of Ja’s south coast
A year after Hurricane Beryl devastated Jamaica’s south coast, the resilient parish of St Elizabeth is gearing up to host the second edition of the Treasure Beach Food, Rum, and Reggae Festival. Scheduled for November 7-9, the event promises three days of culinary delights, premium rum, and electrifying reggae performances, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the community. Festival Co-director Jason Henzell, speaking at the official media launch, highlighted the collective effort to rebuild and support local farmers and fisherfolk, emphasizing the festival’s role in community development. This year’s lineup includes performances by Chris Martin, Capleton, and Agent Sasco, alongside a vibrant farmer’s market and artisan village. Guided tours to iconic attractions like Lover’s Leap and Pelican Bar will further enrich the experience. Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining Floyd Green praised the festival’s positive impact on local tourism and the economy, while Minister of Entertainment and Culture Olivia Grange lauded the event as a celebration of Jamaica’s cultural legacy. A new addition to this year’s festivities is a breakfast party blending reggae and EDM, set to energize attendees on November 8. The festival’s return symbolizes not only recovery but also the enduring vibrancy of Jamaican culture.