In a significant move to bolster disaster preparedness, over 47 disaster management professionals from the Caribbean and beyond have united to establish the region’s inaugural Shelter Technical Working Group. This initiative, launched during the peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, is spearheaded by the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). The group aims to enhance emergency shelter operations, ensure equitable aid distribution, and foster safer, more inclusive disaster responses for affected populations. Tamara Lovell, a community resilience specialist at CDEMA, emphasized that the group marks the beginning of a dedicated shelter management community for the Caribbean, with plans to develop a core team to advance shelter management strategies. Since its launch, weekly meetings have cultivated a collaborative community poised to address urgent shelter needs. The working group has also introduced a WhatsApp community for real-time updates and peer support, alongside a dedicated website for resource sharing, technical guidance, and news dissemination. Upcoming sessions will focus on critical issues such as relief goods quality, gender-based violence, cash support, and sustainable shelter solutions. The group will also coordinate technical support, organize training, and mobilize relief supplies for rapid deployment during disasters. Key partners, including national disaster offices, local civil society, and NGOs, are actively participating. Emergency items like plastic sheets, toolkits, solar lamps, tents, generators, and hygiene materials have already been stockpiled at CDEMA’s Logistics Hub in Barbados by organizations such as IOM, ShelterBox, GSD, UNICEF, and the Red Cross. Jan-Willem Wegdam, IOM’s emergency coordinator for the Caribbean, urged collective action, stating, ‘Let’s shape this agenda together. Let’s make this a welcoming community where your ideas and energy drive impact—and where we enjoy working together toward a safer Caribbean.’ The working group is supported by IOM under the Resilient Caribbean Project, funded by the European Union and launched virtually earlier this month.
标签： Jamaica
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Bellefield High sets sights on ending shift system
MANDEVILLE, Manchester — Bellefield High School is making significant strides toward eliminating its shift system, a long-standing challenge for the institution. The recent inauguration of an eight-classroom block, constructed at a cost of $75 million through independent funding, marks a pivotal step in this journey. Principal Paul Grant emphasized the need for an additional 16 classrooms to fully transition to a whole-day operation mode for its 1,400 students.
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Guyana-born school superintendent arrested by immigration authorities
In a startling development, Dr. Ian Andre Roberts, a Guyana-born educator and superintendent of Iowa’s largest public school district, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday. The 48-year-old, who has a distinguished career in education and represented Guyana in track and field at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, is accused of residing and working in the United States illegally since 1999. Roberts, who holds advanced degrees from prestigious institutions including Georgetown University and Harvard, allegedly entered the country on a student visa but failed to maintain legal status. An immigration judge issued a final removal order against him in May 2024, which ICE claims was never executed. Roberts was apprehended after reportedly evading an initial encounter with ICE agents. During his arrest, authorities discovered a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a hunting knife in his possession. Federal law prohibits undocumented individuals from owning firearms, and the case is now under investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Sam Olson, director of ICE’s St. Paul Field Office, stated that Roberts was found with the weapon in a vehicle provided by Des Moines Public Schools. Roberts, who assumed the role of superintendent in July 2023, had disclosed a prior firearm charge during his hiring process. The school board expressed shock at his detention, claiming they were unaware of the removal order. Roberts had passed third-party background checks and submitted necessary employment documentation, raising questions about the oversight in his appointment.
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‘Deliver real change’
In a powerful address at the 80th United Nations (UN) General Assembly debate, Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness condemned the failure of developed nations to fulfill their climate finance commitments and criticized the global financial system for marginalizing vulnerable states. Holness emphasized the urgent need for reforms to make the UN more inclusive and responsive to the needs of smaller nations, particularly those grappling with the escalating impacts of climate change.
Holness highlighted Jamaica’s significant strides in fiscal discipline, reducing its debt-to-GDP ratio from 144% to 62%, yet underscored the persistent challenges in accessing affordable financing. Despite limited resources, Jamaica has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and is on track to meet its renewable energy target of 50% by 2030. However, the Prime Minister lamented that these efforts are hampered by a flawed global financing system that imposes high borrowing costs on reforming economies while ignoring their vulnerabilities.
He called out wealthy nations for repeatedly failing to deliver on their $100 billion annual climate finance pledge, describing the $800 million initial capitalisation of the COP28 loss and damage fund as grossly inadequate. Holness advocated for a new approach to measuring countries’ needs through the multidimensional vulnerability index, which would ensure fairer access to affordable loans. He also endorsed innovative financing mechanisms, such as debt-for-climate swaps and mixed funding, to attract private investment and alleviate debt burdens.
Beyond climate finance, Holness addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel while expressing deep concern over Israel’s counteroffensive. He called for a diplomatic resolution, urging adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 242 and a ceasefire agreement that includes the release of hostages.
Turning to Haiti, Holness, who chairs the Caribbean Community (Caricom), urged UN member states to act on the Secretary-General’s recommendations by establishing a stronger hybrid mechanism to address the crisis. He stressed that security operations alone are insufficient and called for rebuilding democratic institutions, ensuring free elections, and expanding humanitarian relief once stability is restored.
Holness also highlighted the global threat posed by transnational criminal gangs, describing them as global syndicates with resources rivaling nation-states. He called for a coordinated international campaign to combat organized crime, urging full implementation of the UN’s program on small arms and light weapons.
Concluding his speech, Holness challenged the global community to address pressing issues such as climate change, debt, poverty, conflicts, and crime through collective action. “Jamaica stands ready to work with all member states in partnership and solidarity to create a future defined by peace, prosperity, and dignity for all,” he declared.
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18 dead, dozens missing in Nigeria mine collapse: local sources
A devastating incident unfolded in Nigeria’s Zamfara state as a massive boulder collapsed onto an illegal mining site during heavy rains, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 individuals and leaving dozens more trapped. The tragedy occurred on Thursday near Kadauri village in the Maru district, according to local sources. Rescuers, including miners working in unauthorized pits, have been laboriously attempting to recover victims using rudimentary tools, as they await heavy machinery to aid their efforts. Sani Lawwali, a miner involved in the rescue operation, described the process as slow and grueling, with rescuers chiseling through the boulder by hand to create access points. The death toll was confirmed by Abubakar Nabube, a community leader, who expressed grave concerns about the survival chances of those still trapped if emergency assistance does not arrive soon. The collapse occurred at a newly established mining site, where dozens of miners were working despite the heavy rainfall. Illegal artisanal mining is rampant in Zamfara, a state rich in gold deposits, despite repeated government efforts to curb the practice. Authorities have linked illegal mining to escalating bandit violence, as criminal gangs exploit miners for protection fees. Emergency agencies have yet to respond to inquiries about the incident.
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JWN Foundation prepares scholarship recipients for the world of work
Over 50 scholarship recipients from the J Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation recently participated in a transformative workshop aimed at equipping them with essential skills for their academic and professional journeys. The event focused on effective communication, wardrobe essentials, and business etiquette, preparing students for the transition from high school to university and from university to the workplace. The one-day session also emphasized self-care and personal development, ensuring participants are well-rounded individuals ready to face life’s challenges. Corporate and image consultant Althea Laing, a trailblazer in the fashion industry and Jamaica’s first supermodel, delivered an inspiring presentation on the importance of first impressions, professionalism, and self-confidence. Laing, who defied stereotypes in her career, encouraged the students to celebrate their uniqueness and build meaningful networks. The workshop also included professional headshots by LH Multimedia, enhancing the recipients’ online professional presence. JWN Foundation General Manager Garfene Grandison highlighted the initiative’s goal to leave a lasting impact on students, particularly those from underserved and rural communities. The day concluded with an awards ceremony, marking the first time the foundation hosted a workshop of this nature. Makeup artist Shanique Ellington and her team provided glam makeovers, while Ellington emphasized the value of versatility in business and entrepreneurship. Participants, including Ruth-Ann Alexander and Tisayra Jones, expressed gratitude for the invaluable lessons and experiences gained. The event underscored JWN Foundation’s commitment to empowering young individuals to excel in their personal and professional lives.
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Trump authorises ‘full force’ troop deployment in Portland
In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of military troops to Portland, Oregon, extending his administration’s domestic use of the armed forces to bolster his aggressive immigration policies. This decision follows similar actions in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., where federal troops were mobilized against the objections of local Democratic leaders. Trump’s announcement, made via his Truth Social platform, cited the need to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities from attacks by left-wing activists, whom he labeled as ‘domestic terrorists.’ The president also hinted at the potential use of ‘full force’ if necessary, though details remain unclear. The Pentagon has yet to comment on the matter. Protests in Portland have persisted for months, with demonstrators intermittently blocking ICE facilities, leading to occasional clashes. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, a Democrat, dismissed the deployment as unnecessary, stating that Portland faces no national security threat and urging residents to remain calm. Critics, including Oregon Senator Ron Wyden, condemned Trump’s actions as an ‘authoritarian takeover’ aimed at inciting violence. This move comes in the wake of recent deadly shootings, including an attack on an ICE facility in Texas, which federal officials linked to anti-ICE sentiment. Trump has also escalated his rhetoric against left-wing groups, designating ‘Antifa’ as a domestic terrorist organization and signing an executive order to investigate ‘organized political violence.’ Critics fear these measures could be used to suppress dissent under the guise of national security.
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Digicel begins roll-out to solarise half its mobile network
Digicel Jamaica has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to solarize more than half of its 930 cell sites across the country. This multimillion-dollar project, executed in collaboration with U.S.-based Caban Energy, aims to enhance network resilience against weather-related disruptions and frequent power outages while reducing reliance on diesel generators. Over the next 12 months, 511 sites will be equipped with solar panels and battery systems, providing a robust backup power solution to meet the ever-growing demand for mobile data. The initiative was officially launched at a ribbon-cutting ceremony near Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport, attended by Digicel executives and country managers from across the Caribbean. The move comes in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl in July 2023, which left large sections of the island without power for weeks. Digicel Jamaica CEO Stephen Murad emphasized the project’s alignment with the government’s call for telecom providers to strengthen service continuity during crises. Caban Energy’s technology will generate electricity onsite and store excess power in battery packs, significantly reducing downtime and fuel costs. Digicel estimates the initiative will produce over 15,000 megawatt hours of clean energy annually and cut carbon emissions by approximately 38,000 tonnes. Caban Energy CEO Alexandra Rasch Castillo highlighted the project’s dual focus on sustainability and resilience, noting the Caribbean’s vulnerability to severe weather. While Jamaica is the first market to benefit, the partnership will expand to Digicel’s 25 other markets across the region, setting a new standard for clean, reliable, and future-ready telecom infrastructure.
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House of Representatives to host orientation for new members
Jamaica’s Parliament is set to welcome its 10 newly elected Members of the House of Representatives with an official Orientation Day at Gordon House on Tuesday, September 30. This event marks a pivotal step in preparing the newcomers for their legislative roles. Among the new MPs, nine were elected under the People’s National Party banner during the September 3 General Election, while one represents the Jamaica Labour Party. The orientation aims to equip the members with a comprehensive understanding of parliamentary operations and the support services available to them. Key sessions will feature presentations from the clerk, the marshal, and representatives from critical departments such as human resources, accounts, Hansard, the legal counsel’s office, and communications. Additionally, the event will familiarize the new MPs with the physical layout of Gordon House and the JMEA Annex, including the Chamber, conference rooms, library, and members’ lounge. Practical arrangements, such as HR and accounts consultations, ID processing, and official portrait photography, will ensure the MPs are fully prepared for their duties from the outset. Floyd Green, Leader of Government Business in the House of Representatives, emphasized the significance of the orientation, stating, “For our new members, orientation is about laying the groundwork for service. They are stepping into Parliament at a critical time for Jamaica, and it’s essential they have the tools, knowledge, and support to hit the ground running.” Green also highlighted ongoing efforts to finalize the membership of select sessional committees to ensure they can commence work immediately after the House’s first sitting. Notably, the tradition of Opposition members chairing all sessional committees, established in 2007 by former Prime Minister Bruce Golding, was overturned in 2020 by Prime Minister Andrew Holness. Since then, only the Public Accounts Committee and Public Administration and Appropriations Committee remain under Opposition leadership. Opposition Leader Mark Golding reiterated his dissent against this change during the swearing-in ceremony of new MPs on September 18.
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Appeal court Judge urges greater sensitivity towards homeless and mentally challenged
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Justice Paulette Williams, a Judge of Appeal, has called for heightened sensitivity and care in addressing the plight of homeless individuals and those grappling with mental health issues. Her remarks came during the opening of the Michaelmas Term of the Court of Appeal in downtown Kingston on September 22, where she highlighted the persistent challenges posed by such individuals within the court’s environment.