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标签： Jamaica

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  • Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan

    Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan

    In a significant move to address the prolonged conflict in Gaza, the White House has unveiled a detailed 20-point plan aimed at ending the nearly two-year war, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and outlining a sustainable future for the Palestinian enclave. The plan, announced on Monday, was presented by President Donald Trump alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed cautious support for the initiative.

    The proposal begins with the establishment of Gaza as a deradicalised, terror-free zone, ensuring it no longer poses a threat to neighboring regions. It emphasizes the redevelopment of Gaza to benefit its residents, who have endured immense suffering. A key component of the plan is the immediate cessation of hostilities upon mutual agreement, with Israeli forces withdrawing to pre-defined lines to facilitate the release of hostages. Military operations, including aerial and artillery bombardments, will be suspended during this period.

    Within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance of the agreement, all hostages, both alive and deceased, are to be returned. In exchange, Israel will release 250 life-sentence prisoners and 1,700 Gazans detained after October 7, 2023, including all women and children. Hamas members committed to peaceful coexistence will be granted amnesty, and those wishing to leave Gaza will be provided safe passage.

    The plan also prioritizes humanitarian aid, ensuring the immediate delivery of essential supplies and the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure such as water, electricity, and hospitals. A temporary transitional governance structure, led by a technocratic Palestinian committee and overseen by an international ‘Board of Peace,’ will manage Gaza’s administration until the Palestinian Authority completes its reform program.

    Economic revitalization is a cornerstone of the proposal, with the creation of a special economic zone and the involvement of international experts to attract investment and foster job creation. The plan guarantees that no one will be forced to leave Gaza, while encouraging residents to stay and contribute to rebuilding their homeland.

    To ensure long-term security, the United States will collaborate with regional partners to establish an International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to train and support Palestinian police forces. The ISF will work alongside Israel and Egypt to secure border areas and prevent the flow of munitions into Gaza. Israel has committed to not occupying or annexing Gaza, with the IDF progressively withdrawing as stability is achieved.

    The plan also includes measures to promote interfaith dialogue, foster peaceful coexistence, and create a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood. The United States will facilitate ongoing dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to ensure a political horizon for peaceful and prosperous coexistence.

  • Jamaica Food and Drink Festival 2025 to serve up culinary innovation, cultural flair

    Jamaica Food and Drink Festival 2025 to serve up culinary innovation, cultural flair

    The Jamaica Food and Drink Festival 2025, set to take place from November 13 to 16, is poised to be a groundbreaking celebration of culinary creativity and cultural heritage. This year’s event, themed ‘Jamaican Food Reimagined,’ will feature a series of immersive experiences designed to elevate traditional Jamaican cuisine through innovative interpretations by renowned chefs. The festival kicks off on November 13 at ‘Kuyah’ in downtown Kingston, where patrons will savor inventive dishes crafted by 10 chefs, paired with local spirits and rums, all accompanied by live music. The festivities continue on November 14 at Hope Gardens with ‘Decade 2.0,’ showcasing a diverse culinary lineup, including pork palooza, chopstick, and picante, prepared by 25 chefs. On November 15, Ocean Boulevard will transform into a vibrant hub of street food, music, and entertainment, while the festival concludes on November 16 with the beloved ‘Boozy Brunch.’ The event, endorsed by Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining Floyd Green, aims to promote Jamaican food and culture on a global scale. Minister Green emphasized the festival’s role in expanding the export of Jamaican products, such as sauces and seasonings, while Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport Olivia Grange highlighted its significance in preserving and celebrating Jamaica’s rich food heritage. Festival Director Alicia Bogues noted the event’s growing popularity, both locally and internationally, and its ability to attract tourists seeking unique culinary experiences. Pre-sale tickets will be available from October 1, with purchases possible online or at designated outlets.

  • UPDATE: Police identify man killed at St Toolies River

    UPDATE: Police identify man killed at St Toolies River

    In a tragic incident near the Manchester/Clarendon border in Jamaica, 26-year-old Lavar Malcolm, a resident of Kintyre district in St Andrew, was fatally shot by an armed assailant on Sunday. Malcolm, who was also known as ‘Jamie Warlock’ on TikTok, was among a group of patrons at a section of the St Toolies River when the attack occurred. According to police reports, the gunman demanded Malcolm’s belongings, but Malcolm resisted, leading to multiple gunshots to his upper body. Law enforcement officials discovered five Blaze Luger 9mm spent casings at the scene. A senior police source suggested that the killing might be connected to an ongoing feud in the Papine area. The incident has sparked widespread attention on social media, where Malcolm was recognized as a popular influencer.

  • YFL Junior Cup more than celebration of football, says lead organiser

    YFL Junior Cup more than celebration of football, says lead organiser

    The highly anticipated fourth edition of the Youth Football League’s (YFL) Junior Cup is set to commence on October 4 at the Constant Spring field, with subsequent matches moving to Kirkvine, Manchester, on October 11. The all-island final will return to Constant Spring on October 18, where the top six teams will compete for the championship title. Hillel Prep, the defending champions, will aim to retain their crown in this prestigious tournament.

  • Muslim states join European powers in backing Trump Gaza plan

    Muslim states join European powers in backing Trump Gaza plan

    DOHA, Qatar — In a significant development, several Muslim-majority nations have expressed their support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The plan, which has also garnered backing from key European allies, aims to bring an immediate halt to the devastating war. However, some Palestinian factions and residents of Gaza have dismissed the initiative as a “farce” and a ploy to secure the release of hostages without addressing the root causes of the conflict.

  • Venezuela’s Maduro ready to declare state of emergency over US ‘aggression’ — VP

    Venezuela’s Maduro ready to declare state of emergency over US ‘aggression’ — VP

    Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is poised to declare a state of emergency in response to perceived US aggression, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez announced on Monday. Rodriguez informed foreign diplomats that Maduro has signed a decree granting himself ‘special powers’ to address defense and security matters should the US initiate an attack. However, a government source revealed to AFP that the decree has not yet been formally signed, though preparations are complete for its immediate enactment. Maduro’s administration has heightened alert levels following a significant US military deployment near Venezuela’s coast, including eight warships and a nuclear-powered submarine, ostensibly to combat drug trafficking but widely seen as a move to pressure the Venezuelan leader. Recent US strikes on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean, resulting in 14 deaths, have been condemned by UN experts as ‘extrajudicial executions.’ Reports suggest US military officials are considering operations within Venezuela’s borders to target drug traffickers. A state of emergency would enable Maduro, whose 2018 reelection remains internationally contested, to temporarily suspend basic rights. Rodriguez expressed confidence in national unity, asserting, ‘Venezuela is united in the defense of our country. We will never surrender our homeland.’

  • WATCH: McNeil Land residents call for permanent fix to the flooding problem

    WATCH: McNeil Land residents call for permanent fix to the flooding problem

    Residents of McNeil Land in Westmoreland, Jamaica, are grappling with severe and recurrent flooding exacerbated by heavy rainfall, prompting urgent calls for intervention from local authorities. The community, situated in a flood-prone area, has been inundated for months, with water levels reaching waist height in some instances. This has disrupted daily life, hindered transportation, and threatened livelihoods, including livestock farming. One resident lamented the inability to access their property to feed their pigs due to the overwhelming water levels. Despite repeated appeals to local councillor Ian Miles, residents claim their concerns have gone unaddressed. Member of Parliament for Western Westmoreland, Ian Hayles, has pledged to escalate the issue to central government agencies, including the National Works Agency and the Ministry of Local Government, to implement a permanent solution. Hayles acknowledged the community’s frustration and inconvenience, emphasizing the need for immediate action to alleviate the crisis.

  • ‘One Nation, New Symbols’ exhibition opens at National Gallery

    ‘One Nation, New Symbols’ exhibition opens at National Gallery

    The National Gallery of Jamaica (NGJ) launched its highly anticipated exhibition, ‘One Nation, New Symbols,’ on Sunday, September 28, 2025. The event, accompanied by live entertainment from Fatalic Sounds, marks a significant cultural milestone in the nation’s artistic landscape. Curated by Monique Barnett-Davidson, the exhibition aims to explore and reinterpret Jamaica’s rich history through a contemporary lens, fostering civic dialogue and national identity.

    Barnett-Davidson emphasized the exhibition’s mission to showcase the work of 43 Jamaican visual artists who celebrate, challenge, and reimagine the symbols that define the nation. From national emblems to everyday icons, the artworks reflect the lived experiences of Jamaicans, offering a profound commentary on social, political, and cultural themes. The exhibition will remain open to the public until March 29, 2026.

    The NGJ initiated a public call for submissions earlier this year, receiving 166 applications. A rigorous two-round judging process, overseen by a panel of stakeholders, culminated in the final selection of participating artists. Notable contributors include Justeen Bailey, Kimani Beckford, Stephanie Brown, and Dana-Marie Bullock, among others.

    Barnett-Davidson highlighted the exhibition’s broader objectives: reimagining national symbolism through contemporary art, amplifying Jamaican artistic voices, and promoting civic engagement through accessible public exhibitions. ‘This platform allows artists to respond to current societal conditions using visual language, continuing the tradition of art as a powerful form of social commentary,’ she added.

    The opening event also featured key figures from the NGJ, including Nadine Boothe-Gooden, acting senior director, and Shawna-Lee Tai, assistant curator, alongside representatives from sponsors like Häagen-Dazs.

  • SLB diversifying loan options for alternative education pathways

    SLB diversifying loan options for alternative education pathways

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to adapt to evolving educational and employment trends, the Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) of Jamaica has unveiled plans to diversify its loan offerings. The initiative aims to cater to Jamaicans seeking flexible learning opportunities beyond traditional degree programs, including professional certifications and emerging skill areas crucial for national development.

  • JCF strengthening domestic violence intervention capacity through UNFPA training

    JCF strengthening domestic violence intervention capacity through UNFPA training

    In a significant step toward enhancing domestic violence intervention, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Domestic Violence Intervention Unit recently completed a comprehensive training program. Conducted in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the three-day initiative took place at the Sea Garden Hotel in Montego Bay, St James, from September 24 to September 26. The program targeted centre managers and liaison officers, equipping them with advanced skills and knowledge to address domestic violence more effectively. Key focus areas included the Domestic Violence Policy, standard operating procedures, the impact of social media on domestic violence, and the critical role of mental health in intervention efforts. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Jacqueline Dillon, head of the JCF’s Domestic Violence Intervention Programme, emphasized the dual purpose of the training as both a refresher and a wellness initiative. She highlighted the importance of ensuring officers are mentally prepared to handle the complexities of domestic violence cases. Detective Sergeant Damion Hammond, sub-officer in charge of the unit, underscored the timeliness of the training, noting the increasing prevalence of domestic violence in Jamaica. He expressed confidence that the program would enhance the quality of service provided to citizens. Participants, including Sergeant Desiree McLeod from the St Elizabeth Domestic Violence Intervention Centre, praised the training for its relevance and depth, particularly the mental health awareness segment. Sergeant Moesha Allen, liaison officer for the St Andrew South Division, pointed to a rise in domestic violence reports as evidence of growing community trust in the police. Sergeant Kester Fennel of the St Catherine North Division urged victims to seek help, assuring them of professional and empathetic support. The training also benefited from contributions by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Court Administration Division, and the Bureau of Gender Affairs. Established to address global population and reproductive health challenges, the UNFPA remains committed to combating gender inequality and gender-based violence worldwide.