Year: 2023

Stepping up and reaching out

Jamaica Observer column published Monday 11 December 2023

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Keith Duncan.

Even the most cynical tribalist should pause to celebrate the findings of the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC) as Chairman Keith Duncan outlined the country’s economic achievements in the first six months of the current financial year, April to September 2023.

Duncan noted the key highlights:

• “For the second consecutive month, the inflation rate (5.1 per cent for October 2023) has remained within the BOJ’s [Bank of Jamaica] target range but is projected to rise above the target between December 2023 and March 2025.

• For April-September 2023, tax revenues exceeded the second supplementary estimates by $6.9 billion (1.8 per cent), while total expenditure was marginally in line with the budgeted estimates.

• Jamaica records a current account surplus (CAS) of US$241 million, marking the first surplus in over two decades.

• Net international reserves (NIR) stood at US$4.6 billion at end-October 31, 2023 and remain more than adequate

• Real GDP (gross domestic product) was estimated to have grown by 1.9 per cent for the July-September 2023 quarter.”

Duncan noted that tourist arrivals continue to exceed pre-COVID levels: “In the September 2023 quarter Jamaica welcomed 678,057 tourists, a year-over-year increase of 8.8 per cent. Visitor arrivals for the September 2023 quarter showed a 7.7 per cent increase compared to the pre-pandemic period of September 2019.” He said an additional 2,500 hotel rooms will be added next year as well.

International rating agencies have taken note of our progress, with the Moody’s Investor Service adjusting the country’s economic outlook from ‘stable’ to ‘positive’, following positive evaluations by Standard and Poor’s Global Ratings in September 2023 and Fitch Ratings in March 2023.

Project Star widens focus

Of course, the elephant in the room is crime. States of emergency have been declared in five parishes. Acknowledging that we must address the root of this national affliction, there are initiatives to hire more social workers and HEART/NSTA Trust courses are being offered free of charge.

Wearing another hat, Keith Duncan, founder of Project Star, the social and economic development initiative, will be extending the programme to the Salt Spring district in St James. The programme, which is a collaboration between the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), is focused on unattached youth, linking them to training and employment opportunities as well as involving them in sports activities.

We should acknowledge that the JCF has been the initiator of the largest sports club in Jamaica, which has influenced many young people for good and provides an excellent alliance for the work of Project Star. The project’s activities have been going strong in east downtown Kingston, Savanna-la-Mar, and May Pen.

Big boost for education

Over the past year the Digicel Jamaica Foundation has built out six ‘Smart Rooms’ at Mineral Heights Primary School, Four Paths Primary School, Homestead Primary School, Esher Primary School, Unity Primary School, and Morant Bay Primary School. Each Smart Room is equipped with the latest technology and interactive learning tools, including 12 laptops, 12 tablets, a smart board, and a printer. There are four other such projects in the pipeline.

Meanwhile, it is funding the extensive renovation underway at the Hope Valley Experimental Special Education Centre, described as “a beacon of inclusive education for special needs children”, and the early childhood institution at Bull Bay Primary and Infant School to ensure they are certified.

Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, noted at the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Education, “We believe in the transformative power of education and are honoured to partner with these institutions. We are excited to contribute to the growth and development of these schools, ensuring that they provide the best educational experience for their students.”

Marubeni shares the joy

Marubeni senior executives distributed scores of care packages last Thursday at the Drews Avenue and Mountain View primary schools. Mo Majeed, CEO of Marubeni Caribbean power company; Damian Obiglio, senior vice-president (VP) for Caribbean operations; senior VP Keisuke Harada; and VP Takuya Kokawa assisted in unloading the hefty packages, each containing two weeks of groceries for a family of four.

Parents, teachers, and students at both schools gave a lively welcome to the group and children asked to hear Japanese expressions.

“This marks the second consecutive year that Marubeni has undertaken such a meaningful outreach programme with Food For the Poor,” said Majeed. “Last year we directed our efforts towards supporting the Hart Hill community in Portland, and this year we are extending our reach to touch the lives of students in Kingston… It is a hands-on approach as we are committed to making a difference through personal interaction with the people we serve.”

IGT supports teen moms

Last month, multinational International Gaming Technology company (IGT) upgraded its high-tech After School Advantage Centre at the Mustard Seed residence for teen mothers, Mary’s Child. IGT managers toured the facility recently, providing a memorable Christmas treat, gifting the 13 teenagers and 12 babies at the residence.

“The world has become more technology-centric… There is an unprecedented increase in women pursuing STEM careers, and the call for more women in STEM careers is ongoing,” advised Debbie Green, IGT Jamaica general manager. “This is an opportunity to make your mark.”

Since 2011, long before STEM buzz, IGT has been creating these well-equipped centres throughout the English-speaking Caribbean in charitable residences and community centres. Jamaica has 15 of the 40 now in operation.

CCRP reaches out

CCRP’s diligent Caring Committee members and parish representatives have been distributing packages of groceries and personal care products valued $650,000 to needy elders islandwide.

The willing participants are Caring Committee Chair Verla Seymour; former Chair Irene Walter; western convenor Dr Norma Taylor; north-east convenor Pixley Irons; board director Peter Mais for Portland; Reverend Franklyn Sephestine for St Thomas; Kingston and St Andrew parish representative Ludwig Streete; Rev Recardo Malcolm and Sister Yvonne Stevens of the Salem Circuit of Moravian Churches; Rev Barrington Litchmore; Patricia Christie and Elet DeSouza of Providence Church; central Jamaica Caring Committee members Peggy Russell and Leighton Ritch; Rev Monneica Duncan of St Marks Anglican Church; Rev Eddie Jennings of the Church of the Lord’s Transfiguration; Sonia Hurd and the Hope United Seniors Exercise Group; and Westmoreland parish representative Charmaine Allen.

iCreate Founder Wilson Is Back

If resilience were a person, its name would be Tyrone Wilson. The intrepid founder of iCreate, which has been listed on the Junior Stock Exchange since 2019, is back in the saddle as executive chairman after his resignation in September.

The young visionary had founded iCreate to provide skills training and development of creatives in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. Thousands of creatives benefited from their courses, including 500 CCRP members to whom they offered free IT introductory courses.

iCreate’s reformulated board comprises Wilson, private equity investor Anthony Dunn, Adrian Smith, Larren Peart, and marketing expert Donovan White. I am acquainted with the latter two and have the highest respect for them.

With Visual Vibe and payment company WiPay as subsidiaries as well as the goodwill of their stakeholders, iCreate is geared for a successful re-embarkation.

Season’s Blessings

As I will be taking a few weeks off from my column, here’s wishing you all a safe and peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We’re feeling the heat

Jamaica Observer column published Monday 4, December 2023

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

Jamaica registered its highest temperatures on record in 2023.

When our children were little our Saturday ritual was an early morning visit to Hellshire beach. Our little ones would play in the sand, wade at the edge of the water, and enjoy the soft morning sun.

That beach has now disappeared. The hut where we bought fish and festival, several metres from the shoreline, is now at its edge. There are similar stories all around the island and yet we continue to be cavalier about climate change.

Environmentalists like Eleanor Jones, founder of Environmental Solutions, and Diana McCaulay, founder of Jamaica Environment Trust, have been schooling and warning us about Jamaica’s vulnerability as a small island developing state (SIDS).

It is encouraging that Jamaica and our Caribbean neighbours are well represented at the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties, happening now till December 12 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). COP 28 to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an international climate summit, which has been held mostly annually over the past 30 years.

The conferences have yielded steps towards mitigating the effects of climate change, including the Kyoto Protocol for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in 1997 and the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015. With 195 signatories in the following year, the Paris Agreement mobilised global collective action to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100 and act to adapt to the already existing effects of climate change.

COP28, with its theme ‘Unite. Act. Deliver’, is taking place as our planet and our own Jamaica have been recording the warmest temperatures. This is the harbinger of forest fires, floods, a clear and present danger to food security. After a long, dry summer and two days of heavy rains and flooding in November our farmers are suffering from repeated bouts of damaged crops.

Developed countries are responsible for some 98 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions but it is the developing countries that are suffering from the impact. Billions were pledged over the past four days to address this, while several large fossil fuel (oil/gas) companies pledged to reduce methane emissions to a minimal level by 2030.

“Extreme weather is destroying lives and livelihoods on a daily basis — underlining the imperative need to ensure that everyone is protected by early warning services,” said Professor Petteri Taalas, secretary general of the World Meteorological Organization, which has raised an alarm at the rapidly melting glaciers around Antarctica, resulting in rising sea levels.

With our resort towns, farms, and fisheries at risk, Jamaica and our faithful investors have an important role to play in holding the countries and companies to the pledges made at COP28.

Jamaica rates high for tourist safety.

On a positive note, Jamaica has been rated as one of the safest Caribbean and Latin American destinations by the renowned Gallup. According to its findings from a survey conducted in 141 US states, Jamaica scored 75 out of 100, “coming slightly ahead of the US territory of Puerto Rico at 74; followed by Brazil, 73; Argentina, 70; Mexico, 66; Venezuela, 66; the Dominican Republic, 64; Peru, 61; and Ecuador, 59.”

The report published in the Jamaica Observer also noted: “According to [Tourism Minister Edmund] Bartlett, 1.05 million airline seats have been secured from nearly 6,000 flights coming into the island out of the United States — Jamaica’s biggest source market — during the winter season, which begins on December 15. The surge in airlift, he said, represents an increase of 13 per cent over winter 2022/2023, when Jamaica recorded 923,000 airline seats.”

Posting on social media over the weekend, a euphoric Bartlett wrote: “Jamaica wins big at World Travel Awards 30th Anniversary Banquet in Dubai tonight. Minister Bartlett received, on behalf of Jamaica, two awards: World leading Family Destination and World Leading Cruise Destination! So proud of the great piece of Rock I represent — JAMAICA.”

With our continued success in the industry, last Friday MBJ Airports Limited welcomed the inaugural flight of Norse Atlantic Airlines from London (Gatwick), UK. Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports, remarked that Jamaica was “one of their first international destinations. Our aim is to foster your growth. Recognising that you are a new airline, we are thrilled to partner with you and establish a mutually beneficial relationship going forward”.

The inaugural flight had 185 passengers on-board, including notable representatives from the UK and Nordic consumer press, commercial director at Norse Atlantic Airways, Baard Nordhagen, and Torrance Lewis, Jamaica Tourist Board’s UK district sales manager.

Daryl Vaz, minister of science, energy, telecommunications and transport noted: “This is a significant milestone in the relentless and collaborative efforts that have gone into connecting two diverse, culturally rich regions by the key stakeholders in the aviation industry.”

Renewed interest in Guyana

All was quiet around the border shared by Venezuela and Guyana until the latter struck oil and gas, then a deluge of investors descended on the country. Suddenly, Venezuela announced that it was contesting a previous ruling on the legal border between the two countries and would be holding a referendum on December 3 on the matter.

Last Friday the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN’s highest court, ordered Venezuela not to take any action that would alter Guyana’s control over the disputed territory, the 160,000 square kilometre Essequibo territory, but did not order a ban on Venezuela’s planned referendum on the territory’s future held yesterday.

Both Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali and Venezuelan Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez described the decision as a victory. By the time this column is published we would have heard the results of the referendum, which has neighbouring states and Caricom on tenterhooks.

In an Observer report Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Kamina Johnson Smith was quoted as saying, “The Government of Jamaica remains firmly committed to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, as enshrined in the United Nations Charter. Jamaica fully supports the work of the ICJ and its ability to deliver justice where there is breach of the United Nations’ founding principles in an impartial, transparent, and independent manner. In this regard, Guyana can continue to count on Jamaica’s support of the Caricom position in defence of its sovereign rights and territorial integrity.”

Mercy for Haitian refugees

The responses from Portland residents regarding the treatment of Haitian refugees have been interesting. Erica Curtis was quoted as saying that we should have a more Christian-like approach to the Haitians and accept them as, “That’s what Jesus says.”

One can understand the resistance of some Jamaicans to this approach as there have been frightening reports on gang warfare in Haiti. However, please remember that headlines do not always tell the full story on a country and its people. Haiti is far ahead of us in art, craft, and iron works. They carve expressive figures even from the smallest pieces of wood, and one is greeted by exquisite iron designs at the airport.

With Jamaica facing a labour shortage, perhaps there may be promising workers among those who are fleeing Haiti. They should be given a chance.

Groups of Haitians have been arriving on Jamaica’s shores in recent times. Photo credit: Everard Owen

I can see clearly now.

Jamaica Observer column published Monday 27 November 2023

by Jean Lowrie-Chin

We emerged from the storm, and in the days following, the blue skies, freshly washed trees, and blossoming shrubs refreshed our spirits. My friends in the hilly parts of Jamaica had a few scares, but thankfully, they can now joke about them. However, our farmers and citizens who have been left with losses and expensive repairs.

According to the old saying, “Every crisis is an opportunity,” and we now have a clearer view of what needs to be tackled to minimize a repeat of these crises.

We can learn from our tourism interests who reported no damage despite sustained rains in the west. Just as they continued to fill their rooms without a hiccup, we can strengthen the resilience of the building and agriculture sectors.

The introduction of tougher penalties for praedial larceny and a Rural Agricultural Development Agency (RADA) app for the farming community are significant steps for a sector in which crops and products are gaining momentum worldwide. A Jamaican in New York told me of a distributor who is ready to distribute any Jamaican food he can get his hands on – be it produce, sauces, or our Christmas cake.

Our Jamaican Diaspora, spanning the US, Canada, and the UK, is estimated to be two million – two million who yearn for our flavours and warmth. We understand that there is a growing Jamaican cohort of tourists, and when you watch the food channels you see food trucks are sought after not only by Jamaicans but by a fast-growing number of converts.

The building industry is racing along and, for the most part, producing long-needed housing solutions and opportunities for the Airbnb sector. The recent landslide in Jacks Hill is a teaching moment for developers and the authorities. There is still a considerable amount of undeveloped land, with fewer risks, so let us take the necessary steps to avoid costly mistakes.

The highway systems are opening up development opportunities islandwide. I met a charming, retired couple who had lived all their lives in St Catherine. They opted to move to Trelawny and have no regrets.

The most pressing need is to find decent shelter for the poor. Food For the Poor has made this a priority in its 40th year. There are guidelines for qualifying for these homes, the first being ownership or long lease of the land on which they want to build. It was heartening to hear that land titling is moving apace as this will promote eligibility.

We understand that modest schemes and apartment buildings are also being spearheaded by the Government. Economists see homeownership as one of the driving forces for a robust economy. Indeed, it is a right of every Jamaican, especially with more frequent climate incidents occurring.

As we watch the growing refugee camps, wars, and starvation around the world, we in Jamaica have much for which to be thankful. Our problems seem small in comparison, and we have the wherewithal to solve them.

Election Season

Election season is here, and the 360-degree use of media is impressive. The “Greens” are currently outpacing the “Oranges” in social media. The postings of constituency conferences show impressive attendance. The Oranges are yet to show their marketing hand.

We should appreciate this splendid acknowledgement of our democratic system. I saw a few offensive remarks being traded but on the whole, it has been a pretty decent campaign. Let’s keep the light of democracy shining and respect each other’s political choices even if we do not agree with them. The most important place for your voice to be heard is in the ballot box.

A chance for juveniles

Instead of allowing them to learn from the wrong influencers, Agent Sasco’s Banks of Hope Foundation and the Forward Step Foundation initiated by Miguel “Steppa” Williams have been nurturing the talent of juveniles in correctional facilities.

Digicel Foundation partnered with Agent Sasco’s Banks of Hope Foundation to supply musical equipment for the wards ar the Metcalfe Street Juvenile Centre for the building of a music studio at the facility. They were assisted by the ever-generous Music Mart owners.

In August, Forward Step Foundation conducted Creative Expression Workshops across four juvenile correctional facilities, involving 200 juvenile offenders. Their music and shared experiences gave hope. The initiative aims to benefit citizens in remote areas by creating jobs, improving living conditions, and facilitating social transitioning.

Creating a blue zone for cancer

The Northern Caribbean University (NCU) held a seminar last week titled Creating a Blue Zone for Cancer. Dr Owen James, one of the facilitators, as well as an award-winning family doctor and CCRP board director shared thoughts on the discussion.

“The seminar was essentially to share, collect, collate, and later disseminate information from/to interested parties relating to making Jamaica one of the places enjoying longevity (Blue Zone), controlling prevalence of diseases like cancer, by modification of lifestyle.”

He continued, “To this end there were presentations on occurrence, severity, and costs of management of certain cancers, including cancers in children and the very difficult disease of multiple myeloma.”

He said the seminar shared sources of sponsorship and the valueable role of the National Health Fund (NHF), which recently extended its list of diseases eligible for coverage, including multiple myeloma.

A statement on cancer from the World Health Organization noted, “To achieve the target of reducing premature mortality from cancer and other NCDs (non-communicable disease), these gaps must be filled with evidence-based and cost effective programmes that facilitate early diagnosis and access to treatment and palliative care for all.”

IDEVAW #NOEXCUSE

Today is the third of the 16 days of activism, which started on Saturday, November 25, for the International Day for the Eliminiation of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW).

We in Jamaica are distressed at the horrific acts of violence committed against our women and girls. The statistics from UN Women tell a harrowing story:

  •   More than five women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family.

  • Almost one in three women have been subjected to physical and/or sexual violence at least once in their life.

  • 86% of women and girls live in countries without legal protections against gender-based violence.

Let us join with government and non-governmental organizations to raise awareness of this blight on our country. Share widely the contact numbers on this page so women in danger know where to turn for help and shelter before it is too late.  Please use the #NoExcuse slogan in all your social media postings on the protection of women and girls during these 16 days of activism ending December 10, International Human Rights Day.

Numbers in Jamaica to call for help.

Mineral Heights Primary School Gets Smart Room

Minister of Labour and Social Security, and Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Eastern, Hon.
Pearnel Charles Jr., cuts the ribbon to open a new Smart Room at the Mineral Heights Primary School. The facility was handed over by the Foundation on November 14. Sharing the moment (from left) are Minister of Education and Youth Regional Director, Region 7. Barrington Richardson; Mineral Heights Primary School Board Chairman, Collin Coke; Principal, Lanzeford Howell; and CEO of the Digicel Foundation, Charmaine Daniels. (Contributed photo)

Minister of Labour and Social Security, and Member of Parlament for Clarendon South Eastern, Hon Pearnel Charles Jr. (left) and Ministry of Education and Youth Regional Director, Region 7, Barrington Richardson, welcome Mineral Heights Primary School students to the school’s new Smart Room, which was handed over by the Digicel Foundation on November 11. (Contributed photo)

Minister of Labour and Social Security, and Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Eastern, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., engages with students of Mineral Heights Mineral School while attending the ceremony for the handover of a Smart Room at the institution by the Digicel Foundation on November 14. (Contributed photo)

Minister of Labour and Social Security and Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Eastern, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., helps a Mineral Heights Primary School student to tie his shoelaces, when the Minister visited the institution on Tuesday (November 14) to participate in the handover of a Smart Room by the Digicel Foundation.
Minister of Labour and Social Security and Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Eastern, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., helps a Mineral Heights Primary School student to tie his shoelaces, when the Minister visited the institution on Tuesday (November 14) to participate in the handover of a Smart Room by the Digicel Foundation. (Contributed photo)

Source: Jamaica Information Service https://jis.gov.jm/photos-mineral-heights-primary-school-gets-smart-room/

Clarendon-based primary schools get ‘smart’ room, courtesy of Digicel Foundation

Two Clarendon-based primary schools are the latest schools to benefit from a ‘smart’ room, courtesy of the Digicel Foundation under their STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) initiative. Looking on as students of Four Paths Primary and Infant School try out the laptops in their new ‘smart’ room, which was officially opened on November 9 are (from left): Digicel Foundation Board Director Ewort Atkinson; School Principal Rose-Marie Logan; Regional Director, Ministry of Education and Youth, Barrington Richardson; Member of Parliament for South-Western Clarendon, Lothan Cousins; and Four Paths Primary and Infant Board Chair, Audrey E. Murray.

180 benefit from proceeds of Team Sangster Charity Run/Walk

The elated Commercial Department Team which initiated and coordinates the MBJ Team Sangster Charity Run Walk annually, from left, Sharon Hislop-Holt, Commercial Manager, Nadia Anglin-Nolan, Statistics & Air Service Coordinator, Mellissa Bernard, Commercial Coordinator, Shanice Sampson, Commercial Advertising Clerk, and Shanelle Grizzle, Business Development Analyst, all present at the MBJ Charity Run Walk Grant ceremony, held recently.

Approximately 180 students are set to benefit from academic grants from the Team Sangster Charity Run/Walk organised by MBJ Airports Limited (MBJ), operator of the Sangster International Airport (SIA). 

At the awards and handover ceremony, which was hosted on the grounds of SIA, students from across western Jamaica proudly clad in uniforms were feted to an inspirational evening of activities and entertainment. The recipients ranged from the primary education level to those pursuing tertiary studies at both local and international universities. 

Through their many sponsors, MBJ Airports was able to raise J$11 million during the third staging of the charity run/walk, held on September 11. This is a remarkable increase from the $4.5 million raised in 2022, when 50 students were direct recipients of academic grants.

An impressive 87 individuals and four community groups consisting of 90 youths are beneficiaries of this year’s grants. 

For Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports, this initiative is a testament to the positive impact that can be made when corporate entities join hands and hearts to make a difference in the community. 

Recipients of MBJ’s Team Sangster Charity Run/Walk Grants could not contain their excitement after an evening of inspiration and entertainment. At right is Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited.

“Two words stand out today – unity and purpose. Today we are here for this special award ceremony where we have a chance to contribute towards a brighter future and that is made possible through education and community support,” Munroe said during his address on Monday. 

The CEO further underscored MBJ’s commitment to supporting the educational pursuits of students who need financial backing. 

“MBJ is not just a gateway to Jamaica, our beautiful island, but also a cornerstone of this community. We believe that it is essential that we all thrive so we must ensure that the community develops and grows as well. This 5K/10K fund-raising event is a testament to our commitment and every step taken is a step towards a dream, a step towards an aspiration and a future leader,” he said.  

Manager of commercial, business development & marketing at MBJ Airports Limited, Sharon Hislop-Holt, was elated as she was greeted with the smiling faces of recipients and their parents during the ceremony. She reiterated MBJ’s drive to impact Jamaican youths through education – a pillar to success. 

“We are excited to be here another year celebrating this event. MBJ celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and we have always had a commitment to education and as we grew over the years, that commitment has only grown and strengthened,” she said. 

Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited speaks with twin recipients of Team Sangster Community Grants Daniella (left) and Deandra Irving after Monday’s award ceremony.

“We know people are in need and we are here to help to ensure that students are able to get the education that they require,” Hislop-Holt added. 

Delivering an inspiring keynote address was the principal of St Mary’s Preparatory School, Dr Anthony Taylor, who emphasised to the recipients the importance of obtaining a solid education. 

“I am imploring you to make the best of your education journey and at some stage in your life, relive the same kindness that would have been vested in you to someone else,” said Taylor. 

“The grant is just telling you that someone believes in you. You have to show them that you believe in yourself and that you are going to be that beacon in your life so that someone can speak of your kindness 10 years from now,” he charged.

Taylor also commended the team at MBJ Airports Limited and their many valuable sponsors for organising this initiative to positively impact the lives of these youths. 

“I want to commend the team who initiated this programme and I commend you because you are doing something good,” he said. 

Before the evening was brought to an end, members of the Jackie Norman Youth Empowerment Programme’s (JNYEP) band brought the roof down with their rendition of Bob Marley’s Redemption Song and Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers. They were also a recipient of the Inclusivity Grant during Monday’s ceremony. 

Source: OUR Today – https://our.today/180-benefit-from-proceeds-of-team-sangster-charity-run-walk/

Awakening the village

Our hearts hurt each time we hear of the tragic deaths or abuse of children.

Our hearts hurt each time we hear of the tragic deaths or abuse of children and the elderly, the vulnerable members of the Jamaican family.

There are individuals and groups looking out for them, babysitting for their neighbours, carpooling, and hosting homework centres. However, as we have been reminded repeatedly, criminals are still being harboured, left free to visit violence on our innocents.

The majority of Jamaicans, decent law-abiding people, will now need to step up and protect our children and elderly. Those who fear speaking up against criminals in their midst can speak to their pastors or guidance counsellors who can act as intermediaries with law enforcement. Parent-teacher associations and church groups can offer transportation for schoolchildren. Father Jim Bok in Negril held a fund-raiser to purchase a bus which takes disadvantaged children to and from school every day.

We must also examine why there have been such cold-hearted crimes against children; how could we have bred such evil hearts? For over 30 years WMW Jamaica (formerly Women’s Media Watch) has been warning about the extreme violence in movies and on television. We saw this becoming even more dangerous with the advent of violent video games absorbing our children, desensitising them to the harm unfolding on their screens.

We saw the rise in the number of ‘barrel children’, left behind by parents seeking better jobs abroad to support their families. They may have received monetary support, but in some instances lacked the parental guidance to be disciplined and responsible.

Children need to be nurtured. Throwing an iPad to them while you play on yours will result in antisocial behaviour. Conversing with children, worshipping with them, reading to them, taking them out of the house for recreational activities will make a world of difference to their socialisation. We cannot have a “kinder, gentler nation”, as was envisioned by the elder former US President Bush, if our children do not have that level of care.

Those of us who were blessed to have caring parents and guardians will have to take mentorship seriously. Children who may not have guidance at home will benefit from a structured mentorship programme: weekly phone calls, monthly meetings, outings from time to time. This is how children will feel that they matter, that you have their backs, build their self-esteem and confidence. It is not by coincidence that one of our gangs call themselves the Fatherless Crew.

We welcome the news from Colette Roberts Risden, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security that salaries for social workers have more than doubled and there are 50 new vacancies to be filled. She was responding to a statement from Member of Parliament Mikael Phillips, chair of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), calling for more social workers for the administration of the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH).

The anger and dysfunction in our country are paraded every day on social media. Our politicians and the security forces cannot address this on their own. It is the responsibility of every decent adult to join with the voluntary bodies at school, church, or in the community to help even one suffering child.

Increasingly, the elderly have become victims of brutal crimes.

The call for overseas workers

Richard Pandohie’s recent contribution to the recruitment of overseas employees in a media interview generated more light and less heat in the current debate on the subject.

The Seprod Group CEO said that for his company such an action would be for a limited period so that his workers could be apprenticed to such an individual and be trained to take over that position

Pandohie also noted that there is a punctuality and productivity issue, primarily with male workers. He said a great deal of productive time is taken up with mediation as many were not able to settle their differences and conflicts escalate. President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) Sydney Thwaites called for the training of young people in the soft skills needed for them to be cooperative team players.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck believes that our tourism workers should be better paid. He recalled a conversation with a worker in the industry who said that his wage could not cover the cost of commuting so he left the job.

With so much dissonance, we believe the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) could assist with data on wages in the various industries and the reasons many jobs advertised are not being taken up.

AFJ celebrates 40 years

This year’s gala held by the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) has raised nearly US$1 million, all of which will go to grantees in Jamaica who are involved in transformative programmes. It is no wonder they gained so much support, as the honorees were stars of business and philanthropy: Danny Wegman, Paula Kerr-Jarrett Wegman, Sheresse Clarke Soars, and Janice Hart.

We remember when former US ambassadors Sue and Charles Cobb, Pamela Bridgewater, Brenda Johnson, Glen Holden, and J Gary Cooper joined together to continue their support of the Jamaican people. Along their 40-year journey they were joined by AFJ board directors Wendy Hart, James Cada, Monica Ladd, Chris Ohrstrom, Paula Campbell Roberts, Barron Channer, Glenn Creamer, Pat Falkenberg, Sarah Hsia, Kathleen Newman, Radford W Klotz, and Caron Chung. Congratulations to AFJ on its milestone anniversary. It has brought hope to many lives and joy with its fantastic fund-raisers.

Applications for funding can be sent via the AFJ website, theafj.org.

Farewell, Sister Theresa Lowe-Ching

Sister Theresa Lowe-Ching

The Sisters of Mercy of Jamaica are mourning the passing of one of their most brilliant nuns, theologian Sister Theresa Lowe Ching, PhD, formerly Sister Mary Donna, who taught us Latin at Convent of Mercy Academy “Alpha”.

Sister Terry, as we fondly called her, was a beloved lecturer at St Michael’s College & Seminary and The University of the West Indies. She was instrumental in the formation of her fellow sisters as well as the associates of the Sisters of Mercy.

Sister was a visionary and a keen planner, who took on the amazing journey of the creation of the Alpha Mercy Museum in collaboration with Mercy Jamaica administrator Sister Susan Frazer. She requested a special wall on which all the Sisters of Mercy who had served in Jamaica would be memorialised. It was a joy that she was present at the unveiling last December.

Our associates of the Sisters of Mercy leader Marcia Thwaites shared, “I recall how she abhorred ‘clericalism’, a topic that the recent church synod addressed. She felt that women had a lot to contribute and felt it was unwise for the Church to operate ‘with one hand tied behind its back’.”

Mercy associate Sheryl Reid wrote, “Sister Terry was indeed a gentle giant of a theologian. She pioneered registering a master’s degree programme in Catholic theology. It got off the ground but was discontinued a few years later when she retired. I will miss her good counsel.”

Deepest sympathy to Sister Terry’s family and the Mercy community. May she rest in eternal peace.

Source: The Jamaica Observer https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/awakening-the-village/

MBJ Airports Ltd 5K/10K Charity Run/Walk raises $11-m for academic grants

Sangster International Airport (IATA: MBJ, ICAO: MKJS) is an international airport located 3 mi (4.8 km) east of Montego Bay, Jamaica. The airport is capable of handling nine million passengers per year. It serves as the most popular airport for tourists visiting the north coast of Jamaica. The airport is named after former Jamaican Prime Minister Sir Donald Sangster.

ST JAMES, Jamaica – MBJ Airports Limited, operators of Sangster International Airport (SIA), has hailed their third staging of the annual MBJ Team Sangster Charity Run/Walk, held on September 11, at Sangster International Airport, as a resounding success.

The event raised an impressive $11 million for academic grants, a significant increase from the $4.5m raised in 2022.

This achievement underscores MBJ’s commitment to supporting the education of the most vulnerable students in their community, MBJ Airports Limited said.

Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, expressed immense joy at the substantial funds raised during the charity run/walk, as he emphasised the event’s significance.

“We are very pleased to witness the incredible success of the charity run/walk, which not only brought our community together but also raised an impressive amount for academic grants. This event showcases our commitment to supporting education and making a meaningful impact on the lives of students in the community in which we exist,” he commented.

Munroe further added that the funds generated from the charity run/walk extend beyond mere monetary contributions, pointing ou that “they symbolise a shared dedication to advancing education and enriching the local community.”

“With this substantial sum raised from this event, MBJ Airports Limited is well-positioned to effect substantial changes in the lives of budding scholars. This financial support opens doors for them, enabling them to chase their academic pursuits and, in turn, foster a brighter future for the entire community,” he added.

Audley Deidrick, CEO and president of Airports Authority of Jamaica, also expressed his appreciation for the remarkable outpouring of support for the event and the funds raised through the charity run/walk while reflecting on the impact the contributions will make in the lives of deserving individuals within the community.

“Participating in this year’s charity run was an incredible experience. Knowing that our efforts directly contribute to academic grants makes it even more rewarding,” Deidrick said.

Manager of Commercial Development & Marketing at MBJ Airports Limited, Sharon Hislop-Holt emphasised the event’s role in supporting education and the overwhelming support it received.

“I am elated with the overwhelming support we’ve received this year. This event has gained recognition for being an excellent event that the airport community and corporate Jamaica look forward to. All the funds raised will be awarded to students for education, a cause we know is greatly needed,” Hislop-Holt stated.

The success of this event is attributed to the generous contributions of sponsors, donors, and over 2,000 participants. All proceeds from the event will go directly towards enabling students to access much-needed academic grants at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The grants will be geared towards airport employees, their children and dependents, individuals from the surrounding communities, as well as community-based organisations targeting the growth and development of persons with special needs.

In 2022, over 50 students benefited directly from the proceeds of the event and with more than double the funds raised this year, MBJ Airports Limited intends to make an even more significant impact on the lives of more students.

To apply for these grants, students are encouraged to submit their applications by the extended deadline of October 20, 2023.

Source: Jamaica Observer – https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latest-news/mbj-airports-ltd-5k-10k-charity-run-walk-raises-11-m-for-academic-grants/

The poor’s persistent quake

Jamaica was recently hit by a magnitude-5.6 earthquake.

As we continued to feel phantom quakes after last week’s earthquake, that anxiety reminded me of stories from dwellers in our inner-city communities. “Miss Chin,” said one lady, “is under the bed mi hide with mi grandson last night. You should hear the shot them. I still trembling.” Said another, “I was at the bus stop and I heard the shots coming nearer. I had to run and hide around the corner. All now mi heart still beating fast.” These are hard-working middle-aged women who work, worship, and nurture their families. Surely they deserve better than this.

So, yes, we may have had some fearful days and nights last week, but members of our Jamaican family have been living that fear for decades — day in, day out. They cannot cross certain streets as that may take them into enemy territory. When violence happens close to them, they have to “see and blind, hear and deaf” so they are not branded as informers and attacked.

There must be some super-sized hypocrites in this country for barefooted boys to have access to dangerous weapons and for the number of gangs in this tiny rock to exceed 250. We are hearing talk of the ‘El Salvador model’ and the retraining of our police. It is the police who must be mentoring our youth in the Police Youth Club, the largest in Jamaica. How about our politicians launching mentorship programmes in their constituencies and bringing the parish councillors on board. HEART/NSTA Trust offers free training, but how many youth are being guided in choosing a vocation, signing up for the classes, and sticking with the training to get certified?

Project STAR, brainchild of Keith Duncan and his Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) colleagues, has been seeing more young people trained and getting employment. The Ministry of Education has launched parenting programmes, urgently needed as increasingly schoolchildren are displaying violent behaviour. Church groups have been expressing their fears of antisocial behaviour in schools and our unattached youth are easy prey for gang leaders.

Crime continues to sap our economy. Businesses must spend heavily on security and scheduled surgeries must make way for gunshot victims. The crazy driving by taxis may be caused by their desperate effort to make enough money to pay themselves as well as the extortionists. There can be no finger-pointing by one political party at the other, they are both accountable for this distressing situation.

Some of us can afford the guards, gates, dogs, electronics to keep us secure. Our poor can afford none of this. Please, let this criminal quake stop shaking up their lives.

Calls for preparedness

We are giving thanks that there were no injuries and minimal damage after the magnitude-5.6 earthquake which was heavier in our eastern parishes. In contrast, the same strength earthquake in Nepal over the past weekend has caused some 150 deaths and widespread destruction. Our building codes may have served us well, but the 2010 earthquake which took 300,000 Haitian lives is a reminder that both our countries are located on the Enriquillo–Plantain Garden fault zone (EPGFZ or EPGZ). According to Wikipedia, this is “a system of active coaxial left lateral-moving strike slip faults which runs along the southern side of the island of Hispaniola, where Haiti and the Dominican Republic are located. The EPGFZ is named for Lake Enriquillo in the Dominican Republic where the fault zone emerges and extends across the southern portion of Hispaniola through the Caribbean to the region of the Plantain Garden River in Jamaica.”

This is the system which caused the submersion of the larger part of Port Royal in 1692, taking a total of 5,000 lives and the destruction of 80 per cent of the buildings in Kingston in 1907, causing nearly 1,000 deaths.

“The ramifications of such sudden disruptions are widespread, significantly impacting the private sector through the cessation of business operations, damage to assets, and inventory losses,” noted the PSOJ in a statement. “The resulting strain extends to the insurance sector, evident in an upsurge of claims and the inevitable increase in insurance premiums. Additionally, the landscape of development financing is altered, introducing a realm of uncertainty for investors.”

It continued, “The IDB Disaster Risk Profile for Jamaica published in 2020 estimated that buildings and infrastructure in the country are vulnerable to seismic activity, with a total exposed value of US$44.5 billion. This means that in the event of an apocalyptic 1000-year event, the probable maximum loss is US$3.7 billion, representing 8.2 per cent of the total exposure.”

The organisation called for “heightened rigour in enforcing building codes, conducting building inspections, and executing earthquake drills. This becomes even more pertinent as we witness a transformation in our development landscape, characterised by increasing building heights and densities.”

It is said that “to be forewarned is to be forearmed”. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has useful tips on its website, including the preparation of a “go-bag” for emergencies. Please get this done, but keep it compact as it should fit on your lap to save space in case of an emergency extraction.

That heavy shake should focus us wonderfully on taking precautions for personal and national safety.

JA Sign Language Bible

Special guest Brandon Gaskin (left) prays for the JSL Bible Translation team (from second left) Sheree Henry, Zandrea Pitterson, Damion Stewart, Tashi Widmer, Clifton Blackellar, Blake Widmer, and Francine Richards.

The Jamaican deaf community gathered at the Jamaica Conference Centre in downtown Kingston recently to celebrate the launch of the Jamaican Sign Language (JSL) Bible Translation, spearheaded by Tashi and Blake Widmer.

Community members from across the island came together to learn about and celebrate another beginning in God’s ongoing work among the deaf of Jamaica.

Participation came from local deaf schools and churches — from Wycliffe Caribbean and even the global sign language translation team from SIL, a global, faith-based nonprofit that works with local communities around the world to develop language solutions. The endeavour was launched with the theme ‘God’s word made alive in JSL’.

Renca Dunn, a veteran Bible translator for the American Sign Language (ASL) Bible, reminded the audience that Bible translation is not easy, yet God provides what we ask for. Matt Knapp of HarvestCall and Zandrea Pitterson, one of the translators, exhorted the audience to focus on knowing God and making Him known. There were songs, dramatic presentations, and Bible stories shared, young and old coming together as one, including Jamaican Country Sign.

International guest speaker from Deaf Millennial Project, the founder, Brandon Gaskin inspired the audience and encouraged all to think and dream about what God could and would do in and through this ministry. Special communal prayer was offered on the JSLBT staff and engaged the whole audience in coming together and praying that God would sustain and add the increase as they begin training and research.

With the support of Krystal Clear Productions, the launch was also streamed on Zoom to the Diaspora. Danya’s Coffee Barrel provided delicious fare. With volunteers happy to serve, it all came together as a well-executed, encouraging, and uplifting event, glorifying God and the beginning of something fruitful and beautiful — God’s word brought to life in Jamaican Sign Language.

Source: The Jamaica Observer; https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/the-poors-persistent-quake/