Photo by Janet Silvera From left: Audley Deidrick, president and CEO of the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ); Mark Hart, AAJ chairman; Transport Minister Daryl Vaz; Senator Janice Allen, opposition spokesperson on tourism; National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang; Richard Vernon, deputy mayor of Montego Bay; David Pratt, principal, PRT Group Inc; Shane Munroe, CEO – MBJ Airports Limited; and Odette Dyer, Jamaica Tourist Board regional director, break ground for the new immigration and security halls at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.
WESTERN BUREAU:
Ground has officially been broken for the expansion of a new immigration hall at Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, St James, valued at US$18 million (J$2.88 billion).
The project is part of the final phase of the overall US$300 million expansion efforts undertaken this year. The previous stages involved lengthening the runway, realigning the entrance and exit for departing and arriving passengers, and the creation of a new shopping concourse.
National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang underscored the urgency of this expansion during the 20th anniversary celebration of MBJ in Montego Bay.
The existing facilities face challenges coping with the influx of visitors and workers, particularly during peak periods. With some 30 flights arriving daily between noon and 3 p.m., the immigration hall’s capacity is stretched, processing 5,000 to 6,000 people within a limited space.
Chang emphasised the imperative of ensuring a seamless experience for visitors to Jamaica, urging contractors to prioritise efficiency.
Acknowledging travellers’ frustrations during peak hours, he explained the cyclic nature of tourism, where numerous flights converge during specific time frames.
The expansion aims not only to alleviate congestion, but also to enhance processing speed with the installation of six-seater gates and electronic gates.
Chang stressed that creating a more spacious arrival area is crucial for efficient crowd management.
Since MBJ assumed management of Sangster, the Government has invested $500 million to bring the airport up to international standards. The immigration and outgoing security expansion represent the concluding phase, with Chang expressing gratitude to immigration and customs officers and the MBJ team. He affirmed the commitment to creating a better working environment for them.
New master plan
Looking ahead, plans include increasing the number of desks, seater gates, and eGates for Jamaican nationals returning home. Anticipating the growth in tourism and airport traffic, a new master plan is in development, extending Sangster’s capabilities beyond 2033, as shared by Audley Deidrick, CEO and president of the Airports Authority of Jamaica.
Deidrick emphasised the successful partnership between MBJ and the Government, noting improvements in service levels and operational efficiencies recognised by the Airports Council International. Sangster International Airport currently serves more than 45 direct destinations globally, playing a pivotal role as a tourism hub.
Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, reflected on the airport’s history, citing milestones such as the installation of boarding bridges, expansion of the terminal, and ongoing construction of retail areas. The retail programme, comprising food and beverage locations and duty-free shops, continues to evolve, enhancing the overall passenger experience at SIA.
Shane Munroe (left), CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, presents a cheque for J$30 million to Lennox Wallace, chairman, board of directors, Flanker Primary and Junior High School, during MBJ Airports’ 20th anniversary celebration held recently. Others from left, are: Collette Barnes, school principal; and Sharon Hislop-Holt, commercial manager at MBJ Airports Limited.
In commemorating its 20th anniversary of operating the Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, MBJ Airports Limited (MBJ) launched its foundation by donating J$41 million to a nearby school as well as students and charity organisations from surrounding communities.
At an open-air celebration of its anniversary on Thursday, December 14, MBJ announced its adoption of the Flanker Primary and Infant School and presented a cheque for J$30 million to expand its early childhood department. MBJ also presented another J$11 million to over 180 students and three community organisations, all from the proceeds of its recent 10K and 5K run/walk.
Chief Executive Officer of MBJ Airports Limited, Shane Munroe, underscored the company’s commitment to philanthropic initiatives that support the development of early childhood and primary institutions in Montego Bay. Through its annual scholarships awarded to children from primary up to tertiary institutions. the airport operator has been demonstrating its commitment to the community’s well-being and education.
He described the 20th anniversary celebration as a momentous occasion and “a testament to the vision, determination, and hard work that have defined our journey over the past two decades. … It is your commitment and professionalism that have earned Sangster International Airport numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious title of the Best Airport in the Caribbean for 15 consecutive years from the World Travel Awards,” he assured the employees.
He said the period had been marked by remarkable growth and success for SIA as it played its role as the leading international gateway to Jamaica.
“Our commitment to connecting the island to the world, driving economic growth, and fostering tourism has been unwavering from the very beginning,” said Munroe, with Sangster International Airport now serving more than 45 direct destinations worldwide and playing a critical role as a hub for tourism travel.
“Our focus remains on expanding our network of destinations, enhancing passenger experiences, and promoting sustainable practices throughout our operations. We are not just an airport; we are a symbol of Jamaican pride, a vital gateway connecting Jamaica to the world,” he added.
Outlining MBJ’s history, Munroe identified iconic milestones and memorable achievements, leading up to the current year in which the company continues to excel.
In addition to US$309 million already pumped into the airport to upgrade infrastructure and to expand service areas,Munroe announced that “next year we have committed to over US$40 million in investments”. He said the airport is for the benefit of the people of Jamaica, “and unlike most companies we don’t just pay taxes, we also pay concession fees with US$349 million in concession fees and taxes directly going towards the Jamaican economy”.
MBJ crafted a new vision and mission in 2020 that commits to being “the steward of a key strategic infrastructure for Jamaica …to ensure a safe, passenger-centric, sustainable, efficient, and profitable airport operation” and “to be a leading tourist destination airport, exceeding the expectations of our passengers while being uniquely Jamaican”.
SIA has been voted the leading international airport in the Caribbean for 15 years. It is also one of a handful of Jamaican companies with multiple ISO certifications, having received ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) Certification, and ISO 270001 Information Security Management System (ISMS)Certification.
In addition to improving its infrastructure, a customer experience (CX) programme has been launched for all stakeholders to improve the customer experience delivered by employees at the airport.
“Our aim is to deliver exceptional hospitality-class service to our passengers and guests and ensure their experience is stress-free, enjoyable, memorable, and seamless,” said Munroe.
Beyond that, he said MBJ recognised the importance of sustainability and its responsibility to the community. Its eco-friendly initiatives included a 3MW solar energy project, showcasing its dedication to reducing its carbon footprint.
“A new project is now underway to increase our solar PV system to 6MW, becoming one of the largest private solar PV installations in Jamaica and the region,” he announced.
Munroe paid tribute to the contribution of MBJ’s dedicated employees, SIA staff, partners and stakeholders for their respective contributions to the airport’s growth over the last two decades, with July 2023 being the first time that the airport had exceeded 500,000 passengers in one month and was looking forward to another memorable milestone of five million passengers before month-end.
Tracey Ann Davis (left), assistant administrator at Mustard Seed Communities’ Mary’s Child, gets down to business, joining Nadine Reid-Berry, IGT administrative assistant, in a painting session during the festive Christmas Treat held on December 7.
The computer lab at the Mustard Seed Communities Mary’s Child home received a printer and system upgrades from International Game Technology (IGT) on December 9, 2023.
The upgrades will enhance the educational resources available to the residents. IGT transformed the computer lab into a festive sanctuary adorned with freshly painted walls that radiated the colours of the Yuletide season. The initiative is part of IGT’s global after-school advantage programme.
The spirit of Christmas was evident at the vent with an array of joyous activities. IGT led the group in singing timeless Christmas carols while attendees ate cake and drank festive sorrel. IGT also presented gifts for the residents, each wrapped with care and goodwill, which created cherished moments for these remarkable young ladies.
Mustard Seed Communities Mary’s Child, an IGT after-school advantage recipient since 2016, serves as a haven for pregnant teenagers and teen mothers without stable housing, offering holistic development and spiritual sanctuary. It currently provides care for 13 young girls and 12 babies.
Debbie Green, IGT Jamaica general manager, emphasised the significance of the company’s donations in fostering literacy and providing an opportunity to these young ladies who would not have otherwise had access.
“The world has become more technology-centric, with the introduction of AI (artificial intelligence) in several industries. There is an unprecedented increase in women pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers, and the call for more women in STEM careers is ongoing. This is an opportunity to make your mark and explore the possibilities of STEM education and career,” said Green.
Nadia Williams, administrator at Mustard Seed Communities Mary’s Child, shared that the upgrade would significantly improve access and efficiency, enhancing opportunities for research, online classes, job training, resume preparation, and job searches for the residents.
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.
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
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.
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)
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.
We were delighted to present Dr Margaret Dingle Spence with her CCRP Living Legacy Award at our CCRP Board Meeting on Tuesday. Dr Spence was abroad when we had our event last month. Fr left Directors Warren McDonald, Dr Spence, Pat Reid-Waugh & Vilma Mc Donald.
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.
Jamaica Highlights 