The HEART/NSTA Trust has intensified efforts to train and sensitise tradesmen on the critical importance of using hurricane straps to properly secure roofs. The training forms part of a national campaign dubbed ‘Strap Up Jamaica’, which is being led by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). It aims to encourage safer roofing practices and strengthen disaster preparedness...

A sum of $1.46 billion will be allocated in fiscal year 2026/27 to advance initiatives that expand market access and promote climate-resilient practices for targeted beneficiaries in the tourism and agriculture sectors. The allocation, provided under the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) II, is detailed in the 2026/27 Estimates of Expenditure, which was recently tabled in the House of Representatives...

United States (US) Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, says his Administration is interested in rebuilding and constructing a new dynamic in the Western Hemisphere, including strengthening partnership with Caribbean nations on common issues. He was addressing a meeting with CARICOM leaders on Wednesday (February 25), during the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in...

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Delroy Chuck, has encouraged adolescent mothers to see their journey, not as a catastrophe but as the beginning of greatness. Speaking at the Legal Forum for Adolescent Mothers on Wednesday, February 25 at the AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston, Minister Chuck noted that while teenage pregnancy is often a circumstance society tends to...

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Delano Seiveright, is encouraging more young people to capitalise on opportunities in the creative industries. “Jamaica has a special niche in the creative space that we have not fully maximised,” he said, noting that entertainment, music, events and related cultural businesses represent one of the country’s most natural competitive advantages locally and internationally....

Minister of Water, Environment, and Climate Change, Hon. Matthew Samuda, announced that the Jamaica Systemic Risk Assessment Tool (J-SRAT), is being utilised to evaluate climate risks within potential investment areas. The tool utilises data-driven insights to pinpoint critical infrastructure at risk, providing a roadmap for the strategic allocation of public and private investment. Minister Samuda noted that J-SRAT is being...

The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) will, in fiscal year 2026/27, continue its plans to expand the Hellshire Sewage Treatment Plant, increasing its capacity by 109 per cent to support planned developments in Hellshire, St. Catherine. The project is in the construction phase and is expected to be completed in June 2026. This is outlined in the 2026/27 Public Bodies Estimates...