Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, says that 95 per cent of the island's fire stations are now equipped with generators. “We acquired four more in the last financial year at a cost of $33 million, and two more will be installed this year,” the Minister said in his contribution to the 2026/27 Sectoral Debate in...

Scores of female students at Paul Bogle High School in St. Thomas have been treated to an engaging session on menstrual health and oral hygiene, thanks to a new initiative of the Social Development Commission (SDC), St. Thomas branch. Dubbed ‘It’s a Girl’s Thing’, the initiative was launched at the school on May 29 and was designed to alleviate some...

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness (left) and Minister of Local Government and Community Development, the Hon. Desmond McKenzie (centre) view a proposal with city engineer for the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), Zacia Chevannes during a tour of West Kingston on May 29. The Government of Jamaica in partnership with the KSAMC are working on...

Jamaica’s disaster risk management system remains strong, coordinated and response capable, says Director General, Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Commander Alvin Gayle. “The country has functioning national coordination arrangements, experienced emergency response agencies, established emergency operations systems, trained personnel, active public information channels and improving restoration capacity across critical sectors. Disaster management and readiness is a whole-of-government...

Employees of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) are being commended for their unwavering dedication and resilience in maintaining sanitation services across the island, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Executive Director of the NSWMA, Audley Gordon, praised the workers for their loyalty and commitment, while addressing the Long Service Awards Ceremony for staff of NEPM Waste Management...

As the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane season approaches, Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, is urging Jamaicans to heighten their level of preparedness and take proactive steps to safeguard lives and property. “Preparedness is shared responsibility. Government has its role. But readiness begins in households, communities, farms, schools, clinics, police stations and fire stations. “It also begins in the...

As the country prepares for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says the Government is strengthening the country’s disaster risk financing framework to bolster recovery efforts and respond to the needs of citizens. Addressing the National Disaster Risk Management Council Meeting, he said that these instruments, which include catastrophe bonds, have enhanced Jamaica’s...