PAHO and MOHW conclude after-action review workshop to boost hurricane preparedness

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), recently concluded a two-day After-Action Review (AAR) workshop held from March 24–25. The workshop aimed to strengthen Jamaica’s preparedness and response systems following the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

After-Action Reviews are a standard tool in emergency management, used to assess response efforts, capture lessons learned, and improve coordination, planning, and operational systems for future events. Importantly, aligning the AAR process with the International Health Regulations (IHR) ensures that the evaluation of public health emergencies meets globally recognised standards, strengthening Jamaica’s ability to detect, assess, report, and respond to health threats in a timely and effective manner.

USCIS strengthens screening and vetting of immigration applicants

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a series of strengthened screening and vetting measures aimed at enhancing national security and public safety, particularly for applicants from high-risk countries.

In a statement released Tuesday (March), USCIS said its review of pending workloads and benefit applications revealed that prior screening measures were “wholly inadequate.” According to the agency, many applicants for naturalisation and lawful permanent residence were not sufficiently vetted, creating risks to national security and public safety while undermining the integrity of the immigration system.

Jamaica gets major airlift boost as Virgin Atlantic expands from Heathrow

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has welcomed Virgin Atlantic’s significant increase to its Summer 2026 flight schedule between London Heathrow Airport and Montego Bay, reinforcing Jamaica’s strong demand and sustained…

Sashana-Lee Edwards elected president of Generation 2000 (G2K) 

Reading Time: 2 minutesGeneration 2000 (G2K) has announced the election of Sashana-Lee Edwards as its new President, marking a defining and historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to lead the organisation since…

Bank of Jamaica maintains policy rate at 5.50 per cent amid increased uncertainty

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ), during its meetings on 27 and 30 March 2026, noted that while inflation remained below the lower limit of…

Americans now paying $4.00 a gallon for gas as Iran war rages on 

Reading Time: 3 minutesAs the war against Iran spreads across the Middle East and oil prices go above US$100 a barrel, Americans are seeing the price at the pump climb. Last month Americans…