news and current affairs.
Zimbabwe's Moyo backs Zimsec exam integrity
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has firmly supported its examination body, Zimsec, in dismissing media claims of irregularities during this year's Ordinary and Advanced Level tests. Minister Torerayi Moyo rejected allegations of wrongly labeled papers, shortages, or unsealed packages as baseless, asserting the exam system's security has been uncompromised for two consecutive years. He stated that no investigation was necessary, as the security protocols had proven effective. Zimsec previously issued a statement confirming that the examinations were proceeding smoothly. The council emphasized its adherence to strict, multi-layered security measures throughout the entire process, from paper setting to distribution. It...
Zimbabwe's Kwidini sets 75 pct local nurse rule
Zimbabwe's health ministry has introduced a new quota requiring that a minimum of 75 percent of nursing trainees at any school originate from its local district or province. Deputy Minister of Health Sleiman Kwidini explained to Parliament that this policy aims to enhance local representation and eliminate corruption, following reports of applicants paying large sums to secure a placement. The directive builds on a previous decentralization of the recruitment process. The change addresses concerns raised by legislators like Prosper Mutseyami, who noted that some regions saw entire intakes without any local candidates. Competition for nursing positions is exceptionally high, with over 100,000 applicants annually for only about 1,200...
Buganda, UNICEF team up on child welfare
The Kingdom of Buganda has entered a strategic partnership with UNICEF to advance the rights and welfare of over 4.2 million children. The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, will leverage the Kingdom’s deep community networks alongside UNICEF’s technical expertise. The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, stated that a community’s future is determined by how it cares for its children, affirming their absolute responsibility in this area. The partnership will focus on four key areas: improving child survival through immunization and health messaging, eliminating barriers to education, protecting children from violence and marriage, and promoting child participation. A Joint Steering Committee will be...
Uganda warns of rising child vision problems
The Ugandan Ministry of Health has raised concerns over a high prevalence of eye conditions among children, which is negatively impacting education and development. Official data indicate that visual impairments affect a significant portion of the population, with refractive errors being the most common issue for younger people. To address this, the ministry is strengthening community-based screening through Village Health Teams and has introduced vision screening in schools using tools like "reading corridors." Patients can obtain subsidized spectacles for a fraction of the market cost through a national workshop. The international organization Light for the World is supporting these efforts, helping to train teachers to identify...
Bartlett says Jamaica tourism is set for May 2026
Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has announced a recovery plan aiming for full restoration of the sector by May 2026, following Hurricane Melissa. He reported that two-thirds of major tourist destinations are already operational, with expectations for over 70 percent of hotel rooms and attractions to be available soon. The western part of the island, including Montego Bay, sustained the most significant damage. Minister Bartlett emphasized the economic importance of tourism, which accounts for a substantial portion of the nation's GDP and employment. He encouraged travelers to support the island's recovery by visiting, stating that the best way to help is to return. A multi-agency task force is coordinating the rebuilding...
Antigua, Guyana agree on cheaper food imports
The government of Antigua and Barbuda has established a new food import initiative with Guyana, intended to lower the cost of living. Officials stated the partnership aims to provide cheaper fruits, vegetables, and other produce to local consumers. This agreement, developed following discussions between Prime Minister Gaston Browne and President Irfaan Ali, is part of a broader strategy to diversify food suppliers within the Caribbean Community. The Cabinet has also reduced the Common External Tariff to zero on essential food items, a measure designed to cushion the impact of rising global prices. Officials indicated that the first shipments from this new arrangement could arrive in early 2026. Concurrently, the government announced...
Liat Air maps new routes to Panama and Belize
Antigua-based Liat Air is pursuing an international expansion with new flights planned for Panama, Belize, and Colombia. Chief Executive Officer Hafsah Abdulsalam stated that these routes are part of a strategy to enhance Caribbean connectivity. She explained that the airline is currently prioritizing the stabilization of its regional network before undertaking longer-haul services. The carrier is also working on establishing interline agreements, including a potential partnership with Spartan Air Peace to facilitate passenger connections. Abdulsalam noted that a narrow-body aircraft is scheduled to join the fleet, though its delivery faces delays due to a global shortage of engines for the E2195 model. The airline aims to operate a...
Romeich Major hailed by Holness for relief work
The Jamaican government has publicly recognized entertainment figure Romeich Major for his leadership in hurricane relief efforts. Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Minister Olivia Grange both commended his work, with Holness noting the vital role played by the entire entertainment sector in national recovery. Minister Grange announced a partnership with Romeich Major for the upcoming I Love Jamaica Telethon, a fundraising event scheduled for Sunday. She expressed gratitude for his team's involvement in the initiative, which aims to raise money for rebuilding after the hurricane. The Prime Minister specifically praised Romeich Major's compassion and outstanding contribution to supporting the island's recovery.
Buju Banton, Mr Vegas clash over relief claims
In a recent online discussion about allegedly stolen hurricane relief supplies, musician Buju Banton accused fellow artist Mr. Vegas of misleading the public with his arguments. Banton, who joined a livestream where Mr. Vegas was questioning reports of missing Starlink units and stoves, strongly disputed the claims. He asserted that Mr. Vegas, who used the username Politics Religion, was not present during the relief efforts and lacked the facts. Banton emphasized that the hurricane recovery was a national crisis, not a matter for partisan politics. He defended the integrity of the relief initiative and questioned why he would publicly share an image of an empty barrel if the donations were not genuine. After expressing his views...
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