Commentary
23 Feb, 2026
0
Editorial | The sweet drinks tax
Having long backed policies to combat high rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), The Gleaner supports the government’s decision to impose a special consumption tax (SCT) on pre-packaged sweetened…
23 Feb, 2026
0
Ronald Thwaites | Illiteracy SOS?
“My salary is $150,000 monthly at the Infant School. I really love the children but I can’t stay there. I have a child with special needs and rent is $70,000 for one room since the storm. “Her…
23 Feb, 2026
0
Narendra Modi | Shaping a human-centric future for AI
At a defining moment in human history, the world gathered at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. For us in India, it was a moment of immense pride and joy to welcome Heads of State, Heads of…
23 Feb, 2026
0
Shinique Walters | How aid financing can help with building back stronger
Almost four months after Hurricane Melissa, Jamaicans have begun the long process of rebuilding, even as some communities continue to grapple with the compounded devastation of storm damage and…
23 Feb, 2026
0
Rene L. Lambert | The psychological and social history of Jamaica and African Americans in America
Study a country's customs and it will tell you so much about its people and its cultural norms. Examine its history and it will tell you a lot about its past, its current state and the intended…
22 Feb, 2026
0
Editorial | New mineral developments and strategic promise
The resurgence of the geopolitical battle between the United States and China present both challenges and opportunities for Jamaica's bauxite/alumina sector. The US, in attempting to rebuild…
22 Feb, 2026
0
Garth Rattray | Thoughts about the sugary drinks tax
The Government announced the introduction of a new Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on non-alcoholic sweetened beverages. It is expected to raise $10.1 billion during the 2026-2027 fiscal year.…
22 Feb, 2026
0
Orville Taylor | Diaspora Jamaiquina
A glass of sorrel, not laced with lethal ginger as we are accustomed on the Island. This is not Ghana or Kenya, where some Jamaicans do not even recognise it, because of its local name. Hibiscus is…
22 Feb, 2026
0
Byron Blake | Whither the people of Cuba?
Cuba is the largest Caribbean island with a land mass of 42,426 square miles, and a population of 11.6 million in 2024. Life expectancy was 78.6 in 2025, with the female rate at 81 and the male at…