for significant role in nation-building DIASPORA HAILED

During Jamaica’s 61st Independence celebration, Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, acknowledged the role Jamaicans living abroad have played in the growth and development of their home country.

Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey P Marks delivered the remarks on Holness’ behalf at a thanksgiving service in Takoma Park, Maryland

This service was part of a series of events planned by the Jamaican Embassy in Washington to commemorate both Emancipation and Independence days

Holness emphasized the importance of strengthening the relationship with the diaspora in enhancing Jamaica’s progress and future prosperity

The Prime Minister further praised the Jamaican Embassy in the US for its relentless efforts in advocating for and representing the diaspora

Holness mentioned the Jamaican government’s focus on infrastructure development Noteworthy undertakings spanned the entire country, connecting communities, boosting the economy, and enhancing access and convenience

Notable projects include the North-South Highway, which has cut travel times and promoted commerce, and the Montego Bay Perimeter Road designed to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance the connectivity in the tourism capital

Holness highlighted the government’s emphasis on housing as well, understanding that affordable and secure housing is not just a basic right but also an important aspect of societal stability and national prosperity

Economically, Holness shared that Jamaica is on a trajectory of fiscal discipline, which has led to a stable Jamaican dollar and a lower debt-to-GDP ratio

WHAT’S INSI

Meet the architect behind Jamaica’s progress in the

The Government of Jamaica recognizes the Diaspora as crucial partners and drivers of Jamaica’s economic development. Jamaicans overseas represent a wealth of human, social and nancial capital and are key actors and inuencers bringing tremendous value to Jamaica. We are actively pursuing opportunities to channel this value into mutually benecial policy initiatives.

– PM Andrew Holness

African, Caribbean bodies call for slavery reparations

Various African and Caribbean bodies came together at an unprecedented event last month in Bridgetown, Barbados. Their unified demand focused on compensation for slavery and the scars it has left on present-day society

He un g p p and bold policies have been implemented, attracting investments, encouraging entrepreneurship, and generating job opportunities

Holness praised Jamaica’s significant strides over 61 years as an independent country As the nation embarks on its future journey, he called on Jamaicans to uphold their inherent values of resilience, unity, and love

The event marked the debut of the Jamaica Diaspora DMV Awards, honoring notable Jamaican-born figures, retired Maryland y of Caribbean Studies Founder and President, Dr Claire

A Nelson

The thanksgiving service also featured a sermon by Senior Pastor Rev Astor Carlyle, who urged Jamaicans abroad to reflect on their personal role in contributing to their homeland’s improvement

Years

Among those rallying for reparations for “historical crimes” were the University of the West Indies (UWI), the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU), the Government of Barbados, the Open Society Foundations, a grant-making network, and the Caribbean Pan African Network

The Bridgetown assembly was alive with strategic discussions and plenaries This marked the launch of an “intercontinental campaign,” UWI announced, labeling it a “ground-breaking” event continues on B1 – Reparations