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23 September 2024
Message from Jamaica's UN Country Chief Dennis Zulu on the Summit of the Future
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23 September 2024
Jamaica’s youth and leaders share their vision for Jamaica’s future generations
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23 September 2024
The UN's Dennis Zulu on Amplifying Youth Voices on the Declaration on Future Generations
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Jamaica
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity.
Kindly note that the data visualizations show an aggregate of the Caribbean. To view the disaggregated data per country, please click on the name of the country or territory you wish to explore.
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30 September 2024
Shavaughn Scott on Innovative & Technology-Driven Education in Jamaica
📚 Shavaughn believes that Jamaica’s education system must continuously evolve to meet the needs of our youth and the future. Let’s join him in advocating for an inclusive, future-ready education system that equips every young Jamaican with the skills needed to thrive in the world of tomorrow." 🖥️📖 #OurCommonFuture #SummitoftheFuture #UNGA #FutureReady #InclusiveEducation #JamaicanYouth 🇯🇲 🇺🇳
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Press Release
13 September 2024
United Nations World Food Programme Launches JMD$ 220 million Cash Assistance Programme To Support Jamaicans Recovery From Hurricane Beryl
The Beryl Cash Assistance Programme targets 11,500 people whose homes were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Beryl in early July. The programme will provide USD$ 1.4 million (JMD$ 220 million) in relief and support to families in their recovery, ensuring access to food, water and other essential needs. Families with children, elderly people and persons with disabilities will be prioritized. “WFP is committed to its partnership with the Government of Jamaica to support people impacted by Hurricane Beryl. We are happy to know that this cash assistance will help families to meet their most essential needs and rebuild their lives,” said Brian Bogart, Country Director of the WFP Caribbean Multi-Country Office. Beryl, the first hurricane of the 2024 season and the strongest July hurricane on record, made landfall in Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, leaving widespread devastation in its path, before moving westwards across the Caribbean and hitting Jamaica. Participants will receive their cash assistance through money transfer services over two months. The amount they receive will depend on the household size. For instance, one to two persons will receive US$120 (JMD $20,000) per month; three to five persons will receive US$240 (JMD $36,000) per month, and six to more persons will receive US$340 (JMD $50,000) per month. “I am deeply grateful for the swift and generous support from the World Food Programme in providing cash transfers to Jamaicans affected by Hurricane Beryl. This timely assistance will be instrumental in helping our communities recover and rebuild,” said Minister Pearnel Charles Jr., Minister of Labour and Social Security. “Partnerships like these are essential in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need during times of crisis. Through the Rebuild Jamaica initiative, the strong collaboration between the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and WFP is a testament to our shared commitment to the well-being of our people.”
In the wake of Beryl’s impact on Jamaica, WFP provided emergency generators to the Government to address widespread power outages, deployed the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster or ETC –a global network of organizations that provide emergency communications services—to re-establish internet connectivity in the worst affected areas, and provided emergency logistics. The Beryl Cash Assistance Programme is made possible through the generous support of the Government of Canada, the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF), UK Aid from the UK Government and USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA). In addition, as part of the Canada-CARICOM Climate Adaptation Fund, Jamaica has increased its Excess Rainfall and Tropical Cyclone insurance policies with the Catastrophic Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF SPC). WFP is helping the government to implement additional cash transfer programmes for people using a portion of the payouts from those policies. # # # The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media OR @wfp_caribbean For more information please contact (email address: carla.alleyne@wfp.org): Carla Alleyne, WFP/Bridgetown, Mob. +12468366111 Bryanna Hadaway, WFP/Bridgetown, Mob. +12468366116 Maria Gallar, WFP/Panama, Mob. + 507 6671-5355
In the wake of Beryl’s impact on Jamaica, WFP provided emergency generators to the Government to address widespread power outages, deployed the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster or ETC –a global network of organizations that provide emergency communications services—to re-establish internet connectivity in the worst affected areas, and provided emergency logistics. The Beryl Cash Assistance Programme is made possible through the generous support of the Government of Canada, the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF), UK Aid from the UK Government and USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA). In addition, as part of the Canada-CARICOM Climate Adaptation Fund, Jamaica has increased its Excess Rainfall and Tropical Cyclone insurance policies with the Catastrophic Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF SPC). WFP is helping the government to implement additional cash transfer programmes for people using a portion of the payouts from those policies. # # # The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media OR @wfp_caribbean For more information please contact (email address: carla.alleyne@wfp.org): Carla Alleyne, WFP/Bridgetown, Mob. +12468366111 Bryanna Hadaway, WFP/Bridgetown, Mob. +12468366116 Maria Gallar, WFP/Panama, Mob. + 507 6671-5355
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06 June 2023
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres Lands in Jamaica for Historic Visit and Bilateral Talks
The UN Chief consulted with Prime Minister Holness on the impact of the climate crisis in the Caribbean and upcoming High-Level discussions on the mid-term review of the global framework for disaster risk reduction. They also discussed the situation in Haiti as well as ways of involving the international community, including Jamaica’s leadership, in efforts to reform the global financial architecture. The Secretary-General was also exposed to elements of Jamaican history, culture and academia.
Secretary General Guterres was warmly received in Jamaica on Sunday, 14 May 2023 by a delegation including the UN Resident Coordinator a.i. Vincent Sweeney – Head, UNEP Sub Regional Office of the Caribbean.
On Sunday, Guterres visited Seville Great House and Heritage Park, in Saint Ann. This former plantation is now a heritage site reflecting centuries of history in Jamaica. On Sunday evening, the Secretary-General also attended a dinner organized in Kingston by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
“I was deeply impressed by stories of courage & determination of slaves who fought for freedom. This is a reminder of the urgency to fight racism & inequalities everywhere,” Guterres said.
On 15 May, the Secretary-General met the United Nations team working in Jamaica. The SG was also met by hundreds of local UN Staff and representatives from the International Seabed Authority. The UN Team shared their appreciation for the SG’s advocacy for small island developing states and encouraged his mission and bilateral talks on global financing systems.
The SG then toured a part of downtown Kingston transformed into a gallery of street art and murals by Jamaican artists. The tour was facilitated by the office of the Mayor of Kingston, His Worship Delroy Williams and Kington Creatives, one of the largest third-sector non-profits working to revitalize the City of Kingston through the creative industry.
Immediately after this visit, the Secretary-General had a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, followed by a joint press conference.
In his remarks to journalists, the Secretary-General said that when we look at today’s international financial architecture, we are facing moral, power and practical problems.
These problems, he added, are impacting countries like Jamaica and this is why it was important for him to hear the perspective of the Prime Minister to translate the dramatic needs and interests of developing countries, and of countries like Jamaica, in initiatives the United Nations is developing and beyond.
Turning to Haiti, the Secretary-General reiterated the need — expressed in his proposal to the Security Council last year — for a non-United Nations international police force to crack down on the gangs. This, he added, needs to take place in parallel with a political process.
He acknowledged that this has been a difficult exercise, but he once again asked the international community to understand that effective solidarity with Haiti is not only a matter of generosity, it is essentially a matter of enlightened self-interest because the present situation in Haiti reflects a threat to the security of the whole region and further afield.
In the afternoon, the Secretary-General visited the Bob Marley Museum, The University of the West Indies as well as the historic site of Port Royal.
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08 November 2022
Multilaterial System Remains Critical in Tackling Global Challenges
These were the words of Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, at the flag raising ceremony commemorating Jamaica's 60th anniversary of membership in the United Nations.
“We remain fully convinced that the alternative to a functioning multilateral system is a more dangerous and divided world that will threaten to marginalise and erode the security and development of small States in particular. We must all, therefore, continue to emphasise the tremendous benefit to our nations and our people of a robust and well-functioning multilateral system,” she said.
She noted: “Small States like Jamaica are, of necessity, the strongest advocates for multilateralism and… multilateral cooperation will be key to getting us back on the road to sustainable economic growth and enhancing resilience to cope with global challenges. We must, therefore, reaffirm our commitment to a world underpinned by a strong rules-based multilateral system.”
The Minister was addressing the UN Day Anniversary Flag-Raising Ceremony at the Jamaica Conference Centre in downtown Kingston on October 24.
Senator Johnson Smith said that Jamaica will continue to play a positive role in the activities of the organs and bodies of the UN.
“We expect that their programmes and projects will complement those introduced at the national and regional levels and believe that our collective efforts will assist in achieving our own national development goals,” she said.
She noted that Vision 2030, which aligns with the overarching framework of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) continues to be Jamaica’s guide in this regard.
“The United Nations is the product of hope. As we mark UN Day, let us renew our hope and conviction in what humanity can achieve when we work as one in global solidarity,” Senator Johnson Smith added.
UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. Garry Conille said that now, more than ever, the institution must remain the space for constructive dialogue and a beacon for sustainable peace, prosperity and the future of the planet.
“Our modern world faces some of the greatest challenges in its history, from the climate crisis to COVID-19, from the fallout from the war in Ukraine to growing threats to democracy,” he pointed out.
Mr. Conille said that since Jamaica joined the UN in 1962, the country has played an outstanding role in the organisation’s system, helping to call international attention to matters such as human rights, decolonisation, economic cooperation, women's issues, among others.
He said that as Jamaica continues to lead an ambitious global agenda, the UN partnership in country, to accelerate progress towards the SDGs, is at its highest level.
“In the past two years alone, joint programmes have increased... with investments of the current country implementation plan already exceeding our expectations,” he said.
UN Day is commemorated annually on October 24, recognising the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945.
This year is the 77th anniversary of the UN, and the 60th anniversary of Jamaica’s membership to the UN.
Originally published by the Jamaica Information Service October 25, 2022
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Spotlight Initiative
The Spotlight Initiative is a global, multi-year partnership between the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
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21 August 2024
Government with United Nations Engages Youth Ahead of Summit of the Future
The event, held on Friday (August 16) at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston and online, was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Education and Youth, and the United Nations (UN) in Jamaica.It provided an opportunity for students and youth leaders, including persons in rural communities, across the Diaspora as well as those with disabilities, to engage with policy and decision-makers from the Government and UN system, to help craft and present their vision for the future to national and global leaders.Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, in her address, said the partners are “pleased that we’ve been able to create this opportunity to listen to the voices of our young people – voices of the present and indeed voices of the future – as we move closer to the 79th session of the UN General Assembly [in September] and more particularly, to the Summit of the Future, which will precede it.”Senator Johnson Smith said the Summit of the Future will bring together Heads of States and Governments with a common goal of international peace and security, supported by a strong multilateral system.It will accelerate efforts to meet existing international commitments and take concrete steps to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.“Leaders will discuss achieving sustainable development in spite of the many challenges that face our world. Jamaica will be participating and advocating in particular on the challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and other developing countries, issues including climate change, climate financing and financing for development,” Senator Johnson Smith pointed out.Jamaica and the Kingdom of the Netherlands are spearheading negotiations on a UN Declaration on Future Generations, which will be annexed to an action-oriented outcome document called the ‘Pact for the Future.’ Member States will sign off on the Pact during the Summit.Youth voices are an important part of the process in adopting a strong Declaration and Pact.The draft Declaration on Future Generations acknowledges that children and young people are agents of change, and that intergenerational dialogue/engagement is needed and should be taken into account in policy and decision-making processes to safeguard the needs and interests of future generations.The Minister noted that the world’s young people collectively form an extremely important stakeholder grouping, noting that while many globally are marginalised, living in circumstances of war and extreme vulnerability, as a global demographic they are more empowered than they have ever been before. She said that the UN recognises that young people must play a more active role in helping to create the world in which “we all live” and to make it better to overcome complex crises.“I think it bears emphasis that your participation, your perspectives are needed more than ever on progress and achievement of the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development in achieving in short, our Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Jamaica, therefore, commends the UN for developing a youth strategy, which prioritises engagement, participation and advocacy,” Senator Johnson Smith said.“But as a whole, however, in the broader context of our participation…it has been an absolute honour for Jamaica to co-facilitate the intergovernmental process for the Declaration on Future Generations,” she added.Senator Johnson Smith encouraged the young people to share their views and inputs towards the implementation of the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations.“We encourage you through this dialogue and otherwise, to take full advantage of the opportunity to have your voices heard,” she said.Written By: Latonya Linton, Jamaica Information Service (2024)Photos The Live Event
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20 August 2024
United Nations Jamaica Launches Inaugural Youth Advisory Group, Bringing Youth Leaders to the front of Sustainable Development Goals Advocacy and Decision Making
The Youth Advisory Group (YAG) marks a significant step in the organization’s efforts to amplify youth leadership and engagement in sustainable development processes and programmes. This initiative aligns with the global UN Youth Strategy, Youth2030, which emphasizes the importance of meaningful youth participation in all areas of the UN's work.The establishment of the YAG is a key component of UN Jamaica's comprehensive Youth Engagement Action Plan (YEAP). This plan, designed to bolster youth involvement across all pillars of the UN's work in Jamaica, is closely aligned with the timeline of the United Nations' current Cooperation Framework.The Youth Advisory Group aims to provide young leaders in Jamaica with another platform to play an active and leading role in the country's sustainable development, working in close collaboration with the UN. Members of the YAG will gain valuable insights into UN programmes both globally and locally, while also offering recommendations to UN leadership on how these programmes can better serve the youth of Jamaica."We believe that the voices of young people are crucial in shaping the future of Jamaica," said Dennis Zulu UN Resident Coordinator. "The Youth Advisory Group is an opportunity for youth leaders to directly influence the UN's work in the country, ensuring that our programmes are inclusive, relevant, and effective."Membership in the YAG will consist of active national youth representatives and emerging leaders who are committed to serving their communities. In line with the UN's mandate to "Leave No One Behind" (LNOB), the YAG will be both participatory and inclusive, representing the diverse voices and experiences of Jamaican youth.The YAG is expected to further strengthen the UN's engagement with young people in Jamaica, fostering a generation of leaders who are equipped to drive the nation's development forward sustainably and equitably. The initiative underscores the United Nations' ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and its recognition of young people as key partners in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Jamaica and beyond.“We recognise that we are borrowing this planet from young people, and we have a responsibility to leave it in good condition. This YAG ensures that Jamaica’s young people are not just in the front passenger seat, but are driving us towards resilient and sustainable development,” Zulu said.Photos from the Youth Dialogue Access the Terms of Reference HereAPPLY HERE
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31 August 2024
Serving affected populations post Hurricane Beryl
Children are among the most vulnerable that have been affected by Hurricane Beryl. In all 3,600 kits will be distributed to the most affected communities and 11,000 children will be supported through water points, child friendly spaces among other initiatives including monetary support for families with children under five years old, pregnant and lactating women and people with disabilities.Maliek Wallace, 7, hugs his mother, Kristina Cephas, after they received supplies and a UNICEF hygiene kit in Lionel Town, Clarendon. UNICEF donated 300 hygiene kits to the communities of Lionel Town, Rocky Point and Portland Cottage on Tuesday July 30. In total 3,600 hygiene kits will be distributed.Children and families are benefitting from relief supplies.UNICEF is on the ground supporting the most affected children. The hygiene kits consist of toothpaste, toothbrushes, laundry detergent, bar soaps, rags, handwashing soap, sanitary napkins, flashlight and mosquito repellent. Water points will be established as well as child friendly spaces as part of UNICEF's response.UNICEF works with partners to ensure that the affected communities are servedUNICEF is listening to the voices of children who have been impacted by Hurricane Beryl. From left to right, Little Cherish has the attention of Rebecca Tortello, UNICEF Education Specialist and Olga Isaza UNICEF Representative at one of the distribution centers.Children wait in line for their parents and guardians to collect the relief supplies.
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27 August 2024
Ms Inez - Passionate about People
While many people were preparing their homes and getting their families ready for Hurricane Beryl, 65-year-old Inez Williams, a resident of Clarendon, was busy preparing the Portland Cottage Primary School as a shelter in her community just in case children and their families needed a place of refuge. Portland Cottage is one of the communities severely affected by Hurricane Beryl, the category 4 hurricane which devastated mainly the southern and eastern parts of the island.Married for 31 years and a mother of nine children ranging from 26 to 47 years old, Ms. Inez, as she is affectionately called, has seen her fair share of hurricanes. After witnessing firsthand, the trauma that occurrences like these can cause, her desire was to contribute in some way, despite being affected herself.When Ms Inez spoke with UNICEF Representative, Olga Isaza, her enthusiasm for volunteerism and lending a helping hand shone brightly. “Once there are people in the shelter, it will remain open,” she said.Sean PryceHundreds turn out to collect relief supplies at the Portland Cottage Primary School in Clarendon. In total 3,600 hygiene kits will be distributed to severely affected communities. UNICEF’s response is part of a larger effort to ensure that 11,000 children are supported in the aftermath of the hurricane through cash transfers, child friendly spaces and other initiatives.I love to help people and love to see them happy. During Hurricane Ivan in 2004, I saw many people who were devastated, who lost their family members and homes, and even though I was not trained for that purpose, I decided to take up the challenge. When the call came out for training of Shelter Managers, I took it on, along with the training in First Aid. I have had several trainings with ODPEM, Red Cross and other agencies.Ms Inez, Shelter ManagerHaving served as a trained Shelter Manager for the past 20 years, some of Ms. Inez’s responsibilities include working with her team members to get the shelter prepared and open, once there is a warning, and ensuring that community members have all they need to stay safe before, during and after a hurricane.Hurricane DeanIn 2007 when Hurricane Dean affected the island, Ms. Inez was at the shelter helping to care for those who sought comfort, and it was not until a day after she realized that her home and all her furniture were completely gone. Even after a part of her house was rebuilt, she stayed at the shelter for two weeks, until everyone left.Hurricane BerylWhen the warning was issued on July 2 by the Government of Jamaica for Hurricane Beryl, Ms. Inez knew she needed to jump into action. She and another shelter manager cleaned the Portland Cottage Primary school and started registering those who came in. In all, they cared for 80 people including 37 children. The children were engaged in indoor games and stories to help keep them distracted from the storm that raged around them. Even the shelter was affected as the roof of one of the sections was damaged and Ms Inez had to relocate some of the people to another area of the shelter. For me, what stood out was how fearful the people were. They were very frightened especially about what they could lose due to the hurricane. As shelter manager, I tried to encourage them and prayed with and for them, reminding them that God is in control and that there is hope.Ms InezAfter the hurricane, more people arrived at the shelter, as some of them lost their roofs. Ms. Inez’s own home was not spared, as the capping of the roof went with the strong winds and water came in and destroyed some of her household items. Even then, she still didn’t leave the shelter until everyone left. Her family helped repair the leaking areas of her home while she was at the shelter.Days after the hurricane passed, many families returned home, with one person remaining at the shelter for up to a week. The shelter continues to be a space of solace as many community members come back to collect hot meals served by overseas volunteers. Donna-Marie RoweMany buildings lost their roofs during Hurricane Beryl, which lashed coastal communities in Clarendon, St Catherine, and St Elizabeth with category four rain and winds.She also rallied the help of other community members to help those most vulnerable. There was an elderly woman and her senior daughter who wanted to return home but couldn’t because part of their roof was gone. Ms. Inez called some men from the community to help to repair the roof, and they went as far as May Pen to get the necessary supplies. “I’ll never forget how grateful the elderly lady was when she called to thank me for getting the men to fix their roof so they could return home.”Ms. Inez has never regretted her decision to become a shelter manager, even though it comes with its own set of challenges. “A day in the life of a shelter manager may look good to those who may be watching, but I can assure you that it's tough. But when you really care for the lives of others, you put yourself in front and be the mother hen facing the danger,” she explained.For those thinking of becoming a shelter manager, Ms. Inez has some advice: “It's not about money but it's about loving and caring for others. Go out there and do it and when all is said and done, you will be fulfilled.”Despite her own home and family being affected by hurricanes each time, Ms. Inez will not let this deter her from volunteering and helping others. “l will do it again and again because somebody has to do it,” she reasoned. Sean PryceMs. Inez has never regretted her decision to become a shelter manager, even though it comes with its own set of challenges.About this blogUNICEF's response to the plight of children and their families in the aftermath of Category 4 Hurricane Beryl includes ensuring that 11,000 children are supported through child friendly spaces, water points, and other initiatives including monetary support for families with children under five years old, pregnant and lactating women and people with disabilities. Relief supplies continue to be distributed to the most affected areas while child protection, water, hygiene and sanitation are among the key focus areas for UNICEF. Follow UNICEF on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
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31 August 2024
Children and Families Receive Hygiene Kits
Sean PryceThis little boy is overcome with happiness after receiving the packages from UNICEFKINGSTON, 02 August 2024 – Children and their families in Clarendon turned out in their numbers to collect hygiene kits from UNICEF on Tuesday July 30.Hundreds of people from Rocky Point, Portland Cottage and Lionel Town benefitted from the collaborative effort of the teams from UNICEF and Food for the Poor (FFP) who journeyed to support the communities that have been left reeling from the effects of Beryl. The category 4 hurricane lashed these coastal areas on July 3. Many homes are still without roofs and people’s livelihoods have been destroyed as many are farmers and fisher folk.The distribution mission is one of many that have taken place shortly after the hurricane. During this visit, UNICEF donated 300 hygiene kits. The kits, packaged in a bucket, contained items such as laundry detergent, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bath soaps, rags, sanitary napkins, mosquito repellent and liquid anti-bacterial handwash.“UNICEF knows that children and their families are suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and our focus is on ensuring that they are receiving support in the areas of sanitation and hygiene, which is crucial at this time when their water supply and electricity are affected.This donation, is part of an ongoing support that UNICEF is providing to the most affected children and their families in these communities.”Olga Isaza, UNICEF RepresentativeSean PryceLittle Rushana, who is called 'Cherish' by her family, holds the attention of Olga Isaza, UNICEF Representative during the distribution mission in Lionel Town as she expressed how happy she was to receive the relief supplies. A curious little girl, Cherish, hurried to call her grandmother when she saw the crowd gathering.In all 3,600 kits will be distributed to the most affected communities and some 11,000 children will be supported through water points, child friendly spaces among other initiatives including monetary support for families with children under five years old, pregnant and lactating women and people with disabilities.In her appeal on behalf of children, Ms Isaza is urging communities to protect children from abuse and ill-treatment and to be extra watchful of their well-being.
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Press Release
10 September 2024
4th International SIDS Conference Points and what it means for Jamaica: The Jamaican Economy Panel Responds
In 1992, the world acknowledged that Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face unique challenges that demand urgent and focused attention. This global commitment was reinforced through the Barbados Programme of Action in 1994, the Mauritius Strategy in 2005, and the SAMOA Pathway in 2014. Yet, despite significant strides, SIDS continue to grapple with the relentless threats of climate change, natural disasters, and economic shocks. Over the past three decades, these nations have not only persevered but have emerged as trailblazers in climate action and ocean stewardship, leading the charge for a sustainable future.In this JEP discussion, panellists discussed whether the key priorities from the ABAS Outcome document truly align with Jamaica's National Development Plan. They explored if anything crucial was overlooked and shared insights on three areas from the ABAS 10-point action plan that Jamaica should prioritize to accelerate sustainable development. The discussion explored potential challenges that may arise as Jamaica strives to achieve these goals.According to Dr. Nadine McCloud, Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics, University of the West Indies Mona, hurricanes, like Beryl, underscore the severe threat that natural disasters and climate change pose to the sustainable development of SIDS like Jamaica and emphasize the critical role of development partners in efficiently supporting Jamaica's 10-year ABAS action plan to overcome these challenges.“Jamaica and the Caribbean’s most recent encounter with Hurricane Beryl is a staunch reminder of the existential threat of natural disasters and climate change to SIDS' sustainable economic development, given their natural limitations and fiscal restraints. Post-disaster recovery efforts are usually sluggish or non-existent in specific affected SIDS communities, compounding their economic woes, thus making the development goalpost less reachable,” Dr. McCloud said.Jamaica has made notable strides in climate resilience, sustainable economic growth, and social development. However, this progress has not translated into a significant increase in its SDG score since 2015. The 2024 Sustainable Development Report shows that Jamaica's overall score in 2023 is slightly below its score in 2022. Much work lies ahead as Jamaica enters the second half of the SDGs. The 10-year plan will be instrumental in helping Jamaica diversify its economy, secure better access to finance, and confront environmental challenges, all aimed at achieving sustainable prosperity.Responding to the survey results, Mr. Dennis Zulu, United Nations Resident Coordinator, agreed that “Achieving the four key priority areas outlined in the ABAS Outcome document requires sustained collective efforts and strategic partnerships with development partners to effectively design, finance, and implement policies, projects, and programs aimed at securing long-term sustainability.” Overall, the JEP Panellists' discussion concluded that halfway through the SDGs, the ABAS agreement offers SIDS a crucial opportunity to reassess and address their ongoing challenges including climate change, environmental degradation, and economic vulnerabilities. Dr. Stuart Davies, Senior Economist, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office highlighted that “The unrelenting compounding impacts of climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, disasters and natural hazards, health and other social-related challenges together with economic vulnerabilities continue to beset SIDS development progress. Economic transformation and resilience building are core elements to the ABAS’s plan and strategic investments to increase productive capacities are an important part to this. While a strong alignment with ABAS provides added comfort to Jamaica, there is still much to do to realise sustainable development in the years ahead.” The Jamaican Economy Panel is part of a partnership between the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) and the Department of Economics at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona. The JEP brings together economic, public-sector experts and development practitioners to address monthly socio-economic questions. These questions help to highlight relevant economic issues and the collective expertise of the panellists.For more information on the Jamaican Economy Panel and the results of this JEP discussion, visit the UN Jamaica website at www. jamaica.un.org.
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Press Release
10 May 2024
Economists Discuss a Transition Beyond GDP Per Capita For Jamaica’s Sustainable Development
The JEP discussion paper examines the possibility of adopting measures Beyond GDP to gauge sustainable development in Jamaica. It addresses concerns regarding the effectiveness of GDP per capita in measuring development progress, especially in terms of sustainable development.The JEP discussion recognizes the global reliance on GDP per capita as a key measure of economic activity as well as its limitations in capturing multidimensional development indicators as part of assessing sustainable progress. According to Dr. Nadine McCloud, Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics, University of the West Indies Mona, Beyond-GDP measures designed by the PIOJ and the UNEP have addressed some of the challenges. “There is broad consensus that using GDP per capita as a metric for economic performance and development is tantamount to viewing a country and its citizens through a narrow and severely biased lens fraught with many ills,” Dr. McCloud said. “The most critical input to the production of any useful data-driven measure is data, which are subjected to, for example, institutional and governmental barriers,” Dr. McCloud added.Introducing a new development measurement tool for Jamaica comes with its share of challenges. The JEP panel emphasized several hurdles, including inadequate data on non-economic aspects and challenges in quantifying intangible assets. Additionally, resistance from entrenched institutions and policymakers accustomed to GDP-focused methods, along with limited awareness among policymakers, stakeholders and the public regarding the limitations of GDP and the advantages of alternative measures.Responding to the survey results, Mr. Dennis Zulu, United Nations Resident Coordinator, agreed that “Moving beyond GDP will require committed collective efforts among various partners and stakeholders to research, design, finance and educate on new measurement tools in the years to come.” He added that “The United Nations is committed to working with the government to implement more nuanced development measurement tools like Beyond-GDP for a more adequate measure of Jamaica’s sustainable development progress as well as for more effective development planning.”Overall, the JEP Panellists agreed that the advancements in wealth accounting provide a deeper comprehension of both the quantity and quality of growth and development. As highlighted by Dr. Stuart Davies, Senior Economist, UN Resident Coordinators Office.“Recent advances in wealth accounting, which go beyond GDP, can enable a better understanding of not only the quantity but also the quality of growth and development. Development planners, decision-makers, and practitioners can now better understand the interlinkages and trade-offs between national assets, and reflect these in their policies, projects and programmes to achieve sustainable development more effectively. For small island developing countries, like Jamaica, these new wealth accounting tools enable more nuanced approaches to development that enhance not just future prosperity but also resilience in all its forms,” Dr. Davies said. The Jamaican Economy Panel is part of a partnership between the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) and the Department of Economics at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona. The JEP brings together economic, public-sector experts and development practitioners to address monthly socio-economic questions. These questions help to highlight relevant economic issues and the collective expertise of the panellists.For more information on the Jamaican Economy Panel and for the results of this JEP discussion, visit here.
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Press Release
08 May 2024
Belize, Jamaica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and Syphilis
Belize, Jamaica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines are the latest countries in the Americas to receive certification from the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating the mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis (EMTCT). The milestone was marked today at a commemorative event organized by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Kingston, Jamaica, with support from UNICEF and UNAIDS and with the participation of health ministers from the three countries.“This achievement is a testament to years of dedication, hard work, and collaboration among governments, health professionals, and communities”, PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa said at the event. Dr. Barbosa also acknowledged the “remarkable resilience” displayed by the three countries, ensuring the adaptation and continuation of essential services despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. “I trust that the celebration today will inspire other countries to reinvigorate their commitments” towards a generation free of HIV and congenital syphilis.In 2010, countries of the Americas committed to the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis and endorsed the regional strategy, which was updated in 2016 under the PAHO Plan of Action for the Prevention and Control of HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections.To meet elimination targets, countries focused on strengthening prevention and treatment services within primary health care and in maternal and child health, updating guidelines, ensuring the effective screening of pregnant women, monitoring cases and following-up with HIV and syphilis exposed infants. In a video message, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, praised Belize for integrating primary disease prevention and treatment into maternal and child health services. He also commended Jamaica for its civil society organizations' commitment to human rights and lauded St. Vincent and the Grenadines for investing in robust national laboratory structures. "While validation is a tremendous accomplishment, maintaining it requires sustained efforts to prevent new infections," he said. "WHO and partners will continue to support all countries in the Americas to strengthen health systems, provide comprehensive services, and ensure the involvement of women in planning and service delivery."Globally, 19 countries and territories have now been certified for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and/or syphilis, with 11 of them located in the Americas. In 2015, Cuba made history by becoming the first country in the world to achieve the dual elimination of HIV and syphilis. This was followed by Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bermuda, Cayman Islands and Montserrat and St. Kitts and Nevis in 2017, and Dominica in 2020.“The end of AIDS is an opportunity for a uniquely powerful legacy for today’s leaders. We are again celebrating a great public health milestone today as Caribbean countries show global leadership in the elimination agenda to achieve an HIV free generation,” Luisa Cabal, UNAIDS Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, said.New HIV infections among children in the Caribbean decreased by 25% between 2010 and 2022. During that period, annual notified cases declined from 2,000 to 1,500. Reported cases of congenital syphilis in the English-speaking Caribbean now stand at 36 cases per 100,000 newborns, below the goal of no more than 50 cases per 100,000 newborns."UNICEF welcomes the commitment of Belize, Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for achieving the double elimination of vertical transmission for HIV and Syphilis", Garry Conille, UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, said. “We are confident that this milestone will be a catalyst for other countries in the region to pursue the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission Agenda toward the 2030 target: No children left behind in the progress to end AIDS,” Conille added. WHO awards this certification to countries which have brought the mother-to-child HIV transmission rate to under 5%; provided antenatal care and antiretroviral treatment to more than 90% of pregnant women; reported fewer than 50 new cases of congenital syphilis per 100,000 newborns, and achieved an HIV case rate of fewer than 500 per 100,000 live births.Elimination InitiativeThe PAHO Elimination Initiative seeks to put an end to more than 30 communicable diseases, including the mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis, in Latin America and the Caribbean by 2030. The initiative was relaunched during the Organization’s 60th Directing Council and seeks to harness the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as from previous elimination experiences to accelerate disease elimination in the Region. Quotes from Ministers of HealthKevin Bernard, Minister of Health and Wellness of Belize: “Eliminating mother to child transmission of HIV and syphilis is an extremely significant accomplishment for the people and the country of Belize. The activities leading up to this momentous goal were not always easy, however with the commitment and motivation of our health care workers, in all areas of health, this has become a reality. We continue to work towards achieving public health goals for a healthier and more productive Belize.”Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness of Jamaica: “The elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis is a win that underscores protecting the health of all. It is also exemplary of the extraordinary progress being made in our maternal health care. What’s more, it is vitally important that we consolidate the gains made from this achievement, especially through continued community engagement and partnership in the public health interest of all.” St. Clair Jimmy Prince, Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment of St Vincent and the Grenadines: “I commend the dedication and commitment of healthcare workers on achieving certification by the World Health Organization (WHO) of the dual elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV and syphilis. This achievement signals to the world that ending paediatric HIV and congenital syphilis through the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis is achievable. The Ministry will continue to work towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.” ### About PAHOThe Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of its population. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system. About UNAIDSThe Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) leads and inspires the world to achieve its shared vision of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. UNAIDS unites the efforts of 11 UN organizations—UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, UNDP, UNFPA, UNODC, UN Women, ILO, UNESCO, WHO and the World Bank—and works closely with global and national partners towards ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. Learn more at unaids.org and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. About UNICEFUNICEF works in the world’s toughest places to reach the most disadvantaged children and adolescents – and to protect the rights of every child, everywhere. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive and fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. And we never give up.For more information about UNICEF and its work in LAC visit: www.unicef.org/lac LINKSElimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV, Syphilis, Perinatal Hepatitis B, and Congenital Chagas Disease https://www.paho.org/en/topics/elimination-mother-child-transmission-hiv-syphilis-perinatal-hepatitis-b-and-congenitalPAHO Elimination Initiativehttps://www.paho.org/en/elimination-initiative CONTACTSPAHOLuciana Viegas: + 1 202 981-8455 | Sebastian Oliel: +1 202 316-5679 | Ashley Baldwin: +1 202 340-4025 | mediateam@paho.org | www.paho.org UNAIDSDaniel de Castro | UNAIDS Regional Communications & Global Advocacy Adviser | Latin America and the Caribbean | cel: +507 6998 3175 | @unaidslac |decastrod@unaids.org UNICEFSendai Zea | Communication Specialist UNICEF LACRO | sczea@unicef.org | +507 68210843
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Press Release
05 April 2024
United Nations and The Bahamas Facilitate Inaugural Joint National Steering Committee Meeting
NASSAU – The Bahamas' Joint National Steering Committee (JNSC) for the United Nations Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF) held its country-level meeting on March 26 with the Sustainable Development Goals Unit (SDGU), Office of The Prime Minister and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. Representatives from various Ministries and Departments within the Government of The Bahamas, alongside UN Resident Coordinator Staff and UN agency representatives, were in attendance, virtually and in person. During the meeting, Co-chairs Mr. Dennis Zulu, UN Resident Coordinator and Director Rochelle Newbold, SDGU, communicated the significance of collective action in accomplishing the goals outlined in the MSDCF and its accompanying country implementation plan (CIP). The Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF) for the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean spans from 2022 to 2026 and is the roadmap for coordinated development support agreed to by regional member states including The Bahamas.The MSDCF is the foremost instrument for planning and implementing UN development initiatives that align with the 2030 SDG Agenda and The Bahamas’ national development priorities. UN agencies and national governments, including The Bahamas, endorsed the Cooperation Framework, for the first time in 2022."The Joint National Steering Committee is very important to the transparency, monitoring, and accountability of UN-Bahamas programme implementation," Co-chair Zulu said. "This meeting is being held at an opportune time because it allows us to focus on the specifics of the Country Implementation Plan, in the case of The Bahamas." Co-chair Zulu added."This is a meeting that has been long anticipated. Most of you may recall that when this administration took office, this was one of the first undertakings that it committed the country to be a part of, this regional MSDCF," Co-chair Newbold said. “We are very excited and willing to [partner]," Co-chair Newbold added. The meeting featured a short presentation on the MSDCF's focus and structure and a summary of the key focus areas under The Bahamas' 2022/2023 country implementation plan (CIP). The CIP results will be published in an upcoming annual report. Representatives from relevant UN agencies also gave updates on the annual results review and achievements for 2023, including a presentation on the 2024/2025 country implementation plan. Critical discussions during the meeting centred around potential and new collaborations as well as best practices and capacity building. Participants engaged in fruitful dialogue, exchanging insights and perspectives to address technical and procedural gaps, and explored future opportunities for successful partnerships and programme implementation. The meeting came to a close with practical recommendations for Ministries and Departments to adopt the most effective methods to advance the work of the CIP. The SDG team pledged to support Ministries and Departments in advancing their work. The United Nations recommitted to greater momentum, and engagement with the JNSC to advance and sustain its effort in The Bahamas.
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Press Release
17 January 2024
Economists Highlight Six Transitions Framework as Accelerator for Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals in Jamaica
The JEP inquiry addressed the relevance of these transitions, potential prioritization, identification of gaps, and consideration of redundancy in the Jamaican context. The panel discussion and the Six Transitions prioritized investments in six overarching areas: education, gender equality, health, sustainable energy, food, cities, and digital innovation can significantly enhance countries' ability to meet their SDG targets.
According to Dr. Nadine McCloud, Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics, University of the West Indies Mona, the SDGs are essential metrics for measuring the improvements in our citizens' lives and livelihoods. Thus, we must recognise the importance of achieving marked progress.
“Despite being stymied by the pandemic, Jamaica's significant upward trend in the SDG goals deserves commendations. This upward trend must continue, and the next few years are critical. Jamaica must devote more resources to building resilient food security mechanisms, digital connectivity systems, climate change buffers, and deepening our human capital to continue on this positive path. Given the global technology revolution, we must consider utilising artificial intelligence to expedite reaching the SDGs,” Dr. McCloud said.
Current global assessments of the Sustainable Development Goals indicate we are falling behind - globally. The 2023 Sustainable Development Report highlights that only 1 in 8 SDG targets is on track, and UNCTAD's 2023 World Investment Report reveals an increased annual investment deficit of US$4 Trillion, up from US$2.5 Trillion in 2015 when the SDGs were adopted. Jamaica, presently ranked 82nd, surpasses the SIDS (63.9) and Caribbean (65.9) averages with an SDG performance score of 69.6. However, urgent challenges persist, requiring prompt action to achieve its goals.
Responding to the survey results, Mr. Dennis Zulu, United Nations Resident Coordinator, agreed that “Achieving these goals demands ongoing collective efforts and partnerships with various stakeholders to design, finance, and implement policies, projects, and programmes in the years to come.” He emphasised that “The United Nations and the government must collaborate to champion the Six Transition areas and accelerate SDGs in Jamaica through strategic partnerships.”
Overall, the JEP Panellists' discussion concluded that significant progress has been made in some areas, like gender equality and decent work, however, Jamaica will still need to accelerate its efforts in the coming years. As highlighted by Dr. Stuart Davies, Senior Economist, UN Resident Coordinators Office.
“With the clock ticking, designing investments and development pathways to accelerate multiple SDGs will be critical if Jamaica is to meet its sustainable development targets by 2030. How Jamaica takes the best from global guidance and practice on transformation, and fine-tuning this to its sustainable development needs in the coming years will be an important determinant of success,” Dr. Davies said.
The Jamaican Economy Panel is part of a partnership between the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) and the Department of Economics at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona. The JEP brings together economic, public-sector experts and development practitioners to address monthly socio-economic questions. These questions help to highlight relevant economic issues and the collective expertise of the panellists.
For more information on the Jamaican Economy Panel and the results of this JEP discussion, visit the UN Jamaica website.
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For further information, please contact:
United Nations: Dr. Stuart Davies, Senior Economist. Email: stuart.davies@un.org
Department of Economics, University of the West Indies: Dr. Nadine McCloud, Senior Lecturer, Email: nadine.mccloud02@uwimona.edu.jm
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