11th Jamaica Diaspora Conference ceremonially opens in Montego Bay

The ceremonial opening of the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference was held on June 15, 2026, at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. The event formed a centrepiece of the wider gathering, which runs from June 14 to 18, 2026.

The conference brings together Jamaicans from around the world with government leaders, business stakeholders, youth representatives, and development partners. Its purpose is to strengthen engagement between Jamaica and its global diaspora, with the week framed as a working forum for collaboration across sectors and regions.

This year's programme is built around the theme "Diaspora Partnerships: Re-Building a More Climate-Resilient Jamaica." Organisers have outlined several core objectives for the sessions ahead. These include deepening partnerships between Jamaica and its diaspora communities, mobilising overseas investment, expertise, and philanthropy, and supporting climate resilience alongside infrastructure rebuilding and sustainable development.

Further aims cover the expansion of trade, entrepreneurship, and innovation opportunities, as well as stronger youth engagement and intergenerational leadership within diaspora networks.

Among the principal figures linked to the conference, Kamina Johnson Smith has stressed the importance of diaspora contributions to Jamaica's development. Earl Jarrett has described the gathering as a major homecoming for overseas Jamaicans and a significant opportunity to build lasting partnerships that extend beyond the opening ceremony.