MONTEGO BAY, St James — Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, has called for strengthened collaboration between Jamaica and its overseas community as the country seeks to build a more resilient and prosperous future.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service for the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference at Calvary Baptist Church in Montego Bay on Sunday, Johnson Smith underscored the importance of reinforcing the bonds that unite Jamaicans at home and abroad.
She said there is a need “to solidify and re-energise those positive elements of our shared Jamaican-ness that unite us across oceans and continents.”
The minister noted that Jamaicans living overseas have long played a vital role in the nation’s development through investments, professional expertise, mentorship and philanthropic efforts. She highlighted the diaspora’s contributions across sectors including business, education, healthcare, public service, the church and the arts.
Johnson Smith said this year’s conference presents an opportunity to rethink and strengthen those partnerships to ensure a more prosperous and resilient Jamaica for future generations.
Reflecting on the country’s history, she praised the resilience of the Jamaican people in overcoming numerous challenges.
“Throughout our history we have faced many challenges that have tested our strength and our resolve,” she said, adding that Jamaicans have consistently demonstrated the ability to overcome economic hardships, natural disasters, global crises and social challenges.
Meanwhile, Mayor of Montego Bay and Chairman of the St James Municipal Corporation, Councillor Richard Vernon, described the conference as a national call to action.
Referencing the conference theme, ‘Diaspora Partnerships: Rebuilding a More Resilient Jamaica’, Vernon said Jamaicans both at home and abroad must focus on creating a sustainable future rather than dwelling on existing challenges.
He expressed hope that the event would be remembered as a defining moment when Jamaicans worldwide committed to rebuilding together through investment, accountable governance, climate resilience and stronger partnerships.
Custos Rotulorum for St James, Bishop Conrad Pitkin, also highlighted the significance of the diaspora, noting that its impact extends beyond financial support. He credited overseas Jamaicans for helping to shape the nation’s social and economic development through ideas, advocacy and continued family support.
State Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, delivered the scripture reading during the service.
The 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference is being held from June 14 to 18 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James.
