Jamaica Broadband Network and Subsea Cable to Boost Islandwide Internet Access

Jamaica plans to strengthen its digital backbone through two large projects intended to improve internet service and connectivity throughout the island.

The National Broadband Network and a new subsea cable were outlined by Hon. Ambassador Audrey Marks, Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation.

"The goal is simple, to give every Jamaican better internet access at more affordable prices, so that whether someone lives in Kingston or a remote community, they can learn, work, build a business, and turn great ideas into real opportunities that can uplift their family, transform Jamaica, and compete on the world stage," Ambassador Marks stated.

She made the remarks on May 20 during her contribution to the 2026/2027 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

Ambassador Marks described the National Broadband Network as a major national investment with far-reaching potential.

She said the system is projected to link as many as 2,768 government sites, among them schools, while also extending high-speed broadband to about 490,000 households across Jamaica, including 140,000 homes in underserved areas.

The Minister said the programme is expected to deepen digital inclusion, create wider access to opportunities and reduce the country's connectivity gap.

She also reported that the Government has recently signed with Trans Americas Fiber System for a new subsea cable landing in Jamaica. Ambassador Marks said that cable is expected to sharply raise Jamaica's internet capacity, providing up to 20 terabits per second of bandwidth.