Jamaica steps up land titling, hurricane readiness and school technology programmes

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has warned that organised squatting and informal subdivision of land are creating long-term problems for housing, infrastructure and public safety, while the Government works to expand formal land ownership and affordable housing options.

Speaking at a titling ceremony on Wednesday, where 124 residents from more than 10 Manchester communities received certificates of title under the systematic land registration programme, Holness said unplanned settlements make it costly and difficult to install water, sewerage, roads and garbage services. Minister Robert Montague has been given responsibility for protecting state lands from illegal occupation. The National Land Agency, marking its 25th anniversary, has issued more than 13,000 titles over the past five years, with a target of 25,000 annually.

Holness also used Wednesday’s National Disaster Risk Management Council meeting to urge stronger coordination before the hurricane season. He said emergency agencies, security forces, schools, health facilities, utilities, businesses and scientific bodies must sharpen continuity plans, early-warning systems, backup power, public communication and supply arrangements.

At the Bank of Jamaica, outgoing Governor Richard Byles said commercial banks have moved too slowly to retrofit point-of-sale systems for Jam-Dex transactions. Payment systems official Mario Griffiths said at least one deposit-taking institution is expected to complete upgrades by July 2026, while others have indicated later timelines.

The Ministry of Education and the Digital Foundation have signed an agreement to restore smart labs at Anchovy Primary in St. James and Unity Primary in Westmoreland after Hurricane Melissa. Permanent Secretary Dr. Kasan Troupe said more than 2,400 students and about 120 teachers should benefit from new devices, Mimio boards, furniture, computer locks and training.

The Labour Ministry’s 14 National Heroes Circle building has been renamed for late former minister Lynden Newland. Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. also announced an annual Hon. Mavis Gilmore Centenarian Honour for Jamaica’s oldest citizen, noting that 423 registered centenarians live locally, and named Alistair McClean as Jamaica’s first disability inclusion advocate.

The programme also urged banana farmers to improve drainage, root health, planting schedules and post-storm recovery, while travellers were reminded to arrive early, secure valuables, refuse to carry items for others and stay alert at airports. A St. Catherine school feature highlighted improved student engagement through digital tools, broadband, computers and learning apps.