In the pursuit of advancing women and girls in Jamaica, the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, with a keen focus on its portfolio agency, the Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA), prioritizes concerted efforts.
This resolute commitment was underscored by Portfolio Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange, during her address at Sunday’s (March 3) International Women’s Day (IWD) commemorative church service.
Guided by legislative framework
Addressing congregants at the Gregory Park Baptist Church in St Catherine, Minister Grange emphasized the Ministry’s adherence to a robust legislative framework.
She highlighted the importance of this framework, which encompasses policies designed to provide protection and support for women and girls.
Concrete actions toward gender equality
Minister Grange outlined key legislative measures implemented by the Government to uphold gender equality and combat gender-based violence.
These measures include the enactment of the National Policy for Gender Equality, the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act, 2021, the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Act, 2023, and the National Strategic Action Plan to Eliminate Gender-based Violence (NSAP-GBV) in Jamaica.
Striving for gender balance in governance
In addition to legislative actions, Minister Grange highlighted initiatives aimed at achieving gender balance in governance structures.
She noted the introduction of a policy mandating that government Boards maintain a minimum 30 per cent representation of either women or men, a step towards fostering inclusivity and equitable representation.
Non-negotiable investment in women and girls
Minister Grange reiterated the imperative of investing in women and girls, emphasizing its non-negotiable nature.
Such investment, she emphasized, is pivotal in driving progress towards gender equality, equity, and socio-economic empowerment.
The Minister stressed the multifaceted nature of this investment, encompassing social policy development, research, sensitization, and capacity-building initiatives.
Celebrating progress in female leadership
Pointing to the rise of women in leadership roles, Minister Grange hailed it as a testament to the strides made over decades.
She emphasized the significance of support and encouragement for women, citing female leadership as a tangible example of what can be achieved through such empowerment efforts.
Acknowledging community contributions
Minister Grange commended the members of Gregory Park Baptist Church for their commendable efforts in implementing outreach programs benefiting women and girls.
She specifically lauded the church’s Women’s Federation Group and the Mission and Evangelism Departments for their impactful work in areas such as counseling, health, wellness, and educational support within the community.
