Crown Prince Haakon of Norway is set to visit Jamaica from November 18-20 to promote climate resilience as a global Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Since taking on this role in 2003, he has been committed to advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on eradicating poverty (Goal 1) and conserving marine life (Goal 14). His visit aims to strengthen efforts in these areas and foster collaboration on climate initiatives.
Jamaica’s marine and coastal communities are increasingly vulnerable due to climate change and other factors, jeopardizing both ecosystem resilience and the nature-based livelihoods that depend on tourism and fisheries. During his visit, Crown Prince Haakon will gain firsthand insights into how Jamaica, with support from Norway and the UNDP, is enhancing its ocean economy and building resilience in these at-risk communities.
He will meet with local authorities, youth, and community representatives to discuss challenges and solutions related to oceans, climate change, and poverty. His discussions will include efforts to combat illegal fishing through the UNDP’s Blue Resilience Program, which aims to improve marine resource management and protect against transnational crime in the fisheries sector.
Crown Prince Haakon will visit the coastal community of Rocky Point to see how the Norwegian-supported Blue Resilience Program is helping secure the future of fishing communities. He will also go to Mount Airy, where water collection systems have been rehabilitated as part of UNDP’s efforts to enhance climate adaptation and human security.
Additionally, he will engage in a dialogue with youth leaders at The University of the West Indies, focusing on how young people can contribute to nature-based solutions, climate action, and combating poverty in their communities.
