Niagara Falls was illuminated in the black, green, and gold of the Jamaican flag on Saturday as Jamaica marked the 60th anniversary of the Canada–Jamaica Farm Work Program (SAWP).
In a release, the Jamaican Government said the lighting took place at 9:30 pm Jamaica time (10:30 pm Canada time), highlighting six decades of partnership between the two countries under the program.
Members of the public were able to view the display live through 24-hour webcams, including feeds capturing the falls and surrounding areas, allowing Jamaicans at home and across the diaspora to witness the event in real time.
The symbolic display formed part of a wider program of commemorative activities recognising the SAWP, which began in 1966 with 264 Jamaican workers and has since expanded to provide opportunities for more than 9,000 workers each year.
Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr. expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship between Jamaica and Canada.
“The Government and people of Jamaica extend sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Canada for a partnership that has stood the test of time. For 60 years, this relationship has nurtured opportunities, sustained livelihoods and strengthened the bonds between our nations,” he said.
He added that the program’s impact continues to be felt across Jamaican communities, supporting families and contributing to stability through employment opportunities abroad.
Permanent Secretary with responsibility for the Overseas Employment Programme, Colette Roberts Risden, said the initiative’s success has been driven by strong operational systems.
“The strength of this programme lies in disciplined execution. We manage a full system, from recruitment and vetting to deployment and on-site oversight. Standards are enforced, performance is monitored and support structures are active in the field. That is how we protect our workers, maintain employer confidence and secure Jamaica’s position in a competitive labour market,” she said.
The illumination was one of several activities planned to mark the milestone, including a church service held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Cornerstone Community Church in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The anniversary program, led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the Jamaican Liaison Service in Canada, also included plans for a scholarship program, a documentary on the history of the initiative, a national day of recognition for agricultural workers, and other activities across both countries.
A Jamaican delegation, led by the minister and including Roberts Risden, was expected to participate in commemorative and industry events in Canada, engaging government counterparts, employers, and sector partners.
