Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Audrey Marks, has urged the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to boost support for vital initiatives, especially those targeting crime in Jamaica.
Marks emphasized that funding for Jamaican projects by USAID has seen a reduction. For 2020-2025, the financial support stands at US$60 million, down from the US$123.4 million provided between 2013 and 2020.
She highlighted the significant advancements Jamaica has achieved but emphasized the necessity for robust and adequately funded cooperation to see initiatives like Plan Secure Jamaica to fruition.
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This particular project, which is a significant bilateral initiative with the State Department, is aimed at aligning multiple efforts by the U.S. in Jamaica. The project’s goals include countering organized crime, bolstering energy security, enhancing trade and investment to create jobs, and enhancing resilience against climate change.
Marks believes that USAID is exceptionally placed to aid in the execution of this initiative and expressed enthusiasm about collaborating further with the agency.
This appeal was made during the oath-taking ceremony of the new USAID Country Representative for Jamaica, Dr. Jay Singh, at the USAID headquarters in Washington DC.
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Welcoming Dr. Singh, Marks also commemorated the 61-year partnership between Jamaica and the U.S., citing numerous successful projects that have driven socio-economic growth and made a profound difference in Jamaican lives.
Marks expressed the Jamaican Government’s gratitude for the enduring relationship with USAID, acknowledging its transformative impact on the country.
Dr. Singh, responding to Marks, reiterated his dedication to strengthening the partnership with Jamaica.
He asserted his commitment to securing more funding to amplify ongoing projects and kickstart new initiatives. He recognized the numerous challenges Jamaica has faced and emphasized the need for continued support.
Six decades of partnership: USAID’s role in Jamaica’s development
Paloma Adams-Allen, the Deputy Administrator for USAID, and a native of St. Mary, Jamaica like Ambassador Marks, underscored the six-decade-long partnership between USAID and Jamaica.
This partnership has advanced various sectors, including education, health, and economic development. Adams-Allen highlighted current efforts focusing on crime, health system strengthening, and climate change resilience. She also celebrated the strong foundation built over the years and praised social-intervention programs that empower a new Jamaican generation and stimulate the nation’s economy.
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