The British High Commission has signed a $19.5 million agreement with Jamaica’s National Integrity Action (NIA) to launch an anti-bribery campaign aimed at promoting integrity in public and private sectors.
The funding, provided by the United Kingdom, will support the NIA in raising public awareness about the need for comprehensive anti-bribery legislation in Jamaica, a country that currently lacks such laws. The campaign will also advocate for reforms to strengthen Jamaica’s broader anti-corruption framework.
“The signing is timely as the world observes International Anti-Corruption Day on Monday, December 9,” said the British High Commission in a statement on Friday. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster public trust and enhance transparency, with the potential to serve as a model for governance reform across the Caribbean.
Commitment to integrity
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Kingston, British High Commissioner Judith Slater emphasized the importance of partnerships in combating corruption.
“Corruption undermines public trust and economic growth. We are pleased to support the National Integrity Action’s efforts to increase awareness and empower Jamaicans to strive for accountability and integrity in all sectors,” Slater said. She noted the UK’s history of supporting Jamaica’s anti-corruption efforts, primarily through capacity building for government agencies, while acknowledging the critical role of civil society in advocacy and education.
NIA Principal Director Danielle Archer praised the partnership as a significant step toward democratic strengthening. “This key MoU showcases the United Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s democratic institutions. Their extraordinary support for the NIA in advocating anti-bribery laws is encouraging,” Archer said.
She highlighted that anti-bribery legislation could curb cronyism and nepotism, promote fairness, and boost public trust, making Jamaica more attractive for investment and economic growth.
Building on existing efforts
The campaign complements ongoing NIA initiatives, such as advocating for amendments to the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) to include Unexplained Wealth Orders, lobbying for stronger security measures, and establishing Integrity Clubs in schools.
Friday’s agreement was signed by the UK’s Development Representative in Jamaica, Oliver Blake, and the NIA’s Danielle Archer, alongside High Commissioner Slater and NIA Board Chairperson Fae Ellington. The signing took place at the British High Commission in Kingston.
The NIA hopes the campaign will resonate with Jamaicans, fostering a nationwide movement for accountability and setting the stage for critical governance reforms.
