More Than Money: Government Taking a Comprehensive Approach to Breaking the Cycle of Poverty
The Government of Jamaica is continuing to transform how poverty is addressed by expanding its focus beyond income support. Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says Jamaica’s anti-poverty strategy is now fully aligned with the complex realities many citizens face.
Dr. Holness says the government is determined to meet people where they are.
“When we think about poverty, most of us only think about money,” said the Prime Minister at the launch of the Solidarity Programme.
“But there are so many other ways that people suffer. Yes, some people lack income, but others lack access to knowledge, to basic services, to a sense of belonging, or to the tools that would allow them to rise.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that true poverty has many faces, and for policy to be effective, it must reflect that truth.
“We are working to dismantle the idea that poverty is just about dollars and cents,” he said. “Poverty can also mean being cut off from opportunities, from information, and from hope.”
The Prime Minister pointed to several key areas where the government has made significant progress.
“We’ve brought unemployment down from over 13 percent to 3.5 percent, which is the lowest in our history. That means more Jamaicans have jobs today than ever before. But our work doesn’t stop there.”
Prime Minister Holness noted that access to education has vastly improved, with near-universal enrollment at the secondary level.
The government has also introduced new programmes to support poor Jamaicans in acquiring official documentation like birth certificates and national identification, as well as expanding access to health care.
“There was a time when people couldn’t afford to go to the clinic,” Dr. Holness said. “Today, more Jamaicans are seeking health care because we have made it more accessible and affordable.”
However, Dr. Holness acknowledged that challenges remain.
“Access to amenities like water, proper roads, internet, and security is still uneven,” the Prime Minister said. “That is why we continue to build out infrastructure and expand our social safety net.”
In launching the Solidarity Programme, which includes a one-time grant of $20,000 for 50,000 Jamaicans not currently covered by PATH, NIS, or other schemes, the government is making a deliberate move to close the gap for those who feel left out.
“Our mission is clear,” Prime Minister Holness said. “We are not just giving people money. We are building a pathway for dignity, for opportunity, and for inclusion. Every Jamaican deserves the chance to participate in the growth of this country, and we are making sure they do.”
The Prime Minister reiterated that this approach to poverty is rooted in fairness, equity, and national unity.
“We are serious about lifting people up, and we will not rest until no one is left behind,” he said.