Prime Minister Declares that Jamaica is Making a Bold Step Toward Securing Jamaica’s Independence and Security with the Commissioning of HMJS Marcus Garvey Vessel
The Government is now seeing the effects of the decisive steps made to invest in Jamaica’s security apparatus to transform the sector.
In that regard, Prime Minister Andrew Holness says there has been significant transformation of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) over the past eight (8) years.
“Recognizing the importance of robust defence capabilities, we have significantly increased our investment and support of the JDF over the last nine years. I have had the distinct honour of commissioning five vessels since 2016, with the HMJS Marcus Garvey being the sixth,” he stated. “These investments in Jamaica’s defence and security also include the procurement of aircraft, patrol vessels, armoured vehicles, radar systems, cyber forensic labs, and enhanced digital surveillance capabilities, along with an expanded fleet of officers,” said Prime Minister Holness.
Speaking at the Commissioning ceremony for the MHJS Marcus Garvey, the sixth vessel since 2016 for the Jamaica Defence Force, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of investing in Jamaica’s maritime capabilities in a changing world with frequent, multiple, and overlapping challenges.
“Jamaica has stewardship over a marine space estimated to be at least 24 times its land area. This extensive marine territory and strategic geographic location place Jamaica on key shipping and trade routes, offering significant opportunities for the sustainable use of ocean resources,” he explained.
Highlighting the broader implications of public investments in Jamaica’s institutions, Prime Minister Holness stated:
“A state that neglects its institutions risks not only its physical security but also the very foundation of a living and vibrant democracy. Robust institutions are the pillars upon which a stable and prosperous society is built. They ensure the rule of law, protect our citizens, and provide essential services that contribute to their well-being.”
Prime Minister Holness emphasized the critical role of investing in institutions to promote and protect democracy and independence. “Within the context of our independence, it is crucial to recognize the importance of investing in our institutions, which serve as the building blocks for our society. By doing so, we ensure the sustainability and stability of our nation,” he noted. “For many years, Jamaica did not invest sufficiently in the capacity and capabilities of the JDF and other critical institutions, leaving us vulnerable to various threats.”
In the meantime, against the backdrop of Jamaica’s independence, the Prime Minister honoured the legacy of Marcus Garvey, for whom the vessel is named. “Garvey’s teachings on self-determination and self-reliance resonate profoundly with our ongoing efforts to strengthen our institutions, empower our people, and uplift their social conditions,” he stated. “Throughout his activism, Marcus Garvey frequently used the phrase ‘One God, One Aim, One Destiny,’ emphasizing that to chart our own path, we must rely on helping ourselves rather than depending on others. As we commission HMJS Marcus Garvey, let us be guided by his legacy and the spirit of unity, determination, and resilience that defines us as a people.”
The vessel will bolster the JDF fleet and will be used to improve the monitoring and patrol activities to safeguard Jamaica’s coastline and deal with associated threats, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal fishing, and will play a critical role in ensuring border security by offering 24-hour presence within Jamaica’s maritime space.
The HMJS Marcus Garvey is a Damen 5009 vessel and equipped with advanced surveillance and interception capabilities.
It will operate as part of the 2nd District JDF Coast Guard fleet.