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Prime Minister Holness Marks Jamaica’s Progress as Poverty Drops Amid Global Uncertainty


Prime Minister Holness Marks Jamaica’s Progress as Poverty Drops Amid Global Uncertainty

Amidst global economic challenges, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said Jamaica has emerged as a model of resilience and recovery, recording a 50% reduction in our national poverty rate between 2021 and 2023.

Prime Minister Holness addressed the nation on the historic milestone, underscoring the significance of this progress in a time of international hardship.

“We live in a world where poverty is rising in many regions, where post-pandemic recovery has stalled, and where inflation continues to stretch household incomes. Yet here in Jamaica, we have made real progress. We have protected our people and grown our economy. We have proven that good governance and strong leadership make a difference,” the Prime Minister noted.

Prime Minister Holness also credited the coordinated efforts of government ministries, agencies, and community organizations who have worked to expand training, improve access to jobs, and widen the social safety network.

“This is a collective achievement. It belongs to the hard-working people of Jamaica who showed up, leaned in, and believed that better was possible. Our responsibility now is to protect these gains, deepen our efforts, and ensure that no one is left behind,” said the Prime Minister.