Prime Minister Holness: We Are Ending Absolute Poverty
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has declared that the Government is within reach of achieving what once seemed like an impossible dream, the complete eradication of absolute poverty in Jamaica.
Referencing the recent decline in the national poverty rate to 8.2%, Prime Minister Holness expressed that Jamaica is now ‘within striking distance’ of ending absolute poverty.
“This is not just a slogan or a political soundbite. It is a measurable, data-driven goal that we are actively pursuing with care and precision,” the Prime Minister said.
Absolute poverty is defined by the inability to meet the most basic human needs, such as food, shelter, education, and healthcare. The Prime Minister emphasized that under this administration, there has been significant progress across all these dimensions.
“We have increased the minimum wage, boosted employment, expanded PATH and social pension programmes, and invested heavily in education and skills training, all of which directly target the roots of poverty.”
While acknowledging the work ahead, Prime Minister Holness affirmed that the vision is clear:
“We are building a Jamaica where no one is left behind. Where poverty is not inherited but defeated.”