TRANSNATIONAL ORGANISED crime remains the most significant security threat facing the Caribbean region, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, reiterated during a recent public forum in Washington, DC. ANDERSON WAS addressing a forum hosted by Georgetown University’s Law Center under the theme “Jamaica’s Role in Regional Security: US–Jamaica Cooperation” on Thursday, February 5. “Transnational organised crime that manifests through violence is the most significant threat to the security of our nation and the region,” Ambassador Anderson stated. “For a long time, it has impacted all states in the region, including the United States. It is a business, and to sustain that business and its networks, those involved rely on violence or the threat of violence, undermining governance and exploiting borders in ways no single country can confront alone.” Referencing the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) 2023 Global Study on Homicide, Ambassador Anderson noted that the Caribbean records the highest homicide rates globally, with 50 per cent of all homicides linked to guns and gangs, compared to a global average of 24 per cent. SECURITY GAINS Drawing on his experience as Jamaica’s Commissioner of Police from 2018 to 2024, Ambassador Anderson highlighted Jamaica’s recent security gains. In 2025, Jamaica recorded its lowest homicide rate in over three decades, reflecting a 40 per cent reduction, or 24 per 100,000, following declines of 8 per cent in 2023 and 19 per cent in 2024. The downward trend has continued into 2026, with January recording a 55 per cent reduction, the lowest monthly figure since records began in 2001. “What you are seeing is the result of political focus, sustained strategies, and consistent investment in a security architecture tailored to our realities,”he explained. “We decided as a country to take ownership of our problem. No one is coming to fix it for us. Reform requires persistence, even through the difficult phases.” Ambassador Anderson underscored the importance of leadership and institutional reform, noting Jamaica’s efforts to modernise its security forces. “You must empower your own people. No one understands your circumstances better than you do. We undertook a transformation process to build a capable, modern police force, ISO 9001-certified in quality management, technology-driven, and supported by expansive intelligence capacity. Strong leadership and succession planning remain central to this progress.” While acknowledging Jamaica’s evolving security governance framework, the Ambassador emphasised the enduring partnership between Jamaica and the United States. “There is no question that the United States is the most powerful country in this hemisphere,” he said. “Jamaica has a longstanding relationship with the US and one of the strongest law enforcement cooperation arrangements in the region. That cooperation has disrupted major narcotics trafficking networks, strengthened information sharing, and enhanced operational interoperability. We were particularly encouraged by bipartisan support in addressing the flow of illegal firearms into the Caribbean, alongside Jamaica’s own legislative reforms to the Firearms Act.” Looking ahead, Anderson framed Jamaica’s security progress as a pathway toward sustainable peace. “Peaceful societies are not docile societies,” he observed. “They are societies where competition does not become conflict. The trends show we are moving toward safety, not just in reducing murder, but across all crime categories. The next stage is peace. Our challenge is to channel ambition and drive into productivity, development, and collective national progress as we pursue economic and political sovereignty.” In closing, Anderson issued a call to document and share Jamaica’s security model. “We must capture this experience,” he urged. “While some countries are trending in the wrong direction, they need not repeat the long route we have taken. Jamaica has always been willing to share, as demonstrated by our regional Training Centres of Excellence. What affects our neighbours affects us all, and our responsibility extends beyond our own shores.” THE MONTHLY GLEANER | FEBRUARY 12 - MARCH 14, 2026 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 3 Amb touts Ja security model, progress to peace Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States (US) Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson (right), discusses Jamaica’s role in regional security and US-Jamaica co-operation during a public forum organised by the George Town University Law faculty with moderator Director of Georgetown National Security Law Program, Todd Huntley, on the topic last Thursday at the Gewirz Student Center at the university in Washington D.C. PHOTO BY DERRICK SCOTT Transnational organised crime labelled Caribbean’s greatest security threat A member of the Mexican band, Out of Control Army, engages with the audience during a performance at the Bob Marley Tribute Concert held Friday, February 6 at Emancipation Park, Kingston. PHOTO BY NATHANIEL STEWART both the diaspora and Jamaica. “She facilitated and rallied medical support for so many individuals at home and abroad. She was instrumental in securing medication for many Jamaicans who found themselves stranded in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic and had run out of medication,” he recalled. Clarke said her passion for Jamaica was second to none. Educator Lawman Lynch described her as a true patriot whose leadership transformed the Jamaican diaspora. “As consul general, she brought energy, unity and purpose to our communities, inspiring many at home and abroad,” he said. Lynch said the late consul general worked tirelessly for Brand Jamaica and served with exceptional dedication. editorial@gleanerjm.com THE MONTHLY GLEANER | NOVEMBER 13 - DECEMBER 13, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 3 Lester Hinds/Gleaner Writer THE JAMAICAN diaspora has reacted with shock and disbelief at news that Jamaica’s Consul General to New York Alsion Roach-Wilson has died following her battle with breast cancer. ROACH-WILSON DIED at home in New Jersey in the early hours of Saturday morning, November 8. Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade, under whose portfolio RoachWilson served, announced her death in a Facebook post. In her post, the minister said she was saddened to announce the passing of the consul general. “Consul General Wilson served Jamaica at the highest level of excellence during her tenure from July 2019 to present. Her accomplishments defy the time during which she served with deep commitment to country, the Foreign Service and, indeed, to Jamaicans at home and abroad. Everyone who has worked with her or simply met her also knew unequivocally that she was also a warm and generous human being who exemplified professionalism, loyalty to country and friendship to the world,” said Johnson Smith. Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness said he was profoundly saddened by Roach Wilson’s passing. “Alsion was a devoted Jamaican whose love for her country was as deep as it was enduring. She dedicated her heart and soul to service to others, to strengthen the bonds between Jamaica and its diaspora and to ensuring that our nation’s voice was heard with pride and purpose on the world stage,” he said. The prime minister said Roach Wilson was a bridge between Jamaica and the United States (US), using her warmth, grace and influence to advance Jamaica’s interests with quiet power and steadfast commitment. “Beyond her official duties, Alsion was generous of spirit, supporting numerous charitable causes and giving selflessly to those in need,” the prime minister said. A WOMAN OF STRENGTH Jamaica’s ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, said he wished to express profound sorrow at the passing of the consul general. He said she was a woman of remarkable vision and strength. “She led with compassion, intellect and an unshakeable belief in Jamaica. I had the honour of working with her on matters of critical areas of national interest and she was a true patriot and a unifying force in the diaspora,” she said. Jamaica’s honorary consul in Philadelphia, Christopher Chaplin, expressed sadness and grief at her passing. “We were appointed in the same year – 2019, and we formed a deep respect for each other and a strong friendship over the years. She was a consummate professional. Her focus on relationships became clearly evident during the pandemic when she delivered laptops, tablets and many more resources to our country. She provided strong leadership and sage advice to us, and I always looked forward to our interaction,” he said. Michelle Tulloch-Neil, the Global Jamaica Diaspora council member for the US Northeast, said she was saddened by the passing of Roach Wilson. “Her leadership, compassion and unwavering dedication to the entire community will never be forgotten,” she said. Tulloch-Neil said Roach Wilson’s influence will continue to inspire “us all”. Former Jamaica Diaspora Board member Akeila Lawrence termed her death sad news and a major loss to the community. “I am deeply saddened by her passing. Consul General Wilson served Jamaica at the highest level of excellence,” she said. DEEPEST CONDOLENCES Dr Karren Dunkley, who served as the Global Jamaican Diaspora council member for the Northeast United States, said it was with a heavy heart that she extended her deepest condolences on the passing of Roach-Wilson. “Her departure is a profound loss to Jamaica and to those of us in the diaspora. During our working together, I witnessed firsthand her steadfast courage, deep empathy, and unwavering commitment to the Jamaican people. She stood firm, mobilising aid, advocating for Jamaicans abroad, and deepening the bridge between Jamaica and the diaspora,” said Dunkley. She said Roach Wilson believed in the power of service, the dignity of connection and the truth that Jamaica’s diaspora was not peripheral but absolutely central to the island’s development and global identity. Dr Robert Clarke, head of Help Jamaica Medical Mission and who served as her unofficial medical adviser, said Wilson was instrumental in organising countless medical missions to underserved areas of Jamaica. Clarke said Roach Wilson garnered medical support that was needed in ‘A profound loss’ Consul General Alsion Wilson with NYC Mayor Eric Adams at a flag raising ceremony to mark Jamaica’s 62nd anniversary of Independence. CONTRIBUTED Jamaican diaspora mourns Alsion Roach-Wilson, consul general to New York moya.thomas@gleanerjm.com Moya Thomas anthony.smith@gleanerjm.com Anthony Smith - Chief Executive Officer 2 Dave Rodney/Gleaner Writer NEW YORKERS woke last Monday morning to an alluring invitation from the Jamaica Tourist Board, urging tri-state residents to book now to travel to Jamaica Carnival in April 2026. The sizzling television segment that was broadcast on the New York Living morning show on PIX 11 was hosted by popular television personality Marysol. The segment was loaded with vibrant and exciting images of the sexy side of carnival in Jamaica, as well as iconic images of resort areas and breathtaking attractions across the island. The interviewee and spokesperson for Jamaica was Victoria Harper, district sales manager for the Jamaica Tourist Board (Northeastern USA) who did an excellent job in selling the multi-layered magnets that pull visitors to Jamaica year after year. “Jamaica Carnival is an explosion of colour, music and culture,” Harper, a former Miss Jamaica USA and Miss Jamaica World runner-up told New Yorkers. “It’s our biggest street party featuring soca music, reggae, elaborate costumes and the authentic Jamaica energy. What sets it apart is the combination of the now decades-old carnival tradition alongside Jamaica’s unique vibe, from our music to our food to our warm hospitality,” the JTB manager added. Since the event is still several months away, Marysol asked why it is necessary to book so early. “The early bird catches the worm,” Harper replied. “Booking now means significant savings with early-bird packages offering significant savings on event tickets, costumes, air and accommodations.” Those visiting for Jamaica Carnival are also urged to combine Kingston with other resort areas like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Port Antonio for a full-bodied extended stay so as to maximise the range of experiences that Jamaica has to offer. “The vibe is electric, the energy contagious, and the memories are everlasting,” Harper implored, with seductive flashes of cool, cascading waterfalls dancing across the television screen. Jamaica Carnival has rapidly evolved into one of the most dynamic cultural tourism events in the Caribbean. Earlier this year, the 2025 edition attracted over 52,000 participants and generated an estimated US$35 million during the peak week alone. For 2026, the prelude activities start as early as April 8 and the magnificent road march will take place on Sunday, April 12. Jamaica Carnival 2026 out the gates early with NY tv promotion WHEN HE responded last week to the Independent Fiscal Commission’s (IFC) warning that the government’s ongoing inability to meet its capital spending targets could weaken Jamaica’s growth prospects, Prime Minister Andrew Holness focused primarily on contractors who fail to deliver projects on time. “There are many issues that would cause the underutilisation of the capital budget,” Dr Holness said, “But, the one that is of interest to us is how contractors execute projects and the speed in which they execute projects … If they don’t perform, the budget cannot be expended and the growth of the country is slow.” His Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development (it was until recently growth and job creation) was addressing the problem by developing a programme to help domestic contractors build capacity, the prime minister said. Dr Holness is no doubt right about the shortcomings of contractors, and how their weaknesses contribute to the slow execution of projects. But, as he intimated, this isn’t the whole story. It is questionable that it is even the major one. There are great shortcomings, too, in the government’s procurement architecture. This is not only in oversight rigidities, against which public officials often complain, and some of which the government sought to remedy with recent amendments to the Public Procurement Act. But a larger, and more pressing issue, as this newspaper has raised before, is the numbers, and quality of the personnel, who are asked to annually manage and monitor scores of billions of dollars of procurement, utilising various bidding/sourcing regimes and contracting schemes. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE This requires – or ought to – the highest level professional competence, and sufficient staff, so that it is done with the highest level of professionalism, and in a timely manner, to protect taxpayers’ interest and deliver on national priorities. In other words, the expertise required by public servants to manage bids to spend huge amounts of money should be no less than would be expected in the private sector. The anecdotal evidence suggests that despite improvements in recent times, significant deficits remain. The IFC, which became operational in January, reviews, and reports on, the government’s fiscal operations, to determine whether it is on track to lower, and maintain, Jamaica’s debt to no more than 60 per cent GDP, as set out in law. That target is likely to be met by the end of the current fiscal year, two years ahead of schedule. In its review for the first quarter (April to June) of the 2025/2026 fiscal year, the commission repeated a concern it raised in January in its report for the third quarter of the 2024/25 fiscal year: of under-spending on capital projects and the potential consequences thereof. The IFC noted that in the 2024/25 fiscal year, self-financing public bodies (some of which oversee major public sector infrastructure/development projects, generated an overall surplus of $88.9 billion, or 2.5 per cent of GDP. This was 158.4 per cent ($34.4) billion above the original target. The much larger surplus was mainly the result of these bodies underspending on capital projects by $49.1 billion. SLOW EXECUTION The slow execution of capital projects continued in the new fiscal year, lagging across central government and public bodies between April and June by $20.4 billion, a shortfall of 50.37 per cent on the projected spend. Given this “underwhelming” pace of execution, and the evidence of previous years, it seems unlikely that the total capital budget of $163.8 billion will be spent by the end of next March. “The IFC notes that the underspending does not represent true savings, but rather a delay or slowness in the pace of execution of projects and programmes,” the agency said. “This is of considerable concern particularly with regard to capital projects amid the adverse implications for economic growth.” While contractor inefficiencies contribute to the failures, a significant constraint is the slow pace at which projects get off the ground, from conceptualisation to procurement. That, in part, is the outcome of layers of bureaucracy, which have grown to close loopholes which were exploited by corrupt officials. The Gleaner supports recent moves to rid the system of some of the in-built inertia – but not at the expense of accountability and protection of taxpayers’ resources. Among the answers to such legitimate concerns, as we suggested nearly a year and a half ago, is the development of a cadre of highly trained, certified, accredited and decently paid procurement professionals. In other words, the government should attract the best talent to what should be seen as a prized, specialist profession. Clear career paths should be developed in the public sector for this group. This means that the government must cooperate with universities and other institutions on specialised training, as well as continuing education programmes for procurement specialists. Need: procurement specialists THE WEEKLY GLEANER | OCTOBER 16 - NOVEMBER 13, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS EDITORIAL
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