Holness calls for resilience amid global challenges

Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the celebration of the nation’s 62nd anniversary of independence brings into sharp focus the new path that must be charted in navigating global challenges, specifically those caused by climate change.

“It is important that the conversation about Jamaica’s future – what we are going to do and who we are as a people – takes into account that we are now living in a different era and that the way in which we have conducted our business, conducted ourselves, conducted our culture has to be different. It has to take into account the need for resilience,” he contended.

Jamaica will, on August 6, will mark 62 years since Jamaica gained political independence from Britain. This year’s Independence is being celebrated under the theme: ‘Jamaica 62 One Love to the World.’

Holness, who was addressing the Governor General’s Independence Reception and Exhibition at King’s House last Thursday, said that as the country moves into a new phase of human existence, the nation must utilise its global cultural dominance to craft new behaviours that will help the country build resilience.

Noting the serious environmental, fiscal, and economic impacts of climate change which, he emphasised, can cause frequent, multiple and overlapping crises, Prime Minister Holness said these are matters that must be addressed and must motivate behaviour change to adapt to these events.

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, who hosted the reception, said that the achievement of 62 years of independence is a significant milestone in the nation’s history.

“Our country has grown and evolved as a beacon of resilience throughout the region and even if I might say so, the world at large,” he pointed out.

The governor general said that Jamaica’s journey, which has been marked by many outstanding achievements, bears testament to the spirit of the Jamaican people.

He highlighted the importance of strengthening relationships with international partners to address challenges.

“This evening, we begin the celebration of our independence buttressed by the strong bonds we share with our friends and allies across the globe. These friends and allies have supported us through our growth and development. As we look to the future, let us focus on strengthening these relationships and work collectively towards a more prosperous and harmonious nation and, by extension, the world,” he added.

The reception, which was attended by ministers of government, members of the diplomatic corps, leaders of the public and private sectors and civil society, among others, included a display of artefacts uncovered at Port Royal, independence memorabilia, storyboards, images and videos highlighting the country’s accomplishments.