One Minute Reads: News from across Jamaica

Holness urges Jamaicans to embrace AI

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness says Jamaica must embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology, as it prepares for a "cyber-physical world", in which cyber technology and the physical world intersect.

Holness was speaking at the Amber Group's 10th Anniversary Celebration & AI Robotics Showcase, held at the AC Hotel in Kingston on Tuesday. He pointed out that the world is now experiencing a fourth industrial revolution where "technology and machines are working together" to deliver services in an independent way. He acknowledged the potential impact of this innovative technology on jobs in the business process outsourcing and other industries. Holness emphasised that the solution is not to hide from or be fearful of the technology.

"The solution is for us to use the technology to increase the level of training and skills in our society, so that our people can take on higher-order tasks, which bring higher-order pay," he argued. Holness said there is a level of underemployment in the society, and for Government to treat with it rapidly and at scale, it must embrace technology.

MoBay Perimeter Road project 80 per cent complete

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development with responsibility for Works, Robert Morgan, says work on the Montego Bay Perimeter Road project in St James is 80 per cent complete.

"We have also started the Long Hill Bypass, where work is going on in earnest," he said. He also informed that the perimeter road component of the project is slated for completion by May 2026.

Helmed by the National Road Operating and Constructing Company and executed by China Harbour Engineering Company, the $55.6-billion project includes the 15-kilometre Montego Bay Bypass, the 11-kilometre Long Hill Bypass, upgrades to Barnett Street and West Green Avenue, and construction of a 180-metre bridge over the Montego River. When completed, the bridge will be the longest and tallest four-lane structure in Jamaica.

4.3 million visitors expected this year

Jamaica is projecting to welcome 4.3 million visitors for 2025, which is expected to generate US$4.6 billion (approximately J$735.2 billion) in revenues.

Providing an update on the sector during Tuesday's sitting of the House of Representatives, Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, said the 4.3 million visitor arrivals projection would be a 2.7 per cent increase over 2024, with the projected US$4.6 billion, representing 7.1 per cent growth year-on-year. He indicated that for the upcoming winter 2025/26 season, stopover arrivals are expected to increase by 6.9 per cent, cruise arrivals by 24.3 per cent and gross earnings by eight per cent, reaching US$1.7 billion. Bartlett said the sector's performance puts Jamaica on track to achieve five million visitors and US$5 billion in earnings within five years as well as increase its projected targets.

"Our marketing focus is expanding beyond traditional markets to embrace new frontiers in Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, supported by enhanced airlift, digital innovation, and strategic partnerships that ensure Jamaica remains top of mind for global travellers," Bartlett said. He pointed out that the Caribbean welcomed more than 32 million visitors in the first half of 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Inmates to show off craftsmanship at expo

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) will commemorate its 50th anniversary with a two-day Corrections Expo and Recruitment Drive, scheduled for October 17 to 18 at the National Arena.

The event, which is free to the public, will commence daily at 10 a.m. and will highlight the evolution and impact of Jamaica's correctional services over the past 50 years. The expo will showcase a diverse slate of activities aimed at engaging, educating, and inspiring attendees. Key highlights include interactive exhibits and tactical demonstrations that provide an inside look at the operations of the DCS.

As part of its rehabilitation and skills training programmes, the DCS will also offer patrons the opportunity to purchase high-quality furniture, clothing, and household items crafted by inmates. The event will also feature an on-site farmers' market offering fresh produce and locally made goods, alongside recruitment booths providing information for individuals interested in joining the correctional services.