Washington D.C. February 10, 2026. 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 at a public forum in Washington, D.C. Ambassador Anderson was addressing a forum hosted by Georgetown University’s Law Center under the theme “Jamaica’s Role in Regional Security: U.S.–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. 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 U.S. 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, Ambassador 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, Ambassador 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.”

Anderson looks forward to ‘deepening relations’ with OAS member states

A section of the large congregation of Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica lift their voices in song, at last year’s Jamaica Independence Thanksgiving Service, held at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, in Takoma Park, Maryland.

The new Jamaican Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, arrives at the Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, May 28. He is flanked by, from left, Ms. Delita McCallum, Alternate Representative of Jamaica to the OAS; Ms. Nan Kenkelly, United states State Department Assistant Chief of Protocol; and Ms. Lishann Salmon, Chargé d’Affaires for the Embassy of Jamaica.

The Full Story The weekend’s activities commenced on August 2 in Miramar, with the Ambassador attending the city’s annual ‘Ole Time Fair’, hosted by Mayor Wayne Messam. The event offered a vibrant display of Jamaican culture, heritage, and civic pride. Activities were held under the leadership of Consul General in Miami, Oliver Mair, in collaboration with various diaspora organisations. Addressing a crowd that reflected the city’s deeply rooted Caribbean identity, Ambassador Anderson noted that Miramar has become one of the most vibrant centres of Jamaican and Caribbean life in the US. With more than 30 per cent of Miramar’s population claiming Jamaican heritage, the Ambassador highlighted the city as a model of diasporic success, describing it as “a blend of enterprise, pride, and unity”.He emphasised the importance of channelling cultural pride into meaningful engagement. “As Ambassador, I am deeply encouraged by the strength of the diaspora here, not only in numbers but in heart, in culture, and in your commitment to giving back to Jamaica,” he said. “While you have made Miramar your place of residence, Jamaica remains your home no matter how long you’ve been away or how far you’ve gone,” he added. The visit included a domino tournament in tribute to the late Gordon “Butch” Stewart, founder of Sandals Resorts, and was highlighted by Mayor Messam presenting the key to the city to reggae icon Freddie McGregor. Saturday’s events concluded with a ‘Sweet and Dandy Dance Party’ hosted by the Jamaican Women of Florida, a fundraiser supporting charitable causes in both Jamaica and Florida. On Sunday, Jamaicans gathered at a thanksgiving service held at the Cooper City Church of God. The function drew more than 900 attendees attired in the black, green and gold of Jamaica, transforming the sanctuary into a tapestry of national pride. The Ambassador, in his address to the congregation, said that the Independence theme, ‘Be Proud. Be Bold. In the Black, Green and Gold’, “calls upon us all, as Jamaicans, to have an unwavering belief that we can and should be active participants and not just bystanders in shaping our own destinies, the destinies of our communities and the destinies of our countries. It calls us to a mindset that our forefathers had as they moved Jamaica towards independence”. The Ambassador used the platform to reiterate the key development priorities of the Government of Jamaica, including the modernisation of business processes, constitutional reform, national and citizen security, and transformation in education, noting the critical role of the diaspora in national progress. The weekend concluded with the Jamaica Independence motorcade, led by Ambassador Anderson and Consul General Mair, which wound through streets lined with cheering supporters before arriving at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. There, Mayor Denise Grant hosted the “Solid as a Rock” concert, featuring Jamaican artists in a vibrant celebration of resilience and cultural pride. During a flag-raising ceremony in Lauderhill, Commissioner Anderson spoke about the importance of the colours of the flag, noting that “Black is for the strength and creativity of our people, Green for the hope and fertility of our land, and Gold is for the natural beauty and enduring sunlight of our homeland”. “It celebrates the resilience, creativity, and indomitable spirit of a people who continue to inspire the world,” he said. “Let this Independence Day celebration be more than a moment of remembrance. Let it be a recommitment to service, to unity,

The Full Story More than 600 members of the Diaspora and friends of Jamaica gathered in New York City on August 23 for a grand celebration of the island’s 63rd anniversary of Independence. This year’s gala, promoted as the Diaspora’s largest fundraiser to date, raised funds for scholarships and charitable causes in Jamaica while honouring eight outstanding Jamaicans for their exceptional contributions. The Marriott Marquis ballroom in Manhattan was alive with purpose, as guests rallied behind an ambitious mission to generate substantial support for scholarships and other charitable endeavours in Jamaica. The proceeds will support final-year tertiary students at the University of Technology, University of the West Indies (Mona), Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College, and the College of Agriculture, Science and Education, as well as charities including the Jamaica Cancer Society, the Rita Marley Foundation Centre for Girls, and the Rose Town Foundation. Hosted by the Consulate-General of Jamaica in New York, the gala carried the theme ‘Party with a Purpose’. As Consul General, Alsion Wilson noted, the phrase was “more than a tagline—it is a statement of mission to channel the spirit of Jamaican Independence into tangible support for vital initiatives.” Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (ret’d) Antony Anderson, urged members of the Diaspora to treat independence as a call to stewardship. “Independence was never meant to be an end-point, it is a call to stewardship. May we commit ourselves anew to the unfinished work of independence: creating opportunities for the next generation, lifting our communities, and showing the world that Jamaica’s best days are still ahead,” he stated. Reiterating this year’s Independence theme, Ambassador Anderson declared that, “to be Jamaican is to be bold, to be proud, and to walk tall in the Black, Green, and Gold.” He additionally highlighted the global impact of Jamaica’s culture and people. “Our athletes dominate the tracks. Our music moves the conscience of nations. Our food is savoured on every continent. Our culture is studied in universities. Our voices are heard in the corridors of diplomacy,” Ambassador Anderson stated. He also applauded the honourees at the gala. They included: Reggae icon, Alfarita “Rita” Marley – Life Time Achievement Award ; Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International and the ATL Group – Business Leadership Award; Patricia ‘Miss Pat’ Chin – Lifetime Achievement Award; Reggae music pioneer and VP Records co-founder, James Alston –Community Development and Philanthropy Award; Henry ‘Larry’ Duffus – Entrepreneurship Award; Gregory Fisher – National Development Award; Dr. Anthony E. Munroe – Educational Leadership Award; and Audrey Tugwell Henry – President and Chief Executive Officer of Scotia Jamaica Group – Business Leadership Award. The awardees represent different models of Diaspora engagement, from Marley’s cultural ambassadorship to Fisher’s financial leadership to Munroe’s educational development. Their collective example suggests that effective Diaspora contribution requires sustained commitment rather than occasional charitable gestures. Their achievements demonstrate that Jamaica’s global influence stems not from government strategy, but from individual excellence that creates positive associations with Jamaican identity. When international audiences encounter Jamaican professionals excelling in diverse fields, they develop respect for Jamaica’s capabilities that transcends stereotypes or limitations. The Independence Gala’s honorees represent just the visible portion of a much larger phenomenon: Jamaican success stories that continue extending the nation’s influence through achievement rather than rhetoric. The calibre of attendees underscored the gala’s significance. Distinguished guests included: Jamaica’s envoy to Cuba, Ambassador Franz Hall; Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Ambassador Brian Wallace; former U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica, Brenda LaGrange Johnson; U.S. Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke; Mayor Elsie Foster-Dublin of Highland Park, New Jersey, and business leader, Michele Rollins, Chair of Rollins Jamaica Limited. The evening was not only about philanthropy, but also culture and joy. Entertainment featured Nadine Sutherland, backed by Derrick Barnett and the Statement Band, with Road International featuring DJ Roy keeping the dance floor alive well into the early morning. The night’s highlight was a performance by Donisha Prendergast, granddaughter of late Reggae legend, Bob Marley, which brought the ballroom to life. The 2025 Independence Gala demonstrated that Diaspora celebrations can transcend festivity. With record fundraising, a powerful showcase of Jamaican achievement, and deepened networks of influence, the ‘Party with a Purpose’ proved that Jamaica’s Independence is not only a commemoration—it is an ongoing project of nation-building carried forward by Jamaicans everywhere.

The Full Story The Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Adopt-a-Clinic Programme recently received a renewed boost with the announcement by President of the RalRosa Foundation, Dr. Jacqueline Watson, that her organisation would extend its adoption of the Golden Spring Health Centre in St. Andrew for an additional three years. Speaking during a reception hosted by the Foundation in honour of Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (ret’d) Antony Anderson, at the organisation’s headquarters in Georgetown, Washington DC, on October 1, Dr. Watson noted that the initial three-year adoption of the Golden Spring Type II Health Centre was scheduled to conclude in September. She advised the audience, which included Health and Wellness Minister, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, that over the three-year period, the RalRosa Foundation had invested approximately $3 million, alongside the provision of medical and diagnostic equipment valued at more than $2 million. “Our parents would be extremely proud, but not surprised, by our decision to adopt the clinic, as it demonstrates the lessons that they taught us during our childhood,” Dr. Watson said. In response, Dr. Tufton expressed his appreciation for the RalRosa Foundation’s decision to extend its adoption of the Golden Spring Clinic for an additional three years, commending the organisation for its steadfast commitment to the Adopt-a-Clinic Programme. “This is a strategic programme that seeks to proactively leverage the philanthropic support of the private sector and diaspora to play a more critical role in improving the primary healthcare system,” the Minister pointed out. Ambassador Anderson also offered high praise for the RalRosa Foundation, noting that through the generous support of individuals like those present, the organisation has made meaningful strides in enhancing healthcare delivery across Jamaica. “I commend the Watson family for their ceaseless work. Jacqui, Kim, Richard, and the younger generation of Watsons, thank you for the work you do. Every dollar we raise, every pledge you make, brings us closer to a Jamaica where quality healthcare is accessible to all. “Let us rise above the challenges, let us extend a helping hand to those in need, and let us leave a legacy of compassion and care. Together, we can create a brighter future where quality healthcare and prosperity are a reality for all,” the Ambassador said. The Golden Spring Health Centre currently maintains a patient registration of more than 86,000 individuals. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including maternal and child health, curative care, family planning, and mental health support. The facility is the 47th of 100 health centres that have been adopted since the Adopt-a-Clinic programme started in 2017. Of the 59 clinics adopted, 37 have been supported by the Jamaican Diaspora, reflecting a collective commitment of $100 million. All 14 parishes have benefited from the initiative.

The Full Story Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams, is in Washington DC this week attending the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, which convene Ministers of Finance, Central Bank Governors, and senior government officials from around the world. The meetings, which commenced on Monday, October 13, are scheduled to conclude on Saturday, October 17. The Minister has been accompanied by Financial Secretary, Darlene Morrison, and Deputy Financial Secretary, Dian Black; Governor of the Bank of Jamaica, Richard Byles, and Senior Deputy Governor, Dr. Wayne Robinson, as well as Director General of the Planning Institute of Jamaica, Dr. Wayne Henry. Mrs. Williams emphasised that while in Washington, the focus remains on sustained engagement with international financial institutions, including the IMF and the World Bank, both of which have been instrumental in supporting Jamaica’s progress. “Jamaica has a lot of ongoing projects with the World Bank and IMF, which [we] will be discussing, as well as exploring new initiatives and opportunities that would redound to the benefit of Jamaica,” she stated. In the margins of the IMF and World Bank meetings, Minister Williams will engage in discussions with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), to which the Government of Jamaica is a signatory. Afreximbank has allocated development funds in support of CARICOM Member States. Jamaica’s accession unlocked US$1.5 billion in financing support, elevating Afreximbank’s total commitment to the Caribbean region to an impressive US$3 billion. Mrs. Williams will also hold discussions with President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Ilan Goldfajn; Alternate Executive Director of the IMF, Gina Fitzgerald; and Regional Vice President of the World Bank, Susana Cordeiro-Guerra. During a courtesy call on Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, at the Jamaican Embassy on Monday, October 13, Minister Williams was apprised of several potential investment opportunities being pursued in support of the Government’s growth agenda. These span the sectors of energy, medicine, medical tourism, and telecommunications and include initiatives to encourage greater diaspora investment in their homeland. Ambassador Anderson noted that several opportunities are available to members of the diaspora, “which we have been [actively] promoting from the Embassy, for them to take advantage of”. Mrs. Williams commended Ambassador Anderson for his efforts during his first five months in office and expressed confidence that Jamaica would benefit meaningfully from the promising opportunities being pursued. During the week-long IMF/World Bank Meetings, the Minister and her delegation will also be supported by Ambassador Anderson and Minister-Counsellor with responsibility for Trade and Economic Affairs at the Embassy, Aliecia Taylor.

The Full Story Jamaicans in the United States (US) and friends of the island have contributed relief supplies valued at approximately US$30,000 to the island. The items, to benefit residents severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, were transported to the island via Southwest Airlines on November 8. The donation was a collaborative effort involving the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington DC, the Montgomery County Council, Southwest Airlines and members of the Jamaican diaspora across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV). Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States (US), His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson (second right) along with (from left) Community Relations Officer at the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington DC, Emile Wallace-Waddell (left), hand over relief supplies to Southwest Airlines representatives Joe Lastner (second left) and David Richardson, at the cargo department at the Baltimore International Airport. The first shipment of relief supplies, donated by Jamaicans in the US and friends of Jamaica, was shipped to the island via Southwest Airlines on November 8. Jamaica’s Ambassador to the US, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, commended Southwest Airlines and the Montgomery County Council for their partnership, and praised the spirit of unity demonstrated by the Jamaican community and friends of Jamaica across the US. “This shipment consists of supplies for those severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The Government and people of Jamaica are deeply grateful for the support and interest shown by the diaspora and the wider American community,” Ambassador Anderson said. He expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone, who contributed to the relief effort, noting that each donation, whether large or small, represents an act of solidarity and compassion that continues to strengthen the ties between Jamaica and its global family. The Ambassador noted that coordination was led by the Embassy with the assistance of more than 40 volunteers, who worked tirelessly to ensure the successful dispatch of the supplies. Volunteers included students from Howard University, Georgetown University, the University of the District of Columbia, members of the RalRosa Foundation, compatriots from the Caribbean, other friends of Jamaica and members of the diaspora. Ambassador Anderson noted that the shipment was the first of several planned for the island, and urged persons to continue to support Jamaica’s relief and recovery efforts. “There are 18 drop-off locations in the DMV, with the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, serving as the main sorting hub,” he informed. More than 100 additional drop-off locations remain open across the US, and individuals are encouraged to continue supporting the relief effort. Coordination is ongoing to maintain the flow of shipments.

The Full Story Ambassador to the United States (US), His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has called on Jamaica Howard University Affinity Network (JHUAN) scholarship award recipients to embrace technological advancement and remain adaptable in an evolving global environment. “I want to see you riding that wave of technology and not being swamped by it,” he said. “Be confident that we can manage change, that we can do great things going forward and that, generationally, we will remain forever Jamaican stars at whatever we do,” he added. Ambassador Anderson was addressing JHUAN’s seventh annual HUes of Blue fundraising reception held on Saturday (September 13), at his residence in Maryland. Twenty-six students of Jamaican heritage attending Howard University were awarded scholarships totalling US$107,000. Each recipient received US$4,000 to assist with educational expenses. The annual scholarship is awarded to students of Jamaican birth or parentage, with a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher and are enrolled full time at Howard University. Ambassador Anderson congratulated the scholarship recipients and urged them to “pay it forward” by contributing to JHUAN once they achieve professional success, thereby sustaining the cycle of opportunity and empowerment. He said that JHUAN “has been a beacon of hope and a pillar of pride for the recipients of this unique scholarship programme,” noting that the organisation’s mission extends beyond financial assistance to include mentorship, life coaching, and career development opportunities. JHUAN President, Don Christian, who also serves on the Howard University Board of Trustees, said the scholarship programme exists to “inspire our students to dream more, learn more, and become more”. “As an alumnus who has benefited greatly from Howard University, it is important that we look for ways to support our academic institutions and pay it forward,” he pointed out. The JHUAN operates as a community-driven organisation dedicated to supporting Jamaican students at Howard University through financial aid, mentorship, and professional development. Its flagship HUes of Blue event serve as the primary fundraising initiative, uniting members of the diaspora, business leaders, and diplomatic officials in support of Caribbean educational excellence in the US. Since its establishment in 2018, JHUAN has disbursed 115 scholarships valued at US$463,000, providing vital financial support to Jamaican students at Howard. This year alone, scholarship applications rose by 75 per cent, while fundraising has grown at an average rate of 39 per cent annually. The evening’s fundraiser included a US$100,000 donation from Howard alumna and entrepreneur Lisa Brown Alexander, with an additional US$100,000 for the scholarship fund. The evening’s programme included the presentation of the Bancroft S. Gordon Scholarship Award established in honour of the late Howard alumnus and former football player, to Bamidele Aina and Bleyne Montaque. The award recognises outstanding achievement in athletics, academics, leadership, and community engagement. IMPACT Awards were also presented to distinguished Howard alumni –independent director for Compass Group PLC, Arlene Isaacs-Lowe; and former Chief Executive Officer of NCB Capital Markets, Christopher Williams.

The Full Story The colours of black, green and gold adorned the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday (July 27), as scores of Jamaicans and friends of the island gathered in thanksgiving for Jamaica’s 63rd year of independence. Ambassador to the United States (US), His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, headed the list of dignitaries, which included representatives from the diplomatic corps, local, state, and federal government officials along with heads of various diaspora organisations, who joined the more than 400 worshippers in attendance. Ambassador Anderson in his address to the attendees, who were donned in the national colours, said that this year’s theme, ‘Be Proud. Be Bold in the Black, Green, and Gold’, represents the deep meaning of Jamaica’s cultural identity and its brand. Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, addresses the service of thanksgiving to mark Jamaica’s 63rd year of Independence, held at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 27 “I feel blessed that I can call myself a Jamaican. The Jamaican brand is a strong brand in the world. It’s strong because of our global diaspora and, significantly, the influence and action of the diaspora in the United States, which helps to define how people see and know brand Jamaica,” he noted. “We are here to celebrate a significant milestone – 63 years since Jamaica gained its Independence. The black speaks to the strength and creativity that have sustained us through both triumphs and adversity; the green reflects the hope and abundance of our beautiful land; and the gold captures the warmth of our sunshine and the richness of our spirit as a nation,” he pointed out. “As we gather in this place of worship, whether Jamaican or friend of Jamaica, we are reminded that these colours don’t just fly on Independence Day; they live in us, every day. They show up in our hard work, in our faith, in our laughter, and in the way we support one another, whether in Kingston, Clarendon, or right here in Maryland, DC, and Virginia,” the Ambassador said. He lauded the diaspora community for continuing to uplift Jamaica’s good name across the globe. “You serve in classrooms and boardrooms, in hospitals and halls of government. You carry our culture through music, food, fashion, and family values. You give back, whether through remittances, charitable work, or simply by being shining examples of what it means to be Jamaican,” he noted. The Ambassador reiterated his commitment to building strong ties between the US and Jamaica. “I had the honour, just this week, of presenting my credentials to the US President, which places me in a position to better serve the interests of Jamaica and the diaspora. In this role I will seek to build stronger bonds with the United States of America,” he pledged. Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, engages with 93-year-old Glenda Clanston, who hails from St. Elizabeth, during the service of thanksgiving to mark Jamaica’s 63rd year of Independence, held at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 27 The Ambassador highlighted the country’s buoyant investment climate, pointing to myriad prospects, and urged the diaspora to grasp these opportunities. “Jamaica is experiencing good things in many sectors. We are in a good position to receive investments and a good place to be a pillar of support to achieve great things together here as Jamaicans in the United States. I am really looking forward to engaging and getting those bonds as strong as possible,” he said. Ambassador Anderson read the message from Prime Minister, Dr. the Most. Hon. Andrew Holness. Associate Minister of the Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ, Rev. Sylvia McDonald Kaufman, delivered the sermon, while the service was moderated by Dr Bertram L. Melbourne, a Jamaica-born professor of New Testament studies and a former associate and interim dean of Howard University School of Divinity. The service was highlighted by the presentation of the DMV Jamaica Diaspora Awards. The recipients are Hopkins University Professor Emeritus Dr Franklyn W. Knight, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Esther Sanderson, the Individual Award; Marguerite Chinn/Negril Eatery – Institution/Organisation Award; and Elda Devarie/EMD Sales, the Friend of Jamaica Award. The offering collected this year will be donated to support the Hanover Infirmary in Jamaica.