Caption: Minister of State with responsibility for Diaspora Affairs, the Honourable Analdo Terrelonge, was keynote speaker at the UK Jamaica Diaspora Regional Conference held under the theme “Legacy Beyond Jamaica,” at the University of Brunel, London on Saturday, June 24.
(MFA&FT: June 26, 2023)
Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the Honourable Alando Terrelonge, delivered his address to the Jamaican Diaspora in the United Kingdom (UK), recognizing their remarkable contributions to Jamaica’s development and their active involvement in issues affecting their new homeland. Speaking at the UK Jamaica Diaspora Regional Conference, held at the University of Brunel, London, under the theme: – “Legacy Beyond Jamaica,” Minister Terrelonge reiterated the government’s commitment to engaging with the Diaspora.
In his address, Minister Terrelonge expressed deep appreciation for the invaluable contributions made by Jamaicans around the world to both international affairs and Jamaica’s own national development. The Government of Jamaica (GoJ) regards the Diaspora as a crucial stakeholder in realizing the country’s long-term strategic development plan, Vision 2030.
Praising the Jamaican Diaspora in the UK for their advocacy on the Windrush issue, the State Minister stated, “Your collective activism brought about the necessary changes that compelled the UK Home Office to take corrective measures. I commend your resilience and indomitable spirit, which embody the essence of our Jamaican identity, regardless of our place of residence.”
Terrelonge also updated conference attendees on the discussions held recently in Jamaica during the 11th UK-Caribbean Forum and the inaugural Jamaica-UK Strategic Dialogue, where migration and the Windrush matter were key topics of conversation. He also emphasized the importance of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC) and the Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council (GJDYC) in implementing the National Diaspora Policy. The Minister acknowledged the valuable contributions of UK Council Members Dr. Kevin Brown (GJDC: UK North), Mr. Nathaniel Peat (GJDC: UK South), Ms. Shermara Fletcher (GJDYC: UK North), and Ms. Thara Johnson Reid (GJDYC: UK South).
Providing an update on Jamaica’s economic progress, Minister Terrelonge underscored the estimated economic growth of 4.3% for 2022/2023 and the country’s strides in digital transformation. He stressed the advancements made in tackling crime through capacity building in the security sector, constitutional reform and investment opportunities in Jamaica.
In closing, Minister Terrelonge reiterated the Government of Jamaica’s unwavering commitment to engaging with the Diaspora, acknowledging their critical role as “a vocal force and active participant in Jamaica’s development.” He emphasized the need for continued collaboration to empower the Diaspora and build a lasting “Legacy Beyond Jamaica.”
