Jamaica Secures Second EU Funding Disbursement for Digital Transitioning Programme

  • Jamaica has received the second disbursement of funds from the European Union (EU) to support the implementation of the Digital Transitioning Programme for Jamaica (Digital Jamaica). This latest handover brings total disbursements under the Programme to J$613.5Mn(€3.41Mn), to date.
  • The Programme supports the implementation of Jamaica’s National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Policy and aims to expand inclusive access to and use of ICT, in pursuit of the country’s goal of becoming a digital economy and society.
  • The financing agreement was finalised on July 25, 2023, for implementation over 48 months, totalling J$1.7Bn(€9.5Mn). It is being executed under the budget support modality and comprises three fixed tranches and three variable tranches. Speaking during a Handover Ceremony at the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service in Kingston on Thursday (May 21), State Minister Hon. Zavia Mayne emphasised that digital transformation is vital to national competitiveness, economic resilience, and social inclusion.
  • Mr. Mayne outlined that the Programme comprises three components, focusing on ICT connectivity, digital skills in education, and the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
  • He further noted that the final component supports the digital transformation of MSMEs through the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and its network of small business development centres. “MSMEs will receive support and training to improve digitisation, digitalisation and the adoption of new technologies. This is essentially important for improving productivity, innovation and business competitiveness,” Mr. Mayne stated
  • He emphasised that, collectively, the Programme will enhance broadband connectivity, strengthen digital learning, build digital competencies among educators, and support greater technology adoption by Jamaican businesses, while creating meaningful opportunities for citizens to participate in the digital economy.
  • The Digital Jamaica Programme supports the implementation of the National ICT Policy across the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information; the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce; and the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications.

(Source: JIS)