Jamaicans overseas urged to look for investment opportunities
MIAMI - Jamaica's Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Audley Shaw, has urged members of the Diaspora to look for investment opportunities in overseas markets to meet unfilled demands for Jamaican food products.
The Finance Minister was the guest speaker at the annual Independence worship service at the Kendall Community Church of God held on Sunday (July 26) in Miami.
Minister Shaw said that nationals overseas have a crucial role to play in the island's efforts to recover from the effects of the global recession. "We have a unique opportunity to grasp victory and success out of crisis," he stated.
Hon. Audley Shaw
Jamaicans, he said, are a resilient people, noting accomplishments in sports, entertainment, academia, corporate leadership and public service.
Giving an update on the state of the Jamaican economy, he said that steps were being taken towards revitalization, pointing to plans to return downtown Kingston to a major financial center. He said that like most major cities, Kingston should be allowed to shine as a hub for investment and transaction.
In addressing the Government's decision to re-engage the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Minister Shaw said that a submission was now before Cabinet and following an approval process, a serious restructuring of the economy would take place with efforts to reform the public sector and practice good governance.
In the meantime, he lauded the strong display of talent through the performances at the function.
In addition to a performance from veteran reggae singer Dobby Dobson, the evening's entertainment package featured song and dance presentations from the church's children's choir, youth dance group, soloists, as well as the joint choir of Kendall Church and the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida (JNAF).
An offering was collected, proceeds of which will benefit two Jamaican organisations - the Buff Bay High School in Portland and Tgwein House for Disabled Children.
In his message titled: 'Doing Good Together', Senior Pastor at the Kendall Church, Dr. Michael Curry, challenged Jamaicans to become more united as they remain connected to their strong sense of faith and godliness in an effort to make strides for economic recovery and nation-building.
Jamaican Consul General in Miami, Sandra Grant-Griffiths commended the Kendall congregation for organizing the event to observe the nation's anniversary of Independence and encouraged nationals to share in the celebrations.
Earlier in the day, Jamaicans in the Catholic mission in South Florida also marked the nation's Independence anniversary with a service of celebration and fellowship at Our Lady of the Lourdes Church in Miami.
Proceeds from the service will go towards the Missionaries of the Poor.
Print This Story
