JAM-DEM Portal Deemed Pivotal to Strengthening Ties with Jamaicans in the Diaspora

The establishment of the Jamaica Diaspora Engagement Model (JAM-DEM) is demonstrative of the Government’s commitment to strengthening ties with the country’s nationals based overseas, according to Project Manager with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Krystal Lofters.

The virtual platform, valued over $30 million, is designed to enhance engagement with members of the Jamaican Diaspora in the areas of trade and investment.

It is expected to play a pivotal role in attracting diaspora-led investments in a bid to foster entrepreneurship and stimulate business development, while encouraging innovation in priority sectors of Jamaica’s economy.

JAM-DEM’s development was spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and IOM, in collaboration with the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ).

Ms. Lofters said the portal is a cutting-edge tool that will serve as a catalyst for enhanced communication, collaboration and empowerment within the diaspora.

“It truly demonstrates Jamaica’s recognition of the invaluable contributions made by its diaspora, and underscores the Government’s commitment to harnessing their skills, knowledge and resources for the betterment of the nation,” she said while addressing the system’s recent handover at the Ministry’s offices in downtown Kingston.

Ms. Lofters pointed out that the IOM recognises the immense contributions that diaspora communities make to their countries of origin, noting that in Jamaica’s case, its nationals play a vital role in supporting various sectors of the local economy, fostering innovation, and promoting social development.

“We have identified [that] the potential impact [of] these contributions can be further amplified through effective engagement and coordination, and the [JAM-DEM] platform is designed to address this by providing a safe, dynamic and user-friendly virtual space where Jamaicans can connect with each other,” she stated.

Vice Chair of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC), Shauna Chin, said a way has been created to deepen the relationship beyond the traditional regions into non-traditional areas such as the wider Caribbean, Middle East, Asia, the Pacific, Latin America and Africa.

She added that the portal represents “an incredible use of technology” to enhance the ability of Council members to perform efficiently.

Council member, Asha Richards, said the system will serve as a “conduit for communication, collaboration and channelling investment back into our homeland”.

“The platform is a bridge that spans oceans, connecting Jamaicans abroad with the heart and soul of our nation,” she added.