JSIF Committed to Revival of Downtown Kingston

Managing Director of the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), Omar Sweeney, says the agency is committed to drive investment back into downtown Kingston.

He said the JSIF has, over the years, contributed to the development of infrastructure in the area and will, through integrated community development projects, be elevating the standards of the area to encourage higher levels of comfort for commercial and social activities in the area.

Mr. Sweeney was speaking to JIS News following a presentation to members of the Rotary Club of Downtown Kingston, on February 3, at the Hotel Four Seasons.

He cited the completion of the Franklin Town Sports Complex on Deanery Road last year, through the JSIF’s European Union (EU)-supported Poverty Reduction Programme as an example of efforts to develop the area. He said this facility is an asset to the community for promoting wellness, as well as for economic activity.

“We are going to be in communities like Greenwich Town and Majesty Gardens and West Kingston, carrying out the types of development that will not only improve infrastructure, but also deal with solid waste management issues, and facilitate the growth of business through our entrepreneurial training programmes and support to small business enterprises,” Mr. Sweeney said.

He encouraged increased support of youth and small business owners by the private sector, through the provision of internship and mentoring.

“Downtown represents hidden wealth that this country possesses that is not being unearthed and the Rotary Club, as a non-governmental organisation… and an institution that represents downtown, can play a pivotal role in accessing and exposing the opportunities of community-based groups,” he said.