THE British High Commission is reporting that it has signed a $19.5-million agreement with National Integrity Action (NIA) to support an anti-bribery campaign in Jamaica.

“The United Kingdom (UK) is providing the funds to the NIA to help raise public awareness about the need for anti-bribery legislation that promotes integrity in the public and private sectors. The signing is at a key timing as the world observes International Anti-Corruption Day on Monday, December 9,” the high commission said in a news release.

According to the high commission, NIA, through this campaign, will advocate anti-bribery legislation, promote integrity, and bolster public support for Jamaica’s broader anti-corruption framework.

The campaign will also seek to lay the groundwork for more extensive anti-corruption work and governance research across the Caribbean.

“Corruption undermines public trust and economic growth. We are pleased to support the National Integrity Action’s efforts to increase awareness and empower Jamaicans to strive for accountability and integrity in all sectors,” British High Commissioner to Jamaica Judith Slater said at the signing last Friday.

“Partnerships like these demonstrate our shared commitment to fostering good governance and building a brighter future for Jamaica,” she added.

Slater noted that the UK has been a steadfast supporter of Jamaica’s anti-corruption efforts, primarily through capacity-building for government agencies tasked with investigating and prosecuting corruption. However, she said that civil society plays an equally critical role in raising public awareness, advocating reform, and educating communities.

Principal director at NIA Danielle Archer said the agreement showcases the UK’s commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s democratic institutions.

“Their extraordinary support for the National Integrity Action in advocating anti-bribery laws is encouraging. Such legislation would undoubtedly promote fairness and equality by curbing cronyism and nepotism, enhance transparency in transactions and governance, and ensure proper resource allocation. Anti-bribery legislation will boost public trust and make Jamaica more attractive for investment and economic growth. It is vital for combating corruption in our society,” the release quotes Archer.

Friday’s agreement was signed by the UK’s Development Representative in Jamaica Oliver Blake and Archer. They were joined by High Commissioner Slater and chair of the NIA board Fae Ellington. The signing was done at the British High Commission in St Andrew.