ST JAMES, Jamaica —National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang will address this evening’s forum of the Norwood Community Development Committee in Norwood, St James, as the community celebrates zero murders in 2024.

It is a significant achievement for the once violence-plagued community that was declared a Zone of Special Operations (ZOSO) on June 20, 2021.

Today’s function is set to start at 6:30pm at the Norwood Sports Complex. It will be held under the theme: “Zero murders 2024: Sustaining a Crime Free 2025.”

Since its declaration as a ZOSO, the Government of Jamaica has invested just under J$400 million towards critical priorities within the community.

These include:

-The rehabilitation of 1.4km of roadway

-Rehabilitation of water and drainage infrastructure

-Rehabilitation of two sports facilities and public spaces

-Installation of community wi-fi;

-Rehabilitation of sidewalk in Norwood square

-Installation of 500 metres of new pole line infrastructure in the Peace View district.

Social Services interventions have included the provision of enterprise grants to 54 micro enterprises; hosting of community football and netball competitions; implementation of solid waste management and community beautification activities, including Labour Day activities.

There has also been community clean-up and beautification; engagement of over 200 children in academic and recreational activities, to include: summer camps, spelling and science competitions, transition seminars for Grade 6 students; hosting of Christmas treats; provision of birth certificates; and capacity building of community development committee.

Project activities from infrastructure and social services activities have resulted in short term employment for over 250 residents.

Today’s function will also be addressed by Omar Sweeney, managing director, Jamaica Social Investment Fund; zone commanders of the Jamaica Defence Force and Jamaica Constabulary Force; as well as representatives of Government ministries, departments and agencies.