KINGSTON, Jamaica —Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Matthew Samuda, says the Government is committed to improving rural water systems, with key upgrades currently underway in the Mocho Division of Clarendon.

Responding to recent concerns raised about the Goshen Pumping System, Samuda confirmed that the National Water Commission (NWC), in collaboration with Rural Water Supply Limited (RWSL) and the Office of the Member of Parliament, Robert Nesta Morgan, have been executing a phased and strategic programme to improve water access in Mocho.

Key interventions outlined by the ministry in a statement on Monday include plans to install a new relift pump for the Goshen Pumping Station which will be installed by August 2025.

Likewise, in the interim, a temporary pump will be provided to alleviate the current shortfall. When installed in August, the new pump will restore the system’s full operational capacity and stabilise supply to communities to include Goshen, Brixton Hill, White Chapel, Mocho Road, Eden, Bagatelle, and Darlow.

There are also plans for phase two of the expansion of the Eden water supply. The minister noted that this critical phase is progressing steadily, supported directly by Morgan, who has personally facilitated the provision of necessary piping infrastructure to accelerate the project timeline.

The RWSL is currently procuring a 10,000-gallon storage tank to be installed in the area, improving reliability and resilience across the network.

In addition, Samuda highlighted the Government’s recent emergency measures.

“Last year, over $4 million was spent in trucking water to affected communities, with Mocho receiving a significant portion of that support. In response to ongoing needs, we have allocated an additional $2 million to assist residents. Furthermore, over 30 residents benefited from the water tank programme last year, and our plans are on track for 45 residents to benefit this year”, he said.

“This Government, working through the relevant agencies, has been actively implementing real solutions to improve water access in Mocho. We care about the people of Mocho and are responding with planning, investment, and execution. The people of Mocho deserve sustainable, reliable water, and that is exactly what we are working to deliver”.

The Ministry said it remains committed to ensuring rural communities across Jamaica benefit from improved water access through smart investment, strong partnerships, and decisive leadership.