KINGSTON, Jamaica — The United Nations (UN) invested over US$15.4 million (J$2.4 billion) in Jamaica last year, targeting the nation’s most pressing development needs across health, education, climate resilience, justice, and youth empowerment, according to its 2024 Annual Results Report.

The report, officially launched this week, uses artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality, and Jamaican Sign Language to expand the way people connect with development results.

It details how the funding impacted communities, particularly following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Beryl, which struck Jamaica in July 2024.

With support from the UN, including US$2.5 million mobilised through the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), more than 123,000 Jamaicans received immediate relief, including shelter repairs, cash-based food assistance, and psychosocial support for children and their families.

“From emergency response to economic empowerment, the UN is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Jamaica,” said Dennis Zulu, UN resident coordinator. “Our pocket of resources is shrinking, and geopolitical shifts have impacted development assistance. However, the UN is committed to the values of inclusive development and will continue to support Jamaica’s development, leaving no one behind.”

Key highlights from the report include:

— Health Breakthrough: Jamaica was officially certified by the World Health Organisation for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and congenital syphilis—a historic milestone in public health.

— Youth at the Centre: The establishment of the United Nations & European Union Youth Advisory Group (YAG) gave young Jamaicans an official voice in shaping UN programmes, earning global recognition as a model for youth engagement.

— Climate Action and Jobs: Jamaica led the region in green job assessments, the development of a green jobs/growth model, hydrogen energy research, and ESG finance training, all with UN support. Investments in resilient infrastructure and agriculture strengthened local economies.

— Disability Inclusion: The UN rolled out a national Disability Inclusion Work Plan and deepened collaboration with the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) to create inclusive systems and infrastructure.

The report also celebrates Jamaica’s growing leadership in creative industries and diaspora engagement with the launch of the JaDiaspora Engage Platform.

Looking ahead, the UN said it plans to strengthen partnerships with the private sector, support Jamaica’s Universal Periodic Review on human rights, and continue championing inclusive, climate-smart growth.