Keith Duncan has acknowledged that some Jamaicans are losing faith despite the country’s stated economic good fortunes but insists that the stage has been set for the general population to feel the impact before long.

“Jamaica is on a good trajectory. We have had challenging paths, we have had our ups and downs. We have not been able to deliver the goods to our people in the way that we all want to do. We all want to ensure that we can raise the quality of life of our Jamaican people but nothing happens overnight, we are on a trajectory. It takes step by step to build,” Duncan, who was one of three vested with the Order of Jamaica at King’s House in St Andrew on Monday, told the
Jamaica Observer.

Defending the ruling Jamaica Labour Party’s course over the three successive election wins, Duncan, chief executive officer of JMMB Group and Government senator, said the method chosen to secure the country’s economic standing is strategic will bear fruit.

“First, we had to build stability, secondly, we had to make sure that we get our financial house in order. We had to also ensure that we invest in our national security architecture to bring down the rate of crime and violence. We now have to continue to invest in our communities in terms of the infrastructure, in terms of the social structure, in terms of the health services, in terms of building the community spirit and leadership,” Duncan outlined.

“We also have to continue to invest in education. We have our Education Transformation Plan but it takes time. Jamaica is on a good path. We have to protect our economic independence and we have done well because right now we can survive through vulnerable and volatile periods. Now, we need to continue to strengthen our people and that’s the work that needs to happen over the next five years, having achieved all that we have achieved,” he said further.

According to Duncan, who has been hailed for playing a pivotal role in Jamaica’s economic reform process as chairman of the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC), Jamaica’s “future is bright”.

“So while it might be tough for people on the ground, in the communities and they can’t see, but I see it. I see the pathway for Jamaica and we are on a good pathway. What we need is unity, what we don’t want is negativity. What we need is people to believe in Jamaica. What we need is people to work across political parties and put Jamaica first and let’s build this beautiful country,” he said.

“We are much better than we think we are. We can be a shining example for the Caribbean, like we have been in track and field, like we have been in achieving macro-economic stability and financial responsibility and prudence, so we are an example, so let’s continue to be the example,” added Duncan.

Last week the Statistical Institute of Jamaica reported that the economy expanded by 1.6 per cent between April and June compared to the same period in 2024. It said the performance marks a second-consecutive quarter of growth, with momentum building.

According to the Bank of Jamaica, the economy “is estimated to have expanded in the June and September 2025 quarters”, with growth for the July-September period projected in a range of three to four per cent.

“This continued expansion is consistent with a tight labour market and anecdotal information on elevated wage growth,” the central bank said.

It also said with the expansion to be maintained over the next two years, the island’s economy could be on its steadiest recovery path in years.

The 2025 Ceremony of Investiture and Presentation of National Honours and Awards saw a total 141 Jamaicans being vested with the Order of Jamaica, the Order of Distinction (Commander and Officer ranks), various badges of honour for meritorious service, long and faithful service, the medal of honour for gallantry, as well as the medal of honour for meritorious service.