NATIONAL Museum Jamaica’s push to protect and preserve Jamaica’s tangible cultural heritage has received $9.3 million (US$60,000) in foreign assistance from the United States (US) Government.

The award was made through the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (USAFCP) grant programme which is dedicated to preserving cultural heritage worldwide, US Embassy Kingston stated in a news release on Monday.

The effort by National Museum Jamaica (NMJ), under the theme ‘Protecting Historic Artefacts’, precedes Hurricane Melissa, however, the storm’s impact has reinforced NMJ’s commitment to ensure pieces of Jamaica’s past are preserved.

A key component of the project is the establishment of a demonstration conservation laboratory for the future Port Royal Museum, which will serve as a hub for professional workshops and community outreach while offering a unique opportunity for individuals to witness conservation techniques in practice.

“Through the project the NMJ will also develop a mobile conservation kit, enabling hands-on conservation training in schools and communities across the island,” the release further stated.

“This assistance demonstrates the US Government’s commitment to Jamaica as a key partner. It reflects how we stand with the Government and people – whether responding to the aftermath of a devastating hurricane or working to preserve its cultural heritage that has touched the world in profound ways,” the release quotes US Embassy Public Affairs Attaché Michael Lavallee.

“We value Jamaica’s rich culture and are proud to support efforts to safeguard it for future generations,” he added.

Since its establishment in 2001 the USAFCP has provided critical funding for the conservation of historic sites, ancient artefacts, manuscripts, museum collections, and traditional forms of artistic expression in more than 130 countries. Through these grants the US demonstrates its commitment to protecting global cultural heritage, fostering mutual understanding, and strengthening partnerships with communities around the world.

The programme is administered by US embassies in close collaboration with local partners and cultural experts, ensuring that preservation efforts are both impactful and sustainable.