KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has highlighted reparatory justice, recovery from Hurricane Melissa and the work of the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) as key priorities in his National Heroes Day address.

Holness reaffirmed Jamaica’s call for reparatory justice for the historical injustices associated with slavery, noting that the country had petitioned King Charles III on the issue. He stressed that while the suffering of ancestors must be acknowledged and its lasting effects addressed, Jamaica must also take responsibility for its own prosperity.

“Seeking reparatory justice does not relieve us of the responsibility to build Jamaica’s prosperity,” he said.

The prime minister also praised the resilience and solidarity shown by Jamaicans following Hurricane Melissa, highlighting how communities united to support affected families. He said the disaster underscored the need for better preparation and stronger infrastructure.

Holness identified NaRRA as central to coordinating the national reconstruction effort, including repairing homes, restoring roofs and rebuilding infrastructure. He said recovery must go beyond replacing what was lost to create safer, stronger and more resilient communities.

He urged Jamaicans to build on the legacy of their national heroes by confronting poverty, underdevelopment and vulnerability, while working collectively towards a more prosperous future.

“Our history has shaped us. Our heroes have inspired us, but our destiny is ours to determine,” he said.