KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Universal Service Fund (USF) has donated 20 desktop computers and two printers to the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) to the tune of approximately $5.5 million.

The donation was made “in an effort to support key public service institutions and promote digital transformation across Jamaica.”

The donation, which was officially handed over on February 4, is expected to significantly improve the fire brigade’s ability to manage and process critical data, boosting operational efficiency.

CEO of the USF, Charlton McFarlane, stressed the importance of the donation stating, “At the USF, we understand the critical role that the Jamaica Fire Brigade plays in protecting lives and property. We are proud to support their efforts by equipping them with the necessary digital tools to improve their operations. This donation is another step toward strengthening the capacity of our public service institutions through technology, and we are committed to continuing these efforts.”

USF says the initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide in Jamaica, ensuring that government agencies, particularly those that provide essential services, have the tools they need to function efficiently in today’s increasingly digital world.

The USF is an agency under the ministry of science, energy, telecommunications and transport mandated to ensure access to information and communication tools to facilitate development.