The Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, DC, is reaffirming the commitment of the government of Jamaica to strengthen its labor cooperation with the United States, in moving forward with plans to expand participation in the H-2A and H-2B United States work visa programs for Jamaicans.
The announcement came after discussions at the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, DC last week, when Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Retired), Antony Anderson, met with Jamaica’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, Collett Robert-Risden, to review the current status and future growth of Jamaica’s overseas employment initiative.
During the meeting, it was emphasized that there is a need to continue the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in Jamaica’s economy, particularly for rural communities that heavily rely on seasonal overseas employment. The programs have remained intact so far, despite broader immigration enforcement measures in the United States.
“Jamaica overseas employment programs continue to be a pillar of economic resilience for Jamaican workers and rural communities,” Ambassador Anderson stated.
He continued by explaining the additional benefits that come from operating the program for these workers, “through our longstanding partnership with the United States, the Embassy remains committed to expanding safe, orderly and mutually beneficial labor pathways, especially as we rebuild and create new opportunities in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.”
During the meeting, the Ambassador also discussed the historical foundation of the program, which dates back to 1943 when Jamaican workers first traveled to the United States during World War II to address labor shortages. More than eight decades later, the initiative has evolved into one of the most successful bilateral labor arrangements in the Western Hemisphere.
Recent figures reflect the program’s continued strength. In the program last year, approximately 5,000 Jamaican workers were employed in the United States agricultural sector under H-2A visa program. In addition, more than 12,000 Jamaicans participated in the H-2B program, supporting industries such as hospitality and landscaping.
Beyond job placement, the United States has provided Jamaica with extensive technical assistance in areas essential to labor governance. The support includes labor market, information systems, child labor prevention, occupational safety and health standards, and initiatives aimed at combating and trafficking in persons.
The meeting was held despite Jamaica’s efforts to recover from Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread damage across the island. The officials agreed that the overseas employment programs are a critical component of the national recovery efforts, offering income-generating opportunities that directly support families and communities affected by the disaster.
The Permanent Secretary, Robert-Risden, was accompanied by liaison officers, Mr. Sheldon Brown, and Miss Karlen Brown, who provided direct support to Jamaican workers enrolled in overseas employment programs. Minister Counsellor for Trade and Economic Affairs at the Embassy, Alicia Taylor also attended the meeting.
