Culture Ministry at forefront of projects

The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport has launched two podcasts that highlight activities in Jamaica prior and subsequent to Independence in 1962.

The first podcast, titled I Love Jamaica, presents stories of life on the island and persons’ pre-Independence experiences, while the second, titled This Week in Jamaica 60, provides information relating to the country’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations and other major events occurring.

The first podcast also shares information on Jamaica’s development over the years into one of the most recognisable nation brands globally. The idea to launch the podcasts emerged shortly after the Jamaica 60th anniversary celebration launch at Jamaica House in April this year.

Consequent on the availability of content following the launch, the ministry decided to create the podcasts to provide Jamaicans, especially those living abroad, with information about the island. Oliver Watt, director of public relations and corporate communications at the ministry, told the Jamaica Information Service, “we had a lot of content that we could provide to them and [which] they could listen to when they are ready and get what’s going on with Jamaica 60″.

Initial plan was to develop a weekly podcast

He indicated that the initial plan was to develop a weekly podcast, titled This Week in Jamaica 60, with the news-magazine type programme intended to keep Jamaicans at home and abroad up to date on everything taking place in the island for the Diamond Jubilee, including the budget, performances, and new ideas.

According to Watt, “we knew that there was a lot of interest about what was happening for Jamaica 60… people would call and ask. So, we thought this was a good place to provide the information so they could get it when they need it, and as fulsome as possible”.

He stated that the I Love Jamaica podcast is hosted by portfolio minister Olivia Grange.

Watt explained that the podcast has two formats; the first features essays about the experiences of persons growing up in Independent Jamaica, while the second involves a one-to-one discussion with Grange.

The minister has already hosted Jamaican comedian Oliver Samuels about his experiences growing up in Jamaica, noting that the essays presented, so far, have been “fascinating” with some persons having addressed issues occurring before and after Independence.

Watt articulated that previous episodes have featured Jamaican author and journalist Barbara Blake Hannah; communications consultant Jean Lowrie-Chin; performing artiste Owen ‘Blakka’ Ellis, and Vivian Crawford, executive director of the Institute of Jamaica.

He advised that persons can listen to the podcasts on three streaming platforms – Apple, Amazon Music, and Spotify. Information on the podcasts is also available on the ministry’s social media pages.