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Berger Paints Jamaica Limited joined government officials, volunteers, civic organisations and community members at Sabina Park in Kingston on Labour Day for a national project focused on restoration, improvement and resilience under the theme, “One People, One Purpose – In All Things, Jamaica Wins.”

As part of its contribution to the national initiative, Berger Paints Jamaica is supporting the creation of a large-scale mural at Sabina Park, celebrating the legacy and cultural importance of the historic venue. The mural, which remains in progress, is expected to be completed in time for the highly anticipated return of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) to Jamaica in August. 

The initiative formed part of the Government’s wider Labour Day activities and brought together representatives from the public and private sectors, civic organisations, the Jamaica Defence Force, volunteers and residents who contributed their time and effort to improving one of Jamaica’s most historic sporting facilities.

The project at Sabina Park focused on enhancing the venue ahead of upcoming international cricket fixtures and included cleaning, painting, accessibility improvements, repairs to rails and infrastructure, safety upgrades and the installation of additional solid waste collection facilities. Berger’s involvement, particularly through the mural project and restoration support and refreshing of railings, gates and a number of other now freshly painted spaces, formed a visible part of the day’s transformation efforts at the venue.

General Manager of Berger Paints Jamaica, Dwaine Williams, welcomed the opportunity for the company to contribute to the restoration efforts at Sabina Park.

“At Berger Paints Jamaica, we believe strong communities are built through partnership, pride and collective action,” Williams said. “Supporting Labour Day initiatives such as this reflects our continued commitment to national development and to preserving spaces that hold cultural and historical significance for Jamaicans especially now as we rebuild post Hurricane Melissa, representation of positive and happy times are needed.”

Speaking during the official programme, Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness underscored the importance of Labour Day as more than a public holiday, describing it as a national call to service and collective responsibility.

“Today’s not really a holiday. A public holiday, yes, but today is a day of work,” the Prime Minister said. “So I encourage all Jamaicans, it’s not too late, to use this time to walk around your house, and look for the trees that are a threat to your roof. If you can, effect some repairs to your roofs, check your generator, refuel it, put together your emergency stock of food, and other items. Look for that drain or culvert that may be blocked in your community and help to clean it. Do something. Every individual taking action in their own sphere, together, can synergistically change the nation.”

Prime Minister Holness also highlighted the need for continued investment in and maintenance of Jamaica’s infrastructure, noting the significance of preserving national landmarks such as this.

“Sabina Park is part of Jamaica’s sporting legacy and national identity. Maintaining and modernising our infrastructure is essential to national development and to ensuring these spaces continue to serve future generations,” he added.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange, expressed appreciation to the many volunteers and partners who contributed to the day’s activities.

“Labour Day continues to demonstrate the power of Jamaicans working together in service of country and community,” Minister Grange said. “The work being carried out here at Sabina Park will help ensure that this historic venue remains ready to host world-class cricket while also serving generations of Jamaicans who cherish its legacy.”

She noted that improvements completed and underway at Sabina Park include upgraded lighting, accessibility enhancements, repairs to rails and facilities, improved safety features and ongoing restoration work in preparation for the return of major cricket events, including the Caribbean Premier League.

Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Mark Golding, also commended the choice of Sabina Park as one of the national Labour Day projects and emphasised the importance of preserving the venue’s rich history.

“Sabina Park is a legendary facility, and we have to keep it at a standard that is benefitting from its tremendous legacy,” Golding stated. “It is important that we continue to care for and modernise facilities such as this so they remain worthy of their legacy and continue contributing to Jamaica’s sporting future.”

CEO of the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation, Robert Hill, speaking on behalf of The Mayor of Kingston, praised the spirit of volunteerism displayed throughout the day.

Labor Day, ladies and gentlemen, is a demonstration of what Jamaicans do, particularly when our communities come together,” Hill said. “Every hand that showed up today, is a statement that we are committed to restoration, improvement, and resilience. Sabina Park, this historic structure, matters to the city of Kingston, and the wider country, as cricket returning to this venue at the highest level is good for the city of Kingston.”

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., also thanked volunteers across the island for participating in projects aimed at strengthening communities and supporting recovery efforts following the daunting impact of Hurricane Melissa.

In addition to Sabina Park, national restoration efforts were also undertaken at the Lewistown Early Childhood Institution in St. Elizabeth, which sustained major damages during last year’s hurricane.

The day’s activities reinforced the message that through unity, service and national pride, Jamaicans can continue building stronger and more resilient communities.