Minister of Health & Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton was one of the guest speakers at the American Friends of Jamaica Charity Gala 2024 held at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel, in Miami, Florida on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

Below is his full address:

It gives me great pleasure to stand here representing Jamaica and the Prime Minister, the Most. Hon. Andrew Holness, who could not be here this evening, but sends his best regards for a successful event.

I extend my congratulations to the Board of Directors, Management, and donors of the AFJ, which continues to distinguish itself as a trusted partner of the Government, in improving the lives of so many Jamaicans over the years.

The Government of Jamaica acknowledges the unwavering support provided in enhancing health, education, and economic development, which the AFJ has been doing for over 40 years.

The AFJ has made it a mission to make a difference in the lives of Jamaicans with the award of more than US $20 million, with half of the funds supporting education, a third on healthcare and another tenth on development of business and economic prospects.

The remarkable support given to these recipients is especially valued as the Government continues to lead with its focus to grow the economy, create jobs and improve the well-being of the Jamaican people.

We are committed to our Vision 2030 National Development Plan, the country’s first long-term strategic development plan. It embodies the plans and processes for the realization of a collective vision, encapsulated in the statement: “Jamaica, the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.”

Vision 2030 Jamaica is geared towards engaging all Jamaicans and development partners in the process to achieve and benefit from sustainable and inclusive development.

The achievement of the 4 Goals and 15 National Outcomes will result in a vibrant and internationally competitive economy; a secure and cohesive society; a healthy natural environment; a high level of human capital development; and greater opportunities for social and economic mobility and prosperity.

It can never be understated that advocacy, partnership and collaboration are paramount to the success of combatting the challenges our country is predisposed to.

While respective governments are expected to play the lead role in magnifying the national development agenda, it’s the inclusion of private individuals and companies, civil societies at the national, regional, and international level that will boost the efforts in achieving optimal potential and prosperity.

The Jamaican Government continues to create avenues for partnership, and we encourage organizations and individuals to adopt the exemplary work of the AFJ and support Jamaica.

Tonight, we honour two stalwarts of the financial industry in Jamaica- Christopher Zacca, President & CEO, Sagicor Group Jamaica with his more than 30 years of experience in public and private sector management; and Courtney Campbell, Group President & CEO, VM Group, who has an enviable record of success in several senior executive roles at major financial institutions including GraceKennedy Financial Group and National Commercial Bank.

Both gentlemen are great advocates and have made significant contributions through their sphere of influence to impact thousands of Jamaicans, and are truly deserving of recognition, as sterling sons of the soil, who are committed to making Jamaica a better place because of their presence.

Congratulations, gentlemen, your legacy will speak for itself, and you will long be etched in history as real-born Jamaicans.

I look forward to continuing the work with the AFJ as you honour your mission of “envisioning a world in which all Jamaicans have access to basic education, healthcare services and economic development opportunities for a better quality of life.”

This evening’s gala is a celebration of good hearts, good minds and sincerity of intention, working together to make Jamaica a better place.

Let us remain committed.

Thank you.