Samuda: Government making bold investments to solve Jamaica’s water crisis
Toriann Ellis / Our Today
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De facto Water Minister Matthew Samuda says the government is making bold investments to solve Jamaica’s water crisis and restore comfort to households that have waited decades for reliable access.
Minister Samuda acknowledged the public frustration, especially from communities still experiencing water challenges. “I understand the frustration. You hear about billions being spent, and you’re still using a pan. But we are coming,” he said.
The minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation explained that while rain and river water may be free, the infrastructure to deliver it to homes is not.
“To catch water is not free. To store it is not free. To clean it is not free. To get it to your pipe is not free,” he said.
He noted that for over 50 years, little to no investment was made in Jamaica’s water systems. The result is a backlog that the government is now working to clear through a historic J$10 billion investment in water and sewerage infrastructure.
“We are investing more than ever before in water and sewage. We are doing it to bring comfort to your home and confidence to your business,” he added.
He emphasised that economic growth and business expansion rely heavily on access to basic services like water.
“If I want businesses to invest faster, I must make sure they have water. It’s that simple,” Samuda stated.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to getting the job done. “This is a government that does the hard work and faces the problems others ignored,” he said.
Samuda further reiterated that the government continues to invest in the infrastructure needed to support a stronger economy and better quality of life for all Jamaicans.
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