Jamaica is a beautiful Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches, reggae music, and vibrant culture. It is a popular tourist destination attracting millions of visitors from all over the world every year.
The Minister of Tourism plays an essential role in promoting the country’s tourism industry and ensuring that visitors have a memorable experience. So, who is Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism? Let’s find out!
Edmund Bartlett – Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism
Edmund Bartlett is the current Minister of Tourism for Jamaica. He was born on December 28, 1951, in Kingston, Jamaica. Bartlett has been involved in politics for over three decades and has held several positions in the Jamaican government.
Early Life and Education
Bartlett attended Calabar High School in Kingston before pursuing higher education at the University of the West Indies (UWI), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in International Relations.
Career
Bartlett began his political career as a member of parliament for East Central St. James in 1980. He later served as Minister of State for Information, Broadcasting and Culture from 1985 to 1989 under Prime Minister Edward Seaga.
In 2007, Bartlett was appointed as Minister of Tourism by then-Prime Minister Bruce Golding. During his first term as minister, he implemented several initiatives aimed at boosting Jamaica’s tourism sector, including developing new markets and improving infrastructure.
Bartlett was reappointed as Minister of Tourism by Prime Minister Andrew Holness following his election victory in 2016. Since then, he has continued to implement policies to improve Jamaica’s tourism industry, such as increasing airlift capacity and hotel room stock.
Awards and Achievements
Bartlett has received numerous awards for his contribution to Jamaica’s tourism industry, including the Caribbean Tourism Minister of the Year award in 2017 and 2019. He was also awarded the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association’s (PATWA) International Travel Award for Best Minister of Tourism in 2019.
Conclusion
Edmund Bartlett has been instrumental in promoting Jamaica as a premier tourist destination and has worked tirelessly to improve the country’s tourism industry. His efforts have helped increase visitor arrivals and revenue, making tourism one of Jamaica’s top foreign exchange earners. As Minister of Tourism, he continues to pursue initiatives that will enhance Jamaica’s position as a leading tourist destination globally.