Ocho Rios on the Road to Recovery: A Community United
ST ANN, Jamaica — In the heart of Ocho Rios, a vibrant community is rallying together as the Government focuses on revitalizing the tourism and business landscape following the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Melissa. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, alongside State Minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), Delano Seiveright, recently embarked on a thorough tour of the area, engaging with local stakeholders and assessing the state of recovery.
During their visit, Bartlett and Seiveright were joined by key figures such as Joy Roberts, executive director of Jamaica Vacations, and Ocho Rios businessman Prem Mahtani of Jewels & Time. Their mission? To ensure that the small operators, who are the backbone of Ocho Rios’ economy, receive the support they need to bounce back.
A Unified Approach to Recovery
Seiveright emphasized the importance of a coordinated effort, stating, “This is a whole-of-Government effort. Tourism recovery and business recovery must move together.” The tour aimed to evaluate hotel readiness, the recovery of attractions, and the conditions of craft markets, which are essential for the local economy.
The Minister highlighted that Senator Aubyn Hill, head of the MIIC, has been proactive since the hurricane passed. “From hours after the hurricane cleared Jamaica, Minister Hill set the pace—meeting businesses, checking supply chains, and ensuring that micro and small enterprises have the support required to restart operations,” Seiveright noted.
The Heart of Ocho Rios: The Cruise Port
A significant aspect of the recovery plan is the reopening of the Ocho Rios Cruise Port, which has been closed for major repairs since February 2024. This port is not just a docking point for ships; it’s a lifeline for local businesses. “The port plays a critical role in Jamaica’s cruise tourism and small-business ecosystem,” Seiveright explained. Its reopening will bring renewed opportunities for craft traders, transport operators, artisans, and local restaurants.
Local craft vendors, who often rely on the influx of tourists, have felt the brunt of the hurricane’s impact. Many lost inventory and weeks of income. “We need to ensure these operators can steadily return to full activity,” Seiveright affirmed, highlighting the MIIC’s commitment to collaborating with various partners to support these small businesses.
Infrastructure: The Backbone of Commerce
As recovery efforts progress, Seiveright stressed the importance of stabilizing utilities—water, electricity, and telecommunications. “Utilities and infrastructure are the backbone of commerce. Without them, neither tourism nor business can function properly,” he said. Ensuring safe transportation links is equally crucial for the community’s revival.
A Model for Recovery
Describing Ocho Rios as Jamaica’s “proof of responsible recovery,” Seiveright expressed optimism about the town’s future. “Ocho Rios is where Jamaica shows the world that we are recovering with order, with purpose, and with our small business people at the center of it,” he said.
As the community comes together to rebuild, the spirit of resilience shines brightly. With the Government’s support and the determination of local operators, Ocho Rios is poised to emerge stronger than ever. Will this vibrant town become a shining example of recovery for other regions in Jamaica? Only time will tell, but the signs are promising.