Carnival Spirit: Kamal Bankay and the Future of Jamaica’s Xodus Carnival

Kamal Bankay, the executive chairman of Dream Entertainment Limited, recently took center stage at the Xodus Carnival 2026 Qualifiers Content Day & Media Launch. His remarks resonated with the vibrant spirit of Jamaica’s Carnival season, which the government has embraced as a key part of its national recovery strategy. This year, the Carnival is not just about revelry; it’s about rebuilding the economy and uplifting communities.

A Pillar of Economic Recovery

The Jamaican government has recognized the Carnival season as a vital contributor to the local economy, generating nearly $100 billion last year alone. This impressive figure highlights the festival’s role in supporting thousands of jobs across the island. As Jamaica recovers from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, events like the Xodus Carnival are being positioned as essential to revitalizing the nation’s creative and tourism sectors.

David Brown, the director of cultural and entertainment synergies at the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, emphasized the economic impact of Carnival-specific activities. “In 2024, these activities generated approximately $91.3 billion (US$600 million),” he shared at the media launch. The broader entertainment sector, which contributes 3-4% to Jamaica’s GDP, provided about $5 billion in direct economic activity during peak periods last year.

The Multiplier Effect

“The multiplier effect is real,” Brown continued, stressing the importance of maintaining and supporting entertainment activities for a quicker recovery. The Carnival economy creates a ripple effect, benefiting a wide range of industries. From costume designers and musicians to security firms and transport operators, the festival touches every corner of Jamaica’s economy.

Kamal Bankay echoed this sentiment, stating that the Xodus Carnival is “one of the deepest and most inclusive economic drivers that touches every single aspect of our economy.” His words reflect a deep understanding of how interconnected the Carnival is with the livelihoods of many Jamaicans.

Creative Wealth as Economic Wealth

Tourism leaders are keenly aware of the festival’s international appeal. Carey Wallace, executive director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, pointed out that Jamaica’s true competitive advantage lies not in traditional resources but in its “creative wealth” of music, culture, and natural beauty. “We are converting that creative wealth into economic wealth,” Wallace noted. “Restarting a strong industry like entertainment creates long-term opportunities.”

A Global Reach

The Carnival’s global digital presence is another asset, generating hundreds of millions of impressions annually. This digital reach serves as a powerful marketing tool for Jamaica, attracting visitors from around the world. As preparations for the 2026 season kick off, hoteliers in Kingston and other parishes are already expanding their capacities, anticipating a surge in visitors and economic returns.

Looking Ahead

With the excitement building for the upcoming Carnival season, the question remains: How will Jamaica harness this momentum to create lasting change? As Kamal Bankay and other leaders rally behind the Carnival, the island stands on the brink of a vibrant revival, fueled by creativity and community spirit. The future looks bright, and the rhythm of Carnival is set to echo through the streets of Jamaica once more.