British High Commission signs $19 m agreement with NIA

The British High Commission has signed a J$19.5 million agreement with the National Integrity Action (NIA) to support an anti-bribery campaign in Jamaica.

The United Kingdom (UK) is providing the funds to the NIA to help raise public awareness about the need for anti-bribery legislation that promotes integrity in both the public and private sectors.

“The signing is at a key timing as the World observes International Anti-Corruption Day on Monday, December 9,” said a statement from the British High Commission on Friday. According to the statement, Jamaica currently lacks an Anti-Bribery Act, but through this campaign, the NIA will advocate for anti-bribery legislation, promote integrity, and bolster public support for Jamaica’s broader anti-corruption framework.

“It also seeks to lay the groundwork for more extensive anti-corruption work and governance research across the Caribbean,” the statement added.

Speaking at Friday’s signing, British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Judith Slater, expressed her commitment to the partnership, stating that "Corruption undermines public trust and economic growth. We are pleased to support the National Integrity Action’s efforts to increase awareness and, empower Jamaicans to strive for accountability and integrity in all sectors. Partnerships like these demonstrate our shared commitment to fostering good governance and building a brighter future for Jamaica."

Slater pointed out that the UK has been a steadfast supporter of Jamaica’s anti-corruption efforts, primarily through capacity building for government agencies tasked with investigating and prosecuting corruption. However, civil society plays an equally critical role in raising public awareness, advocating for reform, and educating communities. 

Meanwhile, the NIA noted that although Jamaica is developing its first National Anti-Corruption Strategy through the Integrity Commission and other key stakeholders, a nationwide anti-corruption campaign has yet to resonate deeply within the public space.

Principal Director at the NIA, Danielle Archer speaking on the significance of this latest UK partnership said “This key MoU showcases the United Kingdom's commitment to strengthening Jamaica's democratic institutions. Their extraordinary support for the NIA in advocating anti-bribery laws is encouraging”.

“Such legislation would undoubtedly promote fairness and equality by curbing cronyism and nepotism, enhance transparency in transactions and governance, and ensure proper resource allocation. Anti-bribery legislation will boost public trust and make Jamaica more attractive for investment and economic growth. It is vital for combating corruption in our society,” Archer added. 

Archer said the campaign builds on NIA’s existing initiatives, including the push to amend the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) (2007) to include Unexplained Wealth Orders (UWO), the advocacy for security measures legislation, and the establishment of Integrity Clubs in schools.

Friday’s agreement was signed by the UK’s Development Representative in Jamaica, Oliver Blake, and the NIA’s  Archer. They were joined by High Commissioner Slater and Chairman of the NIA Board, Fae Ellington. The signing was done at the British High Commission in Kingston.