Major General Antony Anderson to be next Ambassador to the US

Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, has announced the appointment of Major General Antony Anderson as Jamaica’s Ambassador-designate to the United States of America and Permanent Representative-designate to the Organisation of American States (OAS).

In a statement on Thursday, Johnson Smith said: “We are very pleased that Major General Anderson will assume this role at a time when Jamaica looks to strengthen its security partnerships. His leadership and expertise will also be critical in advancing Jamaica’s wider priorities, fostering deeper collaboration with the United States, while engaging strategically within the OAS.

“He will build on the strong foundation laid by Ambassador Audrey Marks, whose service has been instrumental in advancing our bilateral agenda,” added Johnson Smith.

Anderson brings decades of experience in defence, security and strategic leadership to the new posting. He previously served as Chief of Defence Staff of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), before becoming Jamaica’s first National Security Advisor, where he is said to have played a critical role in shaping national security policy and international cooperation.

Later, as Commissioner of Police, he spearheaded modernisation efforts in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), advancing technology integration and organisational reform to enhance public safety and law enforcement.

Anderson’s appointment is said to reflect Jamaica’s broader diplomatic approach which emphasises experienced leadership in key ambassadorial roles.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry statement said, “With a strong background in regional security coordination, Major General Anderson has facilitated joint security initiatives across the Caribbean, advising governments on national security frameworks and leading multinational security operations.”

He holds a Master of Defence Administration from the Royal Military College of Science, Shrivenham, and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Cranfield University in the United Kingdom.

The ministry said Anderson is expected to take up his post in Washington, DC imminently.