Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness is in San Diego, California, where he is set to accept the prestigious 2026 Esri President’s Award on behalf of Jamaica, honouring the country’s continued leadership in the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to improve disaster preparedness, public planning and government decision-making.
The international award recognises Jamaica’s progress in building an integrated national geospatial infrastructure and expanding the use of digital mapping and location-based technology across key areas of governance. Through GIS, government agencies are able to analyse geographic data to improve the management of infrastructure such as roads and water systems, guide land-use planning, identify vulnerable communities and strengthen emergency response efforts during hurricanes and other natural disasters.
The recognition comes as San Diego hosts the 2026 Esri User Conference, the world’s largest event dedicated to GIS technology. The conference, scheduled for July 13 to 17, is expected to welcome more than 18,000 participants under the theme, “GIS: Creating a More Intelligent World”. Jamaica’s achievement places the country among global leaders using geospatial tools to support smarter planning, resilience and more effective national development.
During Holness’ absence, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia “Babsy” Grange is overseeing the affairs of government. She assumed the responsibility after Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace Dr Horace Chang also travelled overseas on official duties.
The Esri award represents another significant international acknowledgement of Jamaica’s digital transformation efforts, highlighting the growing role of technology, data and innovation in strengthening infrastructure, disaster resilience and sustainable development across the country.
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