On Monday, 27 April ’26, Niagara Falls took on a colourful illumination after dark of gold, green & black to mark the 60th anniversary of the Canada – Jamaica Farm Work Program (SAWP).
In a media release, the Jamaican government said that the lighting took place at 21:30 hours Jamaica time (22:30 hrs Canadian time). It highlighted six decades of partnership between the two countries under the program.
Members of the public were able to view this display live through 24-hour webcams covering the event. It included feeds capturing the falls, besides the surrounding areas. This facility enables Jamaicans at home & across the diaspora to witness the event in real time.
The symbolic display formed part of a wider programme of commemorative activities that recognised the SAWP. It began six decades ago in 1966 with 264 Jamaican workers. It has since expanded to provide opportunities for more than 9,000 workers each year.
Minister of Labour & Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship that existed between Jamaica & Canada.
The government & the Jamaican people extend sincere appreciation to the government & people of Canada. This is in recognition of their enduring partnership. During 6 decades, this relationship has nurtured opportunities for economic development, cultural exchange, and educational collaboration between Jamaica and Canada. Charles added that it has also sustained livelihoods and strengthened bonds between the two nations.
Charles went on to add that the programme’s impact continues to be felt across Jamaican communities. It supports families & contributes to stability by providing employment opportunities overseas.
The permanent secretary with responsibility for the Overseas Employment Programme, Colette Roberts Risden, shared that the initiative’s success has been driven by strong operational systems.
The strength of this program remains in its disciplined execution. What is managed is a full system. It begins with recruitment & vetting to deployment, including on-site oversight.
