Jamaica

Brief Description

The Government of Jamaica (GoJ) has made significant strides in localizing and integrating the SDGs in its planning framework - National Development Plan (NDP). However, the NDP is currently financed through the national budget, making this financing model challenged by tight budgetary constraints and limited fiscal space for additional debt. The Joint Programme (JP) will strengthen the Public Finance Management capacity of the Ministries of Finance and Public Service; Education, Youth and Information; and Health and Wellness thereby ensuring efficient, effective and equitable resource allocation towards the achievement not only of the SDGs, but also of the country’s national outcomes reflected in Jamaica Vision 2030.

Approach

As a result of the JP implementation, increased capacity, together with diagnostic budget analyses, development of financial simulation models and budget tracking systems will enable the reprioritization of funds to services which affect the most deprived and vulnerable populations including children and women and people with disabilities. By building capacity, promoting accountable and transparent financial management systems and processes, and linking the budget programs of the country to the SDGs, the JP will contribute to achievement of SDG 16 and 17, and has the potential to further accelerate SDGs concerning gender, health, and education status of citizens.