National Museum Jamaica gets US funding to boost Disaster Risk and Recovery Plan

The National Museum Jamaica (NMJ), a division of the Institute of Jamaica, was awarded $9.3 million (USD$60,000) in foreign assistance through the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (USAFCP) grant programme. Under the theme

“Protecting Historic Artefacts” the NMJ has been taking a multifaceted approach to protect and preserve Jamaica’s tangible cultural heritage. The NMJ’s efforts under this grant precede Hurricane Melissa, however, the storm’s impact has reinforced their commitment to ensure pieces of Jamaica’s past are preserved.

A key component of the project is the establishment of a demonstration conservation laboratory for the future Port Royal Museum. This museum will serve as a hub for professional workshops and community outreach, while offering a unique opportunity for individuals to witness conservation techniques in practice. Through the project, the NMJ will also develop a mobile conservation kit, enabling hands-on conservation training in schools and communities across the island.

Speaking on the value of the programme, U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Attaché Michael Lavallee said, “This assistance demonstrates the U.S. Government’s commitment to Jamaica as a key partner. It reflects how we stand with the Government and people – whether responding to the aftermath of a devastating hurricane or working to preserve its cultural heritage that has touched the world in profound ways. We value Jamaica’s rich culture and are proud to support efforts to safeguard it for future generations.”

The USAFCP is a flagship U.S. government programme dedicated to preserving cultural heritage worldwide. A release notes that since its establishment in 2001, the programme has provided critical funding for the conservation of historic sites, ancient artefacts, manuscripts, museum collections, and traditional forms of artistic expression in more than 130 countries. ‘ Through these grants, the United States demonstrates its commitment to protecting global cultural heritage, fostering mutual understanding, and strengthening partnerships with communities around the world. The programme is administered by U.S. embassies in close collaboration with local partners and cultural experts, ensuring that preservation efforts are both impactful and sustainable,’ it adds.