Jamaica establishes new Ministry of Mining and Geology

Jamaica has established a new Ministry of Mining and Geology to transform the nation’s mineral sector. Following a directive from Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Minister Floyd Green has been tasked with implementing an economic agenda focused on mineral diversification, fiscal reform, geological intelligence, and environmental accountability.

The ministry aims to expand exploration beyond the traditional bauxite and alumina industries to include limestone, gold, copper, rare earth elements, and other critical minerals. A key priority is the Limestone Value-Addition Programme, which seeks to move the industry toward producing higher-value products such as pharmaceutical-grade calcium carbonate and industrial fillers.

In the House of Representatives, Member of Parliament Dr. Kenneth Russell raised concerns regarding the impact of mining on local communities. He argued that areas within the bauxite mining belt, such as St Ann South Eastern, suffer from significant infrastructure deficits, including poor road conditions and unreliable water access, despite their contributions to national prosperity.