Hon. Tova Hamilton Joins Leadership Team as State Minister, Signalling Continuity and Renewal
KINGSTON, Jamaica; Monday, September 22, 2025: Jamaica’s tourism industry is entering a bold new era of record growth, global influence, and innovation as Hon. Edmund Bartlett begins his fourth term as Minister of Tourism. Joining him is Hon. Tova Hamilton, who steps into the role of State Minister, bringing new perspectives and energy to one of Jamaica’s most vital sectors.
Minister Bartlett, Jamaica’s longest-serving tourism minister, having previously served from 2007–2012, 2016–2020, and 2020–2025, has overseen a period of unprecedented expansion. Since 2016, visitor arrivals have soared to historic highs, as in 2024 Jamaica welcomed some 2.9 million stopover visitors and 1.25 million cruise passengers, generating US$4.3 billion in earnings. These milestones have cemented tourism’s role as a cornerstone of the economy, directly benefiting local businesses and communities islandwide.
Momentum continues into 2025, with preliminary figures pointing to another record-breaking year as Jamaica remains on track to surpass last year’s earnings. This demonstrates the sector’s resilience and adaptability amid consequentially shifting global trends.
The timing of Minister Bartlett’s return is especially fitting, as it coincides with the observance of World Tourism Day (WTD) 2025 on September 27. Established by United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism), WTD highlights tourism’s impact on culture, communities, and economies worldwide. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” reflects the sector’s commitment to driving environmental protection, social equity, and economic resilience.
“I am deeply honoured to once again serve the people of Jamaica as Minister of Tourism,” said Minister Bartlett.
“As we enter this new chapter, my focus is not only on maintaining our record-breaking performance but on ensuring that tourism’s success is felt in every community. Together, we will drive innovation, foster sustainability, and create opportunities that transform lives for generations to come.”
Hon. Tova Hamilton, an attorney-at-law with extensive experience in entertainment and tourism, brings a fresh perspective to the Ministry. As a former Deputy Executive Director at the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo), she has a deep understanding of both policy and practice. Her constituency of Trelawny Northern is one of the region’s leading cruise tourism destinations.
“Coming from a parish that thrives on tourism, I understand firsthand the sector’s power to change lives,” said Minister Hamilton. “I am ready to work alongside Minister Bartlett to position Jamaica as the premier world-class destination in the western hemisphere.”
Minister Bartlett praised the contributions of outgoing State Minister Hon. Delano Seiveright, noting that the transition reflects the Government’s commitment to both continuity and renewal in tourism governance.
“This new dispensation of leadership underscores the Government’s commitment to continuity and renewal in tourism governance, ensuring stability while introducing fresh perspectives to sustain Jamaica’s global competitiveness in the industry,” Bartlett added.
Looking ahead, Minister Bartlett’s first week back sets the pace for Jamaica’s tourism strategy, with activities designed to advance sustainable growth and deepen stakeholder engagement. These include:
• Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) 2025 – Jamaica’s premier tourism marketplace, connecting local suppliers, international buyers, and media partners to secure contracts, stimulate investment, and expand market reach for brand Jamaica.
• One Day Strategic Retreat – Senior Tourism leaders and technocrats gather to align public bodies activities, set priorities, accelerate flagship projects, and determine the best way to allocate resources to foster sustainable, inclusive tourism growth.
• World Tourism Day Youth Forum – Builds on the foundation of the Tourism Action Clubs by deepening youth engagement and fostering the next generation of tourism leaders dedicated to innovation and sustainability.
• Global Tourism Leadership Webinar – Positions Jamaica as a global voice in sustainable tourism, promoting international collaboration and best practices.
• Jamaica Bridal Expo – Showcases Jamaica as the Caribbean’s leading wedding and romance destination, fuelling growth in high-value niche markets.
As Jamaica steps into this new era of tourism leadership, the Ministry remains dedicated to building a globally competitive, sustainable sector that delivers prosperity and opportunities for all Jamaicans.
