The Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development (MEGID) is highlighting the critical role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in strengthening Jamaica’s capacity to anticipate, prepare for and respond to natural hazards.

The importance of GIS in disaster risk reduction and resilience planning was underscored as the Ministry launched Geography Awareness Month 2026 on Friday (October 30), under the theme, “GIS in Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience Planning. “Delivering remarks on behalf of Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Arlene Williams, Principal Director of the National Spatial Data Management Branch (NSDMB), Mrs. Alicia Edwards, said Hurricane Melissa reinforced the importance of reliable spatial information in identifying vulnerabilities, assessing risks and guiding decisions that protect lives and communities.

“Resilience does not begin when a storm makes landfall. It begins much earlier with the information we collect, the risks we identify, the decisions we make about where and how we build, and the plans we put in place to protect our people,” she said.

She described GIS as a critical national development tool, enabling better planning for infrastructure, housing and land use, while helping to identify high-risk areas and direct resources where they are needed most.

Through the NSDMB, the Land Information Council of Jamaica (LICJ), the National Emergency Response GIS Team (NERGIS) and the Government’s Enterprise Licensing Agreement with ESRI, the Ministry is strengthening the use and sharing of spatial information across the public sector.

“GIS must not be viewed solely as a technical resource for specialists, but as a practical tool for better governance, effective public investment and stronger, more resilient communities,” Mrs. Edwards said.

Geography Awareness Month will feature a Spatial Solutions Summit on November 12 and GIS Day on November 18, showcasing how geographic information and technology can support national development and disaster resilience.