The Government of Jamaica, through the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development (MEGID), held a high-level meeting with the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches (JUGC) to discuss opportunities for streamlined land titling and the process for adverse possession that continue to affect churches islandwide.

Minister with responsibility for land titling and settlements, Hon. Robert Montague, was joined by senior representatives from the National Land Agency (NLA), and the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES), who has oversight for the faith-based institutions.

Minister Montague emphasised the Government’s commitment to resolving longstanding land issues and accelerating the national titling programme as part of wider development goals.

“The Government’s aim is to get titles for 100% of lands, that is why this partnership is critical. Many of our churches have served their communities for generations, and they deserve a clear, affordable and accessible pathway to formal land ownership”, the Minister stated.

Representatives from the NLA delivered a detailed presentation outlining the step-by-step process for securing land titles, highlighting available support systems and clarifying the legal procedures relating to adverse possession. The session included an interactive question-and-answer segment, enabling church leaders to raise specific concerns and receive direct guidance from technical experts.

Minister Montague emphasised that this initiative is a commitment made by the Prime Minister and forms part of the Government’s ongoing land reform and titling strategy, aimed at increasing the number of Jamaicans and community groups with registered and secure property rights.