Lisa Hanna advocates for a US$60 million investment in Jamaica’s creative industries, yet the article points out practicality issues facing the nation. It emphasizes prioritizing basic needs over potential investments, as many citizens struggle with health and education. Collaborative efforts between government and private sectors may face challenges, as the article underscores the necessity for realistic solutions.
In a recent column, Lisa Hanna argues for increased investment in Jamaica’s creative industry, citing a potential US$60 million needed for world-class facilities catering to film, music, and the arts. She claims that such facilities could stimulate significant employment and economic benefits, describing Jamaica as a “billion-dollar gold mine” in creativity. However, the practicality of her suggestion raises concerns about priorities in a country facing dire social issues, including a lack of healthcare and a broken education system.
While there is clear potential for success in Jamaica’s creative sectors, many creators have achieved success through personal efforts rather than government intervention. The absence of major creative facilities in the Caribbean undoubtedly relates to the overwhelming costs involved in building and maintaining them. Realistic solutions must be prioritized, particularly considering that many citizens lack basic health insurance and necessary educational resources.
Hanna’s calls for collaboration between government and private sectors emphasize bold action; however, the reality is that these sectors often have conflicting interests. Attracting foreign investments to Jamaica poses additional challenges due to differing goals and updated market demands. It is crucial that any proposed investments consider the viability and risks involved, not merely statistics.
Effective planning requires a blend of creativity and practicality. Housing infrastructure that remains unused only wastes resources. Therefore, developing actionable solutions is essential to ensure the overall welfare of the Jamaican populace, especially as opportunity costs remain significant.
The article critiques Lisa Hanna’s recent column advocating for investment in Jamaica’s creative industries, highlighting the gap between aspiration and reality due to resource limitations and pressing social issues. It emphasizes the need for realistic, practical solutions that prioritize citizens’ basic needs, while recognizing the untapped creative potential within Jamaica. Collaboration between sectors is essential, yet complex, as divergent interests may hinder progress.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
