His Excellency Receives Letters of Credence from Ambassadors & High Commissioners

His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen, received Letters of Credence from two Ambassadors and two High Commissioners during a Presentation of Credentials Ceremony held at King’s House. In welcoming them, His Excellency congratulated the diplomats and encouraged them to build strong partnerships, engage meaningfully with Jamaica’s leaders, and embrace the vibrancy of our culture…

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Tiana Dinham is the 2026 Jamaica Rhodes Scholarship recipient

Congratulations to Tiana Dinham, the recipient of the 2026 Jamaica Rhodes Scholarship! The winner was announced at King’s House by His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen, who serves as Chairman of the Rhodes Scholarship Selection Committee. His Excellency led the interview process with all the finalists, each of whom demonstrated exceptional intellect, leadership, and commitment to…

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National Remembrance Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony 2025

His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen attended the Annual National Remembrance Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony at National Heroes Park, where he laid a wreath in solemn tribute to individuals, including Jamaicans, who lost their lives in fighting in the two world wars. The ceremony paid homage to their bravery and sacrifice and commemorated…

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His Excellency Receives the Finalists in the ‘LASCO/JCF Saluting Our Heroes Awards Programme’

His Excellency welcomed representatives of the LASCO Chin Foundation and the finalists in the ‘LASCO/JCF Saluting Our Heroes Awards Programme’ during a Courtesy Call at King’s House. The initiative was launched in 2000 and recognises the professionalism, dedication, and community service of outstanding members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Finalists are evaluated on key criteria,…

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Soroptimist International Jamaica (Kingston Club): Courtesy Call

Her Excellency the Most Honourable Lady Allen welcomed members of Soroptimist International Jamaica (Kingston Club) for a Courtesy Call on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Led by President Ms. Dawn Campbell, the newly elected Executive Committee was formally introduced to Lady Allen, and they discussed the Club’s current focus and ongoing initiatives. The Soroptimist International Jamaica…

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The Heart Foundation of Jamaica: Courtesy Call

A delegation from the Heart Foundation of Jamaica paid a Courtesy Call on Her Excellency the Most Honourable Lady Allen, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Led by Dr. Leesha Schaaffe, Youth Health Advocate, the delegation engaged in meaningful dialogue on the National School Nutrition Policy, healthy school food environments, and broader strategies for fostering wellness…

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Swearing-in Ceremony for State Ministers

A new cohort of 13 Ministers of State and one Parliamentary Secretary took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office, administered by His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General of Jamaica, during a ceremony at King’s House. These appointees will support the work of the Government across key ministries, including Finance,…

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Group Presentation of Credentials

His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen, received Letters of Credence from three Ambassadors during the Group Presentation of Credentials Ceremony held on Thursday, September 18, at King’s House. In welcoming them, His Excellency congratulated the Ambassadors and encouraged them to engage with Jamaican leaders, foster collaboration, and immerse themselves in the nation’s rich culture.…

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Cabinet Ministers’ Swearing-in Ceremony

Eighteen (18) Cabinet Ministers took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office, administered by His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General of Jamaica, during a ceremony yesterday at King’s House. Each Minister will be entrusted with key responsibilities across critical portfolios such as finance, justice, health, education, national security, tourism, and agriculture. In his…

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Prime Minister’s Swearing-in Ceremony

Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness was sworn in yesterday as Prime Minister of Jamaica for the fourth time. His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General of Jamaica, administered the Oath of Office and the Oath of Allegiance during the ceremony at King’s House. Dr. Holness first became Jamaica’s youngest Prime Minister in 2011 and has…

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Swearing-in Ceremony of Judges (Michaelmas Term)

Today, His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen appointed ten (10) members of the Judiciary during the Swearing-in Ceremony held at King’s House. Of these, five received substantive appointments, while others will serve in an acting capacity. In his remarks, Sir Patrick noted that their appointments reflect not only legal intellect but also the nation’s trust in…

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Governor-General Reappoints Mr. Hugh Faulkner as Director of INDECOM

His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General, reappointed Mr. Hugh B. Faulkner as Director of the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) for a second 5-year term. Mr. Faulkner was first appointed on July 29, 2020. A distinguished attorney, he previously served for 12 years as Executive Director of the Legal Aid Council. As…

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Ambassador-designate of the Dominican Republic to Jamaica presented the Letters of Credence to the Governor-General

Mr. Manuel Antonio Durán Pilarte, ambassador-designate of the Dominican Republic to Jamaica, presented the Letters of Credence to His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen today at King’s House. Ambassador Durán Pilarte is a seasoned consultant with over 35 years of experience in auditing, finance, and corporate advising. He has served as Consul General in both Miami…

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Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Slovenia to Jamaica presented Letters of Credence to the Governor-General

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen received the Letters of Credence from Mr. Andrej Rode, Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Slovenia to Jamaica, today at King’s House. Ambassador Rode is a seasoned diplomat currently serving as Slovenia’s Permanent Representative to the International Civil Aviation Organisation and Ambassador to Canada, with concurrent accreditation to Cuba. His career…

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Mr. Lennox Anderson-Jackson installed as Custos Rotulorum for the parish of Hanover

His Excellency, The Governor-General, presented the Grand Commission and Magistrates’ Roll to Custos Lennox Anderson-Jackson during the Installation Ceremony today, formally entrusting him with the responsibility of leading and guiding the Justices of the Peace in the Parish of Hanover. During the ceremony, His Excellency conferred on Custos Anderson-Jackson, the National Honour, the Order of…

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High Commissioner-designate of the Republic of Kenya presented Letters of Credence to the Governor-General

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen received the Letters of Credence from Ms. Everlyne Mwenda Karisa, High Commissioner-designate of the Republic of Kenya. Ambassador Mwenda Karisa’s career spanned diplomacy and public administration, marked by her proficiency in governance, policy dissemination, and community engagement. Notably, she contributed to civic education with the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission,…

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University students from the GraceKennedy Jamaican Birthright Programme meet with His Excellency

His Excellency the Governor-General welcomed university students from the GraceKennedy Jamaican Birthright Programme to King’s House on Tuesday, July 8. The initiative offers second and third-generation Jamaicans from the U.S., U.K., and Canada a month-long internship experience in Jamaica, blending professional development with cultural immersion. This is a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with their roots,…

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Southern Oregon University students meet with the Governor-General

On Thursday, June 27, His Excellency the Governor-General welcomed students and faculty from Southern Oregon University to King’s House as part of their Democracy Project visit to Jamaica. During the courtesy call, the group engaged in a meaningful exchange on the role of higher education in shaping democratic societies. His Excellency shared insights on Jamaica’s…

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Governor-General’s Achievement Awards 2025

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen addressed awardees and guests at The Governor-General’s Achievement Awards (GGAA) Ceremony yesterday at King’s House, highlighting the transformative power of excellence and purposeful impact. “All 37 of today’s awardees remind us that excellence is not an accident. It is cultivated, often against great odds, and it flourishes when grounded in…

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Scout Association of Jamaica: Courtesy Call

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen received representatives of the Scout Association of Jamaica on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at King’s House. The delegation was led by Mr. Garth Russell, Chief Commissioner, who formally introduced the newly elected Chief Commissioner, Mr. Kevin Richards, to His Excellency. Also in attendance were Mr. John Leiba (Chairman, Executive) and…

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Morgan State University professor and students visit King’s House

On Thursday, June 5, 2025, students from Morgan State University, led by Ras Dr. Wayne A. Rose, Lecturer in African Diaspora and American History and President of The UBUNTU Movement USA, visited King’s House as part of their Study Abroad programme in Jamaica. The immersive tour offered insights into the historical and cultural significance of…

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National Chorale of Jamaica Medal of Excellence Awards at King’s House

On Sunday, May 25, King’s House proudly hosted the National Chorale of Jamaica Medal of Excellence Awards, an evening dedicated to honouring six (6) outstanding individuals whose artistry and service have shaped Jamaica’s musical heritage. Established in 1972, the National Chorale of Jamaica is a premier vocal ensemble committed to preserving and showcasing Jamaica’s rich…

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National Union of Co-operative Societies Ltd: Courtesy Call

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen welcomed representatives of the National Union of Co-operative Societies Ltd. (NUCS) for a Courtesy Call on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at King’s House. The visit formed part of the observance of the United Nations International Year of Co-operatives (IYC 2025) and focused on plans to reengage national support for inclusive, community-driven…

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Jamaica Teachers’ Association meets with Lady Allen

Her Excellency Lady Allen welcomed senior members of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) to King’s House on Friday, May 9, in celebration of Education Week 2025 and Read Across Jamaica Day. The delegation, led by JTA President Dr. Mark Smith, shared updates on the Association’s initiatives and its ongoing commitment to shaping education in Jamaica.…

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Titchfield High School Courtsey Call & Luncheon

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen welcomed the 2025 School Challenge Quiz champions, Titchfield High School, to King’s House on Thursday, May 8, for a Courtesy Call and Luncheon held in their honour. The Portland-based institution, Jamaica’s fifth-oldest high school, boasts a proud legacy of academic excellence. Led by team captain Alex Anderson, alongside Quain Smith,…

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Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Panama to Jamaica Presented Letters of Credence and Recall to His Excellency

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen received the Letters of Credence and Recall from Mr Pedro Antonio Sitton Ureta, Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Panama to Jamaica. Ambassador Sitton Ureta is an experienced legal and diplomatic professional who has served in key international roles and represented Panama at over 100 major global meetings, including those organised…

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Jamaica Enrolled Nurses Association Courtesy Call

On Tuesday, May 6, Her Excellency Lady Allen welcomed leaders of the Jamaica Enrolled Nurses Association (JENA) to King’s House in celebration of the organisation’s 52nd Anniversary. Led by President Mrs. Claudette Clarke-Waugh, the group shared highlights of JENA’s ongoing work to advance the nursing profession and presented Her Excellency with a special plaque in…

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St. Catherine High School Visits King’s House

Social Studies and History teachers and students from St. Catherine High School visited King’s House on Monday, May 5, where they met with His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen and Major Dwayne Hill, the Governor-General’s Secretary. They received an engaging and informative overview of Jamaica’s journey to independence, the role of the Monarchy, and the functions…

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Foundation Preparatory School Tours King’s House

On Tuesday, April 25, 2025, Foundation Preparatory School embarked on an educational visit to King’s House. Led by their Principal, Ms. Latoya Bennett, students, staff, and parents had the opportunity to explore the residence of the Governor-General and its beautiful grounds. 

The tour sparked curiosity and offered students a deeper understanding of Jamaica’s cultural and…

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Annual Custodes Meeting & Luncheon 2025

On Tuesday, March 25, His Excellency was honoured to host the Annual Custodes Meeting and Luncheon at King’s House. The day commenced with the Custodes presenting their Annual Reports to the Governor-General, per Section 18 of the Custos Rotulorum Act. Following the meeting, a luncheon was held, during which His Excellency expressed his profound appreciation…

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Lady Allen’s Day 2025: Horace Clarke High School

Her Excellency The Most Hon. Lady Allen attended the Awards Ceremony at Horace Clarke High School yesterday to convey her greetings, emphasising the theme “Rising to the Challenge” in celebration of Lady Allen Day. This annual event, initiated in 2016, serves to acknowledge the achievements of students and the dedication of staff, showcasing the school’s…

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Consular Corps Executive Officers: Courtesy Call

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen welcomed Mr. Andrew Issa, Dean of the Consular Corps of Jamaica, along with the newly appointed Executive Officers for the 2025/2026 administration, during a courtesy call yesterday at King’s House. The Consular Corps plays a vital role in Jamaica’s diplomatic and economic landscape, working closely with the Ministry of Foreign…

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Diplomatic Corps Dinner 2025

Their Excellencies had the distinct honour of welcoming several High Commissioners and Ambassadors to King’s House for the climax event of Diplomatic Week. The evening, aptly named “Diplomatic Dinner,” provided a memorable occasion to strengthen bonds and foster global cooperation. It was an expression of gratitude for their service to their nations and for working…

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Group Presentation of Credentials 2025

His Excellency The Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen received Letters of Credence from nine Ambassadors and one High Commissioner at the Group Presentation of Credentials Ceremony today at King’s House. He congratulated them and invited participation with Jamaican leaders, collaboration, and cultural immersion. This ceremony is part of Diplomatic Week, organised by the Ministry of Foreign…

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Royal Commonwealth Day 2025

Commonwealth Day Celebrations were held today at King’s House under the theme “Together We Thrive.” This event, organised by the Royal Commonwealth Society, aims to highlight the strength of collaboration among member states, fostering resilience, innovation, and shared success. His Majesty The King’s Commonwealth Day Message was delivered by Ms. Varie Curtis, CD, Senior Executive…

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Kiwanis International: Courtesy Call

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen welcomed Mr Lee Kan Yong, Kiwanis International President, Mrs Pamela Rodney-White, Kiwanis Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District Governor, and other representatives for a courtesy call on Monday, February 24 at King’s House. The discussion highlighted Kiwanis International’s longstanding commitment to service, goodwill, and community development in Jamaica and beyond.…

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Jamaica Paralympic Association Ltd: Courtesy Call

Mr. Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, and his associates met with The Hon. Steadman Fuller, Deputy Governor-General, to discuss the future of Paralympic sports in Jamaica. The meeting focused on strengthening opportunities for athletes with disabilities through initiatives like the Grassroots Project, a program to enhance sports development, accessibility, and inclusion in…

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Roman Catholic Archbishop: Courtesy Call

His Eminence Cardinal Gualtiero Bassetti, Emeritus Archbishop of Perugia, along with His Grace, the Most Rev. Archbishop Kenneth Richards, Archbishop of Kingston, and other members of the clergy, met with The Hon. Steadman Fuller, Deputy Governor-General on Monday, February 3. Their discussions centered on strengthening faith-based initiatives, the role of the Church in social development,…

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Investiture Ceremony of the Poet Laureate 2025-2028

The Honourable Steadman Fuller, Deputy Governor-General, invested Professor Kwame Dawes, CD, as Jamaica’s Poet Laureate for 2025-2028. Born in Ghana and raised in Jamaica, Professor Dawes has authored over 30 works exploring identity, history, and culture across the Caribbean, Africa, and North America. The Poet Laureate is a prestigious role celebrating Jamaica’s finest poets and…

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45th Annual National Leadership Prayer Breakfast

The Honourable Steadman Fuller, Deputy Governor-General, stood alongside ministers at the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast, where they lifted up the nation’s leaders before the Lord. Under the inspiring theme “Righteousness Exalts a Nation,” we were reminded of the foundation of true greatness—integrity, service, and unwavering faith. 

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National Day Of Prayer Service 2025

The Honourable Steadman Fuller, Deputy Governor-General, joined ministers and clergymen from various denominations at the National Arena for a day of prayer. Across the island, churches lifted their voices in unity, seeking God’s healing for families and the nation. Together, they prayed for peace, restoration, and love to flow through every home and community. Strengthened…

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Swearing-in Of Judges (Hilary Term)

The Honourable Steadman Fuller, CD, JP, Deputy Governor-General, appointed five (5) judges for the Hillary Term at King’s House. These judges will serve in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. The judges sworn-in were: •Judge of Appeal:The Honourable Mr. Justice Kissock Laing •Acting Judge of Appeal:The Honourable Mrs. Justice Georgiana Fraser •Acting Puisne…

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HIS EXCELLENCY SIR PATRICK ALLEN ADMITTED FOR ELECTIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURE

King’s House, Jamaica—The Office of the Governor-General advises that on Monday, December 16, 2024, His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen will undergo an elective spinal surgery to alleviate the debilitating and painful effect of his condition. During His Excellency’s recovery, the Honourable Steadman Fuller, Custos Rotulorum for Kingston, will deputise to ensure the…

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  GOVERNOR-GENERAL SWEARING IN OF CARIBBEAN COURT OF JUSTICE JUDGE 

 PRESS RELEASE  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  October 29, 2024  GOVERNOR-GENERAL SWEARING IN OF CARIBBEAN COURT OF JUSTICE JUDGE  King’s House, Jamaica– His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen, yesterday swore in The Honourable Madame Justice Chantal Ononaiwu as judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).  The ceremony occurred on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, in the Ballroom at…

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Career Opportunities

Didn’t get a chance to apply before? Now’s your opportunity! The Office of the Governor-General is actively seeking new candidates who are committed to excellence. If you have the qualifications and the drive to make a difference, we encourage you to apply today. Don’t wait—applications close on Monday, October 30, 2024. Seize this moment to…

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GOVERNOR-GENERAL SWORE IN NEW CUSTOS OF ST ANN

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 16, 2024                                     King’s House, Jamaica– Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen appointed Mr Joseph Isaa as the Custos Rotulorum for the parish of St Ann at a Swearing-In Ceremony held at King’s House on Monday 16 September 2024. Mr. Issa who succeeds The Honourable Norma Walters, is a businessman who has…

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Five Jamaicans in Diaspora receive Governor-General Achievement Awards

Kingston, Jamaica- June 20, 2024 Five Jamaicans living overseas have been honoured with the 2024 Governor-General’s Achievement Award (GGAA) to recognise their outstanding contributions to Jamaica and the Diaspora during the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Conference Centre on June 19, 2024. This year’s recipients are Steven Getten and Mark Henry…

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Catherine, Princess of Wales

News Release: Governor-General offers Catherine Princess of Wales wishes on behalf of the Jamaican people amid her recent health diagnosis

26th March 2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE King’s House, Jamaica The Office of the Governor-General of Jamaica wishes to convey its sincere thoughts and warm wishes to Her Royal Highness, the Princess of Wales, following the announcement of her recent health diagnosis. On behalf of the people of Jamaica, His Excellency has expressed profound empathy and…

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News Release- Swearing-In of Judges (Hilary Term)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 8, 2024 Governor-General swears-in Judges for the Hilary Term  King’s House, Jamaica– Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen today swore in twelve judges.  The Judges have been appointed to the Supreme and Appeals Courts for the Hillary Term.  “You are the standard-bearers of justice, and your actions should inspire trust and confidence in…

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The Governor-General Inducts 54 new ‘I Believe’ Initiative Ambassadors

His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen welcomed 54 new ambassadors to the network of over three hundred (300) ‘I Believe’ Initiative Ambassadors. The newly inducted ambassadors represent each county- Cornwall, Middlesex and Surrey, Launched by His Excellency in 2011, the ‘I Believe’ Initiative delivers and promotes community-led interventions that support education, empower young…

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Argentine Ambassador-Designate Presents Credentials to Governor-General

Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen received letters of Credence from Ambassador-designate of the Argentine Republic, Mr. Marcelo Angel Balbi Calvo, during a ceremony at King’s House on Thursday, 23rd November 2023. His Excellency congratulated Ambassador Calvo on his new assignment and recounted Jamaica’s long diplomatic history with Argentina and Jamaica’s love for football attributed in a…

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Swiss Confederation Ambassador-Designate Presents Letters of Credence

The Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen received Letters of Credence from the ambassador-designate of the Kingdom of Sweden, Mr. Stefano Vescovi, during a ceremony at King’s House on Thursday, 23rd November 2023. His Excellency, congratulated Ambassador Vescovi on his new assignment as non-resident Ambassador, noting that this is his first Ambassadorial appointment.  The ambassador-designate…

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2024 Jamaica Rhodes Scholar Selected

Nile Anderson, 26, is the 2024 Jamaica Rhodes Scholar. He was selected from a field of 11 candidates at King’s House on Thursday 9th November 2023. In making the announcement, Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, who headed the Selection Committee, expressed admiration for the caliber of candidates who vied for the prestigious Scholarship. Sir Patrick said,…

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Governor-General Opens Bucknor Community Internet & Homework Centre  

Bucknor, Clarendon – Governor-General His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen officially unveiled the Bucknor Community Internet and Homework Centre on October 31st, marking a significant milestone for the community. “This centre stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we unite our resources and strength for a common cause,” stated Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen…

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Governor-General Pays Tribute to Lascelles Chin

Governor-General, His Excellency, Sir Patrick Allen, has expressed shock and regret at the passing of the Honourable Lascelles Chin, OJ, CD, describing him as a patriot, an astute businessman, dedicated philanthropist, and gentle giant whose dignity, enthusiasm, and compassion were legendary. Sir Patrick said Mr. Chin was a visionary whose bold initiatives had a profound…

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GOVERNOR-GENERAL AWARDS CUSTODES WITH MEDAL OF HONOUR

King’s House, Jamaica – Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, presented The Governor-General’s Medal of Honour to past and present Custodes during a specially organized luncheon at King’s House on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. The Governor-General’s Medals of Honour were commissioned by the Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second in recognition of her Platinum Jubilee Celebrations. A…

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King Charles III Sends Birthday Greeting to Sir Patrick Allen

His Majesty King Charles III has sent birthday greetings to The Governor-General of Jamaica, His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen. The King expressed his appreciation for His Excellency’s service as Governor-General. He praised his commitment to enhancing youth engagement and educational opportunities in Jamaica through his experience as a teacher and principal. The…

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Governor-General Swears-in 7 Judges for Hilary Term

His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen on 6th January 2023, swore in seven (7) judges for the Hilary Term. The judges were: Puisne Judges Her Honour Mrs. Annmarie Lawrence-Grainger Miss Althea Jarrett Acting Puisne Judges Master Stephany Orr Her Honour Miss Opal Smith His Honour Mr. Dale Staple Masters-in-Chambers Her Honour Miss Sherna Reid Miss Carla…

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Governor-General proclaims 7th January as ‘UWI Day’

King’s House, Jamaica – His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen has issued a Proclamation marking 7th January 2023 as ‘UWI Day’.  The Proclamation was presented by Sir Patrick to Professor Dale Webber, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the West Indies this morning. The Proclamation invites all citizens of Jamaica to “reflect on the…

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