Jamaica is a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) with geography and geology that makes it especially vulnerable to both natural and man-made hazards. Jamaica’s climate data projections (as outlined in the State of the Jamaican Climate Vol. III, 2022) show that average temperature is projected to increase by 0.65-0.84°C by the 2030s, while rainfall levels will decrease by up to 9 per cent in the 2050s. Further, it is projected that Jamaica will experience an 80 per cent increase in category 4 and 5 hurricanes resulting in projected sea level rise of between 0.26- 0.82 m by 2100. Accordingly, Jamaica can expect extreme weather events to become more frequent and more intense, resulting in greater impacts on the environment, economy and population.

The Climate Change Division (CCD) of the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC), which was established in 2012, has the broad mandate of coordinating the country’s response to climate change locally, regionally, and internationally. It has the responsibility of ensuring that systems, institutions, and monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are in place to
address climate change as an inclusive development priority that empowers local communities and strengthen resilience, especially in the most vulnerable populations.

Our audit of Jamaica’s progress towards the implementation of climate adaptation plans and actions supports Goal 4 and National Outcomes 13 and 14 of Vision 2030 Jamaica National Development Plan, which recognizes the importance of addressing climate-related challenges and integrating sustainable practices into the country’s development trajectory. Specifically, our audit will seek to determine whether the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) is on track for the implementation of climate change adaptation actions and plans. The effectiveness of climate related spending and appropriate utilisation of the resources are important for taxpayers and international relations.

We will also examine select climate change projects funded by the GOJ and Multilateral Agencies to determine whether key outputs were efficiently and effectively delivered. Our evaluation also extends to determining whether the input of key stakeholders was considered in the planning and implementation of priority actions, and the extent to which there was efficient coordination and collaboration with other MDAs, NGOs, local communities, including the vulnerable.

We value your relevant comments to our audit which can be communicated by completing the relevant fields on our feedback form or email us at audgen@auditorgeneral.gov.jm. Please note that due to the volume of information received, we may not respond to you directly; however, we thank you in advance for your response.