The Government of Jamaica marked a historic milestone on Saturday, April 25 at 9:30 pm (JA) |10:30 pm (CAN), when Niagara Falls was illuminated in the black, green, and gold of the Jamaican flag in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Canada–Jamaica Farm Work Programme.

The public could view the illumination live via 24/7 webcams, including:

• Niagara Falls live
• Clifton Hill live cam, which captures evening illumination and activity

These feeds provided real-time coverage of the Falls and surrounding areas, allowing Jamaicans at home and across the diaspora to witness the tribute.

The symbolic lighting forms part of a wider programme of commemorative activities honouring six decades of partnership between Jamaica and Canada under the SAWP, which began in 1966 with 264 Jamaican workers. The programme now provides opportunities for more than 9,000 workers annually.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, speaking on behalf of the Government of Jamaica, expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship between both countries: “The Government and people of Jamaica extend sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Canada for a partnership that has stood the test of time. For sixty years, this relationship has nurtured opportunities, sustained livelihoods, and strengthened the bonds between our nations.

”The impact of this Programme is not distant or abstract. It is felt in homes across Jamaica. It is seen in children who are better provided for, in families that have found stability, and in communities that have been built and sustained through hard work and sacrifice.”

Permanent Secretary with responsibility for the Overseas Employment Programme, Colette Roberts Risden, outlined the operational focus driving the Programme: “The strength of this Programme lies in disciplined execution. We manage a full system, from recruitment and vetting to deployment and on-site oversight.

“Standards are enforced, performance is monitored, and support structures are active in the field. That is how we protect our workers, maintain employer confidence, and secure Jamaica’s position in a competitive labour market.”

The illumination of Niagara Falls was part of a series of planned activities, including a church service held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 10:00 am (CAN) at the Cornerstone Community Church in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The 60th Anniversary Programme, led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the Jamaican Liaison Service in Canada, also includes a GOJ/SAWP scholarship programme, a documentary chronicling the Programme’s history, a National Day of Recognition for agricultural workers, and a series of other activities across Canada and Jamaica.

The minister will lead a delegation, along with Permanent Secretary Colette Roberts Risden, to participate in key commemorative and industry events in Canada. The delegation will engage government counterparts, employers, and sector partners, while formally conveying Jamaica’s gratitude on behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica.

These engagements will highlight the enduring partnership between Jamaica and Canada and reinforce the Government’s commitment to strengthening the Programme and the systems that support it.