The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) says its deeply concerned about the persistent logistical and  infrastructural challenges surrounding the hosting of large-scale entertainment and sporting events .

It points  particularly to events along the high-traffic corridors between Ocho Rios, St. Ann and Montego Bay, St. James. 

The PSOJ’s Sports and Entertainment Development Committee (SEDC), says the recent traffic standstill observed during reggae Sumfest in mid-July and similar disruptions during the Emancipation and Independence weekend  festivities in Discovery Bay and other areas of St. Ann, are clear indicators of systemic gaps that need urgent national attention.

It says in addition to these issues in northern Jamaica, the recurring traffic congestion around the national stadium during major events further underscores the need for better traffic planning and coordination. 

The organisation says these persistent challenges highlight the broader need for properly zoned and managed event spaces islandwide.

It notes that the events have the potential to earn billions, in economic activity, spanning tourism, hospitality, transportation, retail, and creative industries, driving tourism and foreign exchange and  creating jobs, stimulate MSME growth, and support community-based economic activity. 

However, the committee says  the full realization of their economic potential is being undermined by inadequate infrastructure, lack of designated event zones, and absence of a coherent national framework to manage  the growth of the entertainment and sports sectors in a productive and sustainable way.

Chairman of the SEDC, Dave Cameron is calling  on the government to engage the private sector  seriously to ensure that this vital industry grows with a vision and proper planning as efforts continue to grow the tourism industry.

He says it is only through  meaningful collaboration that both the private and public sectors can unlock the full economic potential and avoid repeating the avoidable missteps of the past.

 The PSOJ believes that with the right mix of infrastructure development, policy modernization, and strategic investment, the sports and entertainment industries can become even more powerful engines of GDP growth, job creation, and national pride.