The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has entered into a landmark agreement with the JN Foundation, the Global Road Safety Partnership (GRSP), and the FIA Foundation to launch a national programme aimed at improving motorcycle safety through stricter enforcement of helmet laws.
The agreement was formalised during the recent ‘Heads-Up!’ Regional Think Tank held at the AC Hotel in New Kingston. Hosted by the National Helmet Wearing Coalition—a project of the JN Foundation in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council and funded by the FIA Foundation—the forum marked a pivotal moment in Jamaica’s fight against road traffic fatalities.
The two-year training programme will focus on equipping law enforcement with the tools, training, and leadership development necessary to improve helmet use compliance. It aims to reduce the high incidence of motorcycle-related deaths and serious injuries, particularly those caused by the non-use of standard-approved helmets.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Dr Gary McKenzie, who signed on behalf of the JCF, underscored the life-saving impact of helmets.
“When we look at what we have gathered, over 75 per cent of those who died suffered serious head injuries. That tells us their heads weren’t protected,” McKenzie said.
“We must ensure everyone—riders, passengers, families, and communities—understands the importance of helmets. Helmets save lives.”
Parris Lyew-Ayee, Chairman of the JN Foundation, hailed the signing as a milestone of national and regional importance.
“This agreement is much more than a procedural step—it’s a powerful statement of unity and commitment to protecting lives,” Lyew-Ayee said. “We believe this partnership will further empower the JCF to be a ‘force for good’, promoting motorcycle safety and upholding standards that save lives.”
Dave Cliff, CEO of the GRSP, praised the collaboration as a model initiative in global road safety.
“This bold initiative pairs enforcement with education and engagement—an effective combination for changing behaviour. Jamaica is sending a strong signal that it is serious about tackling preventable road traffic injuries,” Cliff said.
Delroy Simpson, Chief Technical Director at the Ministry of National Security, speaking on behalf of Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Dr Horace Chang, noted that while helmet enforcement has improved, sustained behavioural change will require both enforcement and education.
“We must engage our communities, particularly our young men, to change perceptions and encourage responsible riding,” Simpson said.
The signing parties committed to rapid and coordinated implementation of the programme, with support mechanisms including communication strategies, funding, legislative advocacy, and stakeholder mobilisation.
The initiative comes at a time when motorcycle-related crashes remain a major public health concern in Jamaica and across the region.
