We acknowledge the significant contribution of this national treasure

DEVON HOUSE at 140 is still a remarkable beauty. Over the years, this celebrated Kingston landmark has become a popular gathering spot for visitors and locals alike. They come to tour the opulent 19th century home of George Stiebel, Jamaica’s first black millionaire; they come to relax and enjoy the expansive grounds of this city oasis; and they come for our world-celebrated Devon House ‘I Scream’, and other culinary experiences on offer.

Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage is the bedrock of our tourism industry and Devon House, as one of our important cultural assets, forms part of the growing trend of cultural tourism that offers tremendous opportunities for our island. Over recent decades, there has been a dramatic growth in the number of people who travel exclusively to immerse themselves in exotic cultures – visit historical sites and monuments, and experience the cuisine, creative arts and music – in faraway places.

Devon House, with its treasure trove of history, is a fine example of our cultural heritage in expression. In addition to being a historic landmark, there is plenty for patrons to see and do. The mansion offers package tours, there are a variety of shops with the finest locally made jewellery, arts and crafts and other artisan products available for purchase, and the immaculate lawns are a favourite for wedding photos and elegant events.

In 2017, Devon House was designated as the nation’s first gastronomy centre – a place to offer visitors and locals a one-of-a-kind experience with Jamaican and international cuisine. It was selected because of its offerings; it represents an important piece of our history, and it is in the centre of commerce, entertainment and culture of Jamaica’s cultural capital, Kingston.

The vision of the Devon House cultural experience was that of the late former prime minister of Jamaica, the Most Hon Edward Seaga. This heritage site falls directly under the support of the Ministry of Tourism and, as such, we have sought to stay true to this vision. Through the Tourism Enhancement Fund and the Tourism Product Development Company, we have partnered with the Devon House Development Company Limited to execute several projects aimed at maintaining the site and improving its aesthetic appeal.

As we chart a new course towards sustainable and inclusive recovery, we will be reimagining Jamaica’s tourism industry. We will be guided by the Ministry of Tourism’s Blue Ocean Strategy, which will allow us to meet our growth targets of five million visitors, $5 billion in earnings, and 5,000 new rooms by 2025.

We will be transforming the industry into a product-focused one, centred around interactive experiences. We will be leveraging our culture and heritage to tell the authentic Jamaican story; making music a more predominant and inclusive part of the visitor experience; and creating programmes to get visitors out of the hotels to connect with locals and enjoy uniquely Jamaican experiences.

This will be a win-win for everyone. Visitors will develop a deeper appreciation and respect for our culture and Jamaicans will benefit from increased opportunities to showcase and market their cultural and creative products and services through craft vending, street food establishments, food festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, and visits to museums, galleries and heritage sites.

As Devon House celebrates this remarkable milestone, we acknowledge the significant contribution of this national treasure to our tourism success. My heartfelt gratitude to the team at Devon House Development Limited for their hard work and commitment to preserving and promoting this premier cultural attraction.

HON EDMUND BARTLETT, CD, MP Minister of Tourism