MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica (JIS) —–
State Minister for Tourism and Entertainment, Damion Crawford, said the Ministry will be introducing an artist ambassadors programme to assist in the promotion of destination Jamaica.
Addressing the closing session of the 6th Tourism Outlook Seminar at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St. James on Friday (November 21), Crawford said that the Ministry will be seeking the support of an initial four travelling Jamaican entertainers under the initiative.
“In the next two months (we will) embark on what we call our artist ambassador. This is where travelling artists will be (urged) to ask their fans and their supporters to visit Jamaica and also to tweet and inform persons of the different attractions, amenities, accommodations and even specials that Jamaica has to offer,” Crawford explained.
He said individuals will be asked to apply to the Ministry for inclusion in the programme, and the final four will be selected after a careful review of their strength in the industry, as well as on social media.
“We intend to start with four artists on an application basis, where the artists will understand what their responsibilities are, and also what we are doing to ensure that they …get further exposure in the (foreign) markets”.
Crawford said the move is part of efforts by the Ministry to use the entertainment and culture industries to bring more visitors to the island.
He cited the Jamrock Summer promotion “90 ways in 90 days” as one such example. The promotion seeks to reduce the seasonality of the tourism industry by inviting persons to come to Jamaica between May 15 and August 15 each year, to enjoy various festivals, concerts and performances.
Crawford, in the meantime, is reminding artistes to sign up on the Entertainment Registry, which will ensure that their services can be legitimately sold and that the government is aware of their existence.
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