SBAJ President Garnet Reid
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Garnett Reid, President of the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ)
Jamaica's prolonged dry spell is taking a toll on small businesses, with the president of the Small Business Association on Jamaica (SBAJ), Garnet Reid, warning that the water shortage is now creating a crisis for the economy.
Speaking Thursday afternoon on Radio Jamaica's Real Business, Mr. Reid said the situation requires urgent intervention from the government as the continued water shortage could have wider implications for the economy.
He said small businesses such as restaurants, car washes, and Airbnb operators are among those being affected, stating Jamaica must also find ways to better manage and store its water resources.
"Again, we need to have better planning where that is concerned.... The small businesses [contribute to] the growth of our economy, and we employ the majority of Jamaicans. And if we don't protect them now, the effects of this drought will be felt in every household. We need relief today and a resilent planning for tomorrow," he urged.
Mr. Reid noted that the country has outgrown its dams and reservoirs, arguing that more should be constructed to capture and channel water for use during periods of drought.
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