Jamaica Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett named to 2026 MIPAD Global Top 100
Global recognition honors leaders of African descent influencing the future of tourism and hospitality
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has been named to the Most Influential People of African Descent Global Top 100 Travel, Tourism & Hospitality Edition, Class of 2026. This places Jamaica among destinations recognized for leadership in the global tourism sector.
The honorees were announced on Global Africa Day through a collaboration between MIPAD and The Pyne Awards Africa. The annual list recognizes 100 people who are of African descent worldwide. Their work is advancing air travel, destination marketing, cultural storytelling and global hospitality.
Bartlett’s selection highlights Jamaica’s role in global tourism. It also reflects his work to support sustainable travel. He also aims to strengthen diaspora ties and build industry resilience. This is important for people in communities of African descent.
“This recognition is not just for me, but for Jamaica and for the people whose warmth, culture and resilience make our island the heart of global tourism,” Bartlett said. “Tourism must continue to be a vehicle for empowerment, for telling our stories and for connecting the African diaspora to opportunity.” Importantly, his words resonated with people of African descent everywhere.
Honorees are expected to be recognized at MIPAD events from October 2026 through January 2027. These include Lagos Diaspora Week and gatherings in New York, where celebration of achievements by people of African descent will take place.
Under Bartlett’s leadership, Jamaica’s tourism sector has gained global attention. It is known for visitor health and safety efforts. It also supports community-based tourism. This builds cross-border partnerships. These steps help keep the island a top vacation destination valued by people within the African Descent community worldwide.
