INTRODUCTION TO JARA

The Jamaica Amateur Radio Association started in Jamaica in 1939, when radio was still in its infancy and communication was primitive by today's standards. During the past 80 years, Jamaican hams have contributed their time, skill and equipment during times of crises. Our organization comprises of a group of dedicated hams who operate within strict international guidelines and adhere to a well-established code of ethics. We have played a vital role in the close monitoring of all hurricanes affecting the Caribbean region, along with other disasters worldwide.

This was evident after the passing of Hurricane Gilbert, when Jamaican Hams were the first to communicate Internationally, relaying situation reports to the Miami Hurricane Center also health and welfare messages to concerned relatives. When Hurricane Hugo passed through the Islands of the Lesser Antilles, Jamaican Hams were airlifted to the affected areas, and working along with the military provided communications for their local government officials.