Overview

The Squatter Management Unit (SMU) is tasked with the development of an integrated and
comprehensive regulatory framework to facilitate the government’s response to squatting in
Jamaica. It also acts as a central coordinating body for stakeholders, liaising with government
ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and private sector stakeholders to harmonize efforts in
addressing squatting.

One of the key objectives of the SMU is the development of a National Squatter Management
Policy and Implementation Plan (NSMPIP). The policy, when completed, will guide Jamaica’s
response to the proliferation of squatter settlements, which have posed significant social,
economic, and environmental challenges to Jamaica. The NSMPIP is founded on seven (7) core
principles and values that embody the vision of a “squatter-free Jamaica” and promote sound land
management practices. The policy aims to reduce incidences of squatting, prevent further
squatting, enhance living conditions in existing squatter settlements, facilitate the provision of
security of tenure, and promote sustainable land use practices for the benefit of all citizens.

Research and data collection are important components of the SMU’s operations. Through
initiatives such as the National Squatter Survey (NSS), the SMU collects and analyses data on the
profile, trends, and challenges of squatter settlements. This data has been instrumental in the
development of the Squatter Management GIS Portal, which includes an interactive map and
various data analysis tools. As of March 2024, the NSS has been completed for all parishes except
St. James and St. Catherine, while the survey for Kingston and St. Andrew is in progress. The
Squatter Management GIS Portal will be further developed to allow public access, enabling users
to report squatting activities, access information, and receive updates on the SMU’s initiatives
thereby fostering public participation in the management of squatting.