Reggae star Buju Banton has made a significant financial donation to the Accompong Town Maroons, contributing US$200,000 (approximately J$31 million) for infrastructure and economic development in the north-western St. Elizabeth community.

The donation was announced on Tuesday night during the Washington leg of Buju Banton’s Overcomer tour at the Capital One Arena. Members of the Accompong Town Maroon Culture group joined him onstage for the presentation.

Accompong Maroon Chief Richard Currie expressed deep gratitude in an Instagram post on Wednesday, acknowledging Buju Banton’s generosity. Currie also shared images and videos of the donation ceremony. Although he was unable to attend, Currie highlighted that Avion Barnes, the Abeng blower for the Accompong Maroon Cultural group, accepted the cheque on behalf of the community.

Currie praised Buju Banton, whose given name is Mark Myrie, for his ongoing support and commitment to the Maroon community. “On behalf of the Maroons of the Sovereign State of Accompong, I extend our heartfelt thanks to Buju Banton for this generous donation towards our infrastructure development and economic mobility,” Currie wrote.

The Chief lauded Buju Banton as a cultural icon and a beacon of Maroon heritage. “Buju Banton has been chosen by the ancestors for this great walk. His legacy as a freedom fighter and his support of our community is both historic and inspiring,” Currie continued.

Buju Banton’s support for the Accompong Maroons began in 2021 when he publicly endorsed Chief Currie in his bid to lead the Maroons. In October of the same year, Buju donated two horses and a tractor to aid in the community’s sustainable development and self-reliance efforts.

Currie noted that Buju Banton, who affirmed his Maroon heritage in 2021, has consistently championed his culture through his music and philanthropic efforts. “Buju Banton has always celebrated his identity and culture, using his platform to support the Accompong Maroons and indigenous communities,” Currie said.

In recognition of his contributions, Buju Banton was appointed Cultural Ambassador for the Accompong Maroons. Currie highlighted that Buju’s role extends beyond performance, advocating for indigenous rights and representing his people on the global stage.

“Ambassador Myrie, known globally as Buju Banton, has returned to the United States to share his legendary music with his fans after 15 years. As a cultural ambassador, he continues to champion the cause of indigenous rights, particularly for the Accompong Maroons,” Currie concluded. “Honor Ambassador Myrie. God is the Greatest.”

Buju Banton’s latest donation underscores his commitment to the Accompong Maroons and his enduring influence as a cultural and philanthropic figure.