Simpson-Miller, took the oath of allegiance to her country before thousands of people, including top Caribbean leaders, Nation of Islam's Louis Farrakhan and Essence magazine Editorial Director, Susan Taylor.

"The first pledge I make as prime minister is to advance human rights and individual liberties. Each individual is sacred and none is better than the other," said Simpson-Miller, 60, who received loud cheers from her supporters at the swearing-in on the lawns of King's House.

"I pledge to work tirelessly to end all corruption and extortion. Both of these diminish our economic potential and I will do everything in my power to break the power of the criminals."

A longtime member of parliament who represented some of Jamaica's poorest neighbourhoods, Simpson-Miller beat three opponents to take over leadership of the ruling People's National Party from P.J. Patterson, who led Jamaica for the past 14 years.

She said her ascension to Jamaica's leadership post was "a true manifestation of the Jamaican dream. This indicates that any child, regardless of circumstances, can rise to the top."

Simpson-Miller has also pledged to work with the opposition and her supporters say they hope that her becoming the first female prime minister will inspire others in a country where about 12 per cent of political posts are held by women.

Simpson Miller's supporters say they hope that her becoming the first female prime minister will inspire others in a country where about 12 per cent of political posts are held by women. (AP)