The UK Government has significantly increased its humanitarian aid to Jamaica and the Caribbean, allocating an additional £5 million in emergency funding, bringing the total to £7.5 million. This funding is aimed at supporting recovery efforts following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The aid package includes over 3,000 shelter kits and 1,500 solar-powered lanterns to assist those whose homes have been damaged and those without electricity. The UK is collaborating with the World Food Programme and the Red Cross to ensure that emergency relief reaches the most affected communities. UK humanitarian and technical experts have been deployed to the region to coordinate and deliver aid effectively. Emergency supplies were prepositioned in Antigua & Barbuda to facilitate rapid deployment. Part of the funding will match public donations up to £1 million to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) appeal for Jamaica. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the UK’s commitment to providing essential supplies and supporting recovery efforts. Loyce Pace, IFRC Regional Director for the Americas, expressed gratitude for the UK’s support, highlighting its role in restoring homes, livelihoods, and preparing for future disasters. British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert, noted the UK’s efforts to expand relief operations and support vulnerable communities. The UK is also coordinating with travel companies to restore flights for holidaymakers and British nationals, with a specialist Rapid Deployment Team providing consular assistance. The UK is working with international partners, including CDEMA and UN agencies, to ensure effective humanitarian assistance. Additionally, pre-agreed financial instruments have been established with Caribbean governments and multilateral banks to expedite recovery in Jamaica and Haiti.
UK deploys additional £5 million in emergency humanitarian funding for Jamaica and the Caribbean
