In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has highlighted the critical role of Starlink satellite-based Internet systems in reconnecting families and alleviating concerns among the Jamaican diaspora. The hurricane, which struck on October 28, left 70% of the country without electricity and disrupted communication networks, prompting an influx of calls to the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC, from worried relatives seeking information about their loved ones.
Anderson announced that a team from Starlink’s headquarters is set to deploy Wi-Fi sites across Jamaica, enabling affected communities to access the internet and communicate with their families. While acknowledging the challenges faced by first responders, he urged patience and emphasized that the lack of communication does not necessarily indicate harm. He also praised the resilience of Jamaicans, noting that many have already found creative ways to inform the world of their safety.
The ambassador assured that the Jamaican government is prioritizing the restoration of communication and power infrastructure, with the Jamaica Public Service working to restore electricity in areas where the grid remains intact. Energy, Transport, and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz confirmed that the Universal Service Fund (USF) is rolling out Starlink systems to provide immediate broadband coverage in key western communities while terrestrial infrastructure is repaired.
Anderson expressed gratitude for the international support Jamaica has received and cautioned against fraudulent donation schemes, urging individuals to use verified channels for contributions. He emphasized the importance of unity and resilience as the country transitions from rescue to recovery efforts, stating, ‘We are a strong people, and as supplies flow in and relief efforts intensify, we will see that resilience in action.’