Oh Jamaica, Jamaica!

As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, memories of past storms like Hurricane Gilbert in 1988 resurface, highlighting the stark contrast between then and now. In 1988, the internet was in its infancy, and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality were mere science fiction. Today, the digital age provides real-time updates and harrowing images of Melissa’s impending impact, amplifying the sense of urgency and fear. The Caribbean, often referred to as a ‘zone of peace,’ now faces a critical test of its unity and mutual cooperation. Jamaica, no stranger to hurricanes, is bracing for the storm, but concerns linger about the nation’s ability to withstand the devastation, particularly in impoverished and underdeveloped areas. The author reflects on the disproportionate impact natural disasters have on the most vulnerable populations and calls for solidarity among Caribbean nations. Trinidad and Tobago’s response to Jamaica’s plight post-Melissa will be a litmus test for regional cooperation, especially as the country pursues its own economic agenda. The letter concludes with a heartfelt plea for Jamaica’s safety and recovery, underscoring the fragility of human resilience in the face of nature’s fury.