CARICOM Leaders Pledge Support After Touring Hurricane-Hit Jamaica

In a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity, leaders from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) embarked on a one-day tour of hurricane-ravaged communities in western Jamaica on November 17. The delegation, which included heads of government from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, and Guyana, was accompanied by CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett and representatives from the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean. Their journey took them from Montego Bay to White House, Westmoreland, the epicenter of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, where they assessed the damage and engaged with affected residents. Leaders emphasized the symbolic and personal significance of their visit, highlighting the shared vulnerability of Caribbean nations to natural disasters. They expressed unwavering confidence in Jamaica’s resilience and ability to recover stronger. Barbados pledged a field hospital and additional garbage-removal trucks, while Guyana committed engineering support from its Defence Force, debris removal assistance, and 200 roofs for housing repairs. Other CARICOM member states and associate members also offered aid. The mission, supported by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and the Regional Security System (RSS), underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in rebuilding communities and enhancing disaster preparedness for future challenges.