KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant demonstration of international solidarity, a high-level Ethiopian delegation arrived in Jamaica on Thursday to assess damage and explore avenues for supporting the island nation’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa. The delegation, spearheaded by His Excellency Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye, Ethiopia’s State Minister, was formally received at Jamaica House by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister.
The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations amidst a crisis. Senator Fitz-Henley publicly acknowledged and commended Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for initiating this supportive gesture. He emphasized the profound historical and cultural connections between the two nations, rooted in shared ancestry and heritage, which form the foundation for a robust and evolving partnership.
Key officials, including Permanent Secretary Ambassador Rocky Meade and Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Commander Alvin Gayle, contributed to the strategic discussions. The agenda focused on coordinating effective relief efforts and formulating a framework for long-term recovery assistance. Following the high-level talks, Ambassador Tsegaye was scheduled for an observational tour of the severely impacted parishes of St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland to evaluate the devastation firsthand and better direct Ethiopian support.