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In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which has been described as the most devastating hurricane to strike Jamaica, government agencies have ramped up their efforts to restore normalcy in the severely affected Catherine Hall and West Green communities. The clean-up operation, now in its second phase, focuses on removing remaining debris and implementing extensive sanitization measures. Minister Robert Morgan, responsible for works, highlighted the extensive damage, noting that floodwaters reached up to 10 feet, with mud levels in some areas as high as three feet. Over 700 truckloads of debris, including destroyed furniture, have already been removed by the National Solid Waste Management Authority. The second phase involves mobilizing community members, alongside agencies like China Harbour Engineering, the municipality, and the National Works Agency, to ensure thorough sanitization and debris removal. Minister Andrew Wheatley emphasized the collaborative efforts with various state agencies, including the National Water Commission and the fire brigade, to expedite the restoration process. Despite the significant losses suffered by residents, there is a collective gratitude that no lives were lost. The government is also focusing on public health risks, ensuring that areas posing health hazards are promptly addressed. Wheatley acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the disaster, with rivers overflowing and water levels reaching historic highs, and stressed the importance of learning from this experience to implement future mitigation strategies. The cost of the recovery efforts is yet to be finalized, but the central government is fully supporting the multi-agency initiative to bring relief to the affected communities.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has spearheaded a monumental recovery initiative in collaboration with the Building a Better Jamaica program and various partner organizations. This effort aims to assist affected communities in rebuilding and restoring normalcy.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has dealt a severe blow to Jamaica’s agriculture sector, leading to a sharp rise in food prices. Agriculture Minister Floyd Green disclosed on Tuesday that the hurricane caused staggering losses amounting to $29.5 billion, significantly impacting the nation’s food supply chain. This week, the Coronation Market in downtown Kingston witnessed heightened frustrations among buyers as prices for essential produce surged. Sweet and hot peppers are now priced at $1,500 per pound, while escallion ranges between $1,000 and $1,500 per pound. Thyme is being sold for $1,200 per pound, and tomatoes cost between $400 and $500 per pound. Vendors warn that prices are likely to escalate further as the Christmas season approaches, compounding the challenges faced by consumers.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, two families in St Elizabeth have been provided with new homes through the efforts of Custos of Clarendon, Edith Chin. The initiative, part of the Hurricane Melissa Relief Mission, saw the distribution of two prefabricated houses and essential supplies to Ashella Baker and Alludia Brown, both mothers whose homes were destroyed by the storm. The relief effort also included care packages for numerous other affected residents during a distribution event on November 13. Ashella Baker, a mother of six from Middle Quarters, expressed her gratitude, describing the arrival of the new home as a ‘miracle.’ Alludia Brown, a mother of two from Parottee, shared her relief and excitement at having a secure place for her family. The mission received support from Juici Patties, the Clarendon police, Clarendon Justices of the Peace, and other partners. Custos Chin emphasized the ongoing need for assistance, stating that two more houses will be gifted to families in need. Superintendent Coleridge Minto of the St Elizabeth Police Division praised the initiative, highlighting the comprehensive support provided, including water trucks, meals, and care packages. Senior Superintendent Shane McCalla of the Clarendon Police Division commended the collaborative effort and expressed hope for continued stakeholder involvement in the recovery process.

Gassan Azan Sr, a prominent Jamaican industrialist and distinguished Freemason, passed away on Friday afternoon at the age of 86 after battling a prolonged illness. Azan Sr was a key figure in Jamaica’s manufacturing sector during the 1970s and 1980s, owning and operating several notable companies, including Tiny Town Manufacturing, Cradle Craft Manufacturing, and Kandy Kane Manufacturing. Beyond his industrial achievements, he was also a dedicated coffee farmer and an active member of the Freemasons. Azan Sr was the father of Gassan Azan Jr, a renowned business magnate and the founder, chairman, and CEO of Bashco Trading Company Limited and its parent company, MegaMart Wholesale Club. His legacy as a pioneer in Jamaican industry and his contributions to agriculture and community organizations leave a lasting impact on the nation.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant portion of Liguanea Avenue in Kingston is scheduled for a temporary closure as part of the ongoing rehabilitation efforts under the National Works Agency’s (NWA) SPARK Programme. The closure, spanning from Paddington Terrace to Barbican Road, will commence on Monday, November 17, and last for 14 days. This initiative is a critical component of the NWA’s broader strategy to enhance road infrastructure in the Corporate Area. Stephen Shaw, Manager of Communication and Customer Services at the NWA, emphasized that the rehabilitation works involve strengthening the road base, resurfacing, and implementing additional infrastructure improvements. Shaw highlighted that these temporary closures are essential to ensure the safety of both workers and commuters while minimizing disruptions in the active work zone. During the closure, only residents will have access to the affected section of Liguanea Avenue. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes, with those traveling from Barbican Road directed to use Paddington Terrace to access Liguanea Avenue. Similarly, motorists coming from Hope Road are encouraged to utilize Paddington Terrace to reach their destinations. The NWA urges all road users to adhere to posted signs and exercise caution when navigating the area.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Marcarius “Macky” Monroe, the primary suspect in the fatal shooting of two police officers on Thursday evening along Waltham Park Road in St Andrew, has voluntarily surrendered to authorities. Monroe, a resident of Ricketts Crescent in Kingston 13, turned himself in at the Hunts Bay Police Station on Friday afternoon.