CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett praised Jamaica. She commended the nation’s strong engagement in community matters. This happened during Jamaica’s Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts. Dr. Barnett spoke at a key meeting. It was the 56th Meeting of the Community Council of Ministers. The meeting occurred on December 16, 2025.
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica with immense force. It was a Category 5 hurricane. Landfall occurred on October 28, 2025. The storm brought winds up to 185 mph. It was the strongest hurricane ever to hit the island. Melissa caused catastrophic damage. Homes were destroyed. Roads and infrastructure suffered severe damage. Power and communication lines went down.
The hurricane’s impact was devastating. At least 54 people died in Jamaica. Over $10 billion in damage occurred. This made it Jamaica’s costliest hurricane. Many communities were left isolated. Western parishes experienced unprecedented destruction.
Jamaica’s recovery efforts are underway. The nation shows resilience. CARICOM member states offered significant support. This support came in many forms. It included personnel and leaders. Linesmen assisted with electricity restoration. The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) sent soldiers.
Forty-one GDF soldiers deployed to Jamaica. They are helping with reconstruction. Their mission includes rebuilding roofs in Westmoreland. Guyana sent essential supplies. This included zinc, lumber, and tools. They also sent mattresses and water tanks. The GDF coordinated relief supply handovers. This demonstrated regional solidarity.
Jamaica’s Foreign Minister, Kamina Johnson Smith, chaired the meeting. She spoke about Hurricane Melissa’s impact. “Just when we were about to breathe a sigh of relief towards the end of the Hurricane Season,” she said. “Jamaica felt firsthand the realities of our vulnerabilities through Melissa.”. She expressed gratitude for CARICOM’s actions.
Minister Johnson Smith thanked all supporting countries. “The support has been overwhelming. The goodwill has been heartwarming,” she stated. CARICOM’s response showcased its collective strength. It highlighted the community’s commitment to solidarity.
The hurricane serves as a stark reminder. It underscores the region’s vulnerability. Climate change is a significant factor. Minister Johnson Smith noted this link. Melissa, following Hurricane Beryl, shows climate change’s severe consequences.
The 56th Meeting of the Community Council of Ministers took place in Georgetown, Guyana. Minister Johnson Smith presided virtually from Kingston. The meeting focused on CARICOM’s work programme. It also prepared for future Heads of Government meetings.
Dr. Barnett’s commendation recognizes Jamaica’s active role. Even amidst recovery, Jamaica remains engaged with its Caribbean community. This engagement is vital for regional cooperation. It strengthens the bonds between nations. The stories of resilience and mutual support are inspiring. Jamaica continues its rebuilding journey. The Caribbean community stands with it.
Regional partners continue to offer crucial aid. Their efforts are essential for restoring infrastructure. They help rebuild affected communities. This collective spirit defines the Caribbean. It shows the power of unity in times of crisis. These stories of cooperation are vital for the region. They build a stronger future for all.