J’ca PM commends GDF ranks for dedication in reconstruction efforts – Hurricane Melissa recovery

Jamaican Prime Minister (PM) Andrew Holness met recently with members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) who have been deployed in Jamaica to provide critical support to national recovery efforts in White House, Westmoreland.
The GDF’s presence was described as a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity and the enduring strength of Caribbean cooperation in times of need.
PM Holness expressed sincere appreciation to the officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force for their professionalism, dedication, and selfless service to the people of Jamaica, noting that their on-the-ground assistance continues to make a meaningful difference for families and communities as recovery and rebuilding efforts progress.
On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, and particularly the beneficiaries whose lives have been directly impacted, heartfelt thanks were extended to President Dr Irfaan Ali, as well as the Government and people of Guyana, for their timely and generous support.

“I must commend you and your team, and President Ali, for sending the equipment and materials, and for the dedication and effort you have put into assisting your Caribbean brothers and sisters. Your support has helped to improve response times on behalf of all beneficiaries. We are most grateful. Again, thank you,” the PM stated.
Guyana dispatched its second tranche of emergency relief supplies to Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in November 2025.
The shipment, coordinated by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), departed on Thursday from the AFS Shipping Wharf at Friendship aboard the MV Falk.
This support followed President Dr Irfaan Ali’s visit to Jamaica alongside other Heads of Government from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in November 2025 and reflects strong collaboration between the government and the private sector.
The supplies include wood and zinc sheeting to rebuild 200 roofs, as well as mattresses, water tanks, and rice. Showcasing local manufacturing capacity, the mattresses and water tanks were produced locally by A&F Foam Factory and Lion Tank, respectively.
Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI), CDC Director General Colonel (Ret’d) Nazrul Hussain said the deployment reflects Guyana’s commitment to standing with its Caribbean neighbour in times of crisis.
Additional critical relief supplies, including tarpaulins, generators, and chainsaws – gathered by the Guyana Government in collaboration with local stakeholders – have arrived in Kingston and were officially handed over to Jamaican authorities to support ongoing recovery efforts.
Jamaica was struck by Category Five Hurricane Melissa in late October of last year, resulting in deaths and extensive damage to property and infrastructure, widespread disruption of essential services, and the displacement of communities across affected areas.
Guyana had earlier dispatched its first shipment of essential equipment and materials to assist with immediate recovery and humanitarian response efforts. Those items were mobilised by the Civil Defence Commission in collaboration with the Private Sector Commission (PSC).
White House is a settlement in Westmoreland Parish with approximately 4000 residents and is traditionally known for its fishing industry, which supplies fresh seafood to businesses across Jamaica.