Regional Military Support Drives Jamaica’s Post-Melissa Recovery
Jamaica Live News Desk– | Jan 18, 2026
As communities across Jamaica continue the long road to recovery following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), with support from regional partners, is playing a central role in helping families rebuild damaged homes.
Assisting the JDF are members of the Guyana Defence Force and the Engineer Task Force comprising the Ghana Armed Forces, reflecting a coordinated regional response to Jamaica’s post-hurricane recovery. Their work, while steady, has been described by officials as a complex and time-consuming process, given the scale of destruction left behind by the storm.
On the ground, reactions among affected residents have been mixed. Some Jamaicans say they are relieved and grateful to finally receive assistance, as damaged roofs are repaired and structures reinforced. Others, however, express frustration, noting that months after the hurricane they are yet to see any direct support reach their communities.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness addressed the progress during a tour on Friday of sections of Whitehouse in Westmoreland and parts of St. Elizabeth, where rebuilding work is underway.
“I toured sections of Whitehouse in Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth to view the work completed by members of the Guyana Defence Force and the Engineer Task Force, comprising the Ghana Armed Forces and the Jamaica Defence Force, as our national rebuilding effort continues,” the Prime Minister said.
Holness noted that the visible progress in several communities highlights the importance of regional solidarity and technical expertise in disaster recovery.
“The progress across these communities reflects the strength of our regional partnerships and the professionalism, skill, and commitment of our defence forces working together in service of the Jamaican people,” he added.
The Prime Minister was joined on the tour by senior military officials, including Brigadier O’Neil Bogle, Brigade Commander of the Support Brigade, and Major Daniel Khan, Commander of the Engineer Task Force, along with other members of the JDF. He commended all personnel involved for their dedication to restoring damaged communities and building national resilience against future disasters.
As rebuilding efforts continue, the challenge for authorities remains balancing logistics, manpower, and public expectations, while ensuring that assistance reaches all affected areas in an equitable and timely manner. For many Jamaicans still waiting, the hope is that the slow but visible progress will soon turn into tangible relief at their own doorsteps.