Ghana deploys armed forces engineers to Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

The Government of Ghana has deployed 54 personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces‘ 14 Engineer Brigade, Engineer Contingent 1 to Jamaica to support humanitarian relief and national rebuilding efforts following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa.

The hurricane is reported to have claimed over 40 lives and caused an estimated US$8.8 billion in damage. Ghana’s deployment is intended to assist Jamaica with reconstruction while reinforcing international solidarity, humanitarian assistance, and ties between Ghana and the African Diaspora.

Speaking at the departure ceremony, the President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, underscored Ghana’s solidarity with Jamaica and described the mission as humanitarian and technical in nature.

He highlighted the role of the personnel in engineering, reconstruction, technical and logistical support, as well as community-focused assistance.

President Mahama expressed confidence in the professionalism, integrity, and teamwork of the contingent and acknowledged the United States of America for providing airlift support for the troops and their equipment.

He also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to Afro-Caribbean solidarity and South-South cooperation.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), in a welcome address, stated that Ghana’s foreign policy is guided by solidarity and support for countries in need.

He referenced Ghana’s humanitarian assistance to Palestine, Cuba, and Sudan, and explained that the deployment followed a formal request from the Prime Minister of Jamaica.

He expressed gratitude to the Government of the United States for providing a C-17 aircraft to transport the Ghanaian troops and essential equipment for the mission.

The Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States of America, Mr. Rolf Olson, commended the strong bilateral partnership between Ghana and the United States, citing ongoing cooperation in promoting peace, security, and prosperity.

He recalled previous U.S. assistance to Jamaica and assured of continued support.

The Engineer Contingent is expected to work closely with the Government of Jamaica and international partners to restore damaged infrastructure, provide temporary shelters, and support community rebuilding initiatives.

The departure ceremony was attended by senior government officials, the Ghana Armed Forces, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and representatives from Jamaica.