PM Browne Calls on Churches to Pray for Students and Jamaica Amid Hurricane Melissa

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called on churches and congregations across Antigua and Barbuda to lift prayers for the people of Jamaica and for the nation’s students studying there, as Hurricane Melissa sweeps across the island.

The Prime Minister appealed in light of the dangerous weather system impacting Jamaica this weekend, urging that a special prayer be said during today’s National Independence Service at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Creekside.

“I ask our people of faith to seek God’s blessings upon Jamaica and His continued protection over the 45 Antiguan and Barbudan students who are currently in Kingston,” Browne said. “This is a time for intercession, compassion, and solidarity with our Caribbean brothers and sisters.”

Forty-five students of Antiguan and Barbudan nationality have been safely relocated to the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston at the request and with the full support of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. Their stay, including accommodation and meals, is being fully covered by the government until the weather improves.

Reports reaching the Office of the Prime Minister confirm that the students are securely housed in the multi-storey facility and are expressing heartfelt gratitude for the swift action taken to ensure their safety.

Browne, who is currently in Dominica for official engagements, has extended thanks to all who assisted in coordinating the relocation effort and pledged additional support should the students face further displacement after the storm.

“The government stands ready to provide whatever assistance is needed to ensure the continued safety of our young people,” he said.

The Prime Minister is receiving regular updates on the situation in Jamaica and is expected to return to Antigua on Monday.