The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) has stepped in to support Jamaica’s recovery from the devastation left by Hurricane Melissa, approving US$670,000 in emergency funding to aid humanitarian and rebuilding efforts across the island.

The powerful Category 5 storm left a trail of destruction across Jamaica earlier this week — claiming lives, damaging homes, and crippling key infrastructure. In a message to Prime Minister Andrew Holness, CAF’s Executive President, Sergio Díaz-Granados, expressed solidarity with the Jamaican people and pledged the bank’s continued support in the difficult days ahead.

“We are deeply moved by the reports of the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica,” Díaz-Granados said. “Jamaica is a valued member of the CAF family, and we stand firmly alongside the nation during this most difficult time. We recognize that the needs are immense and immediate and stand ready to channel resources to ongoing relief efforts.”

The emergency grant is intended to complement other regional and international assistance already being mobilized. CAF has also helped coordinate additional aid through its network of member countries — including El Salvador, which has sent 37 tonnes of humanitarian supplies and deployed more than 300 trained emergency personnel to assist local authorities with relief and recovery operations.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, who currently serves as Chairman of CAF’s Board of Directors, commended the bank’s rapid response and reaffirmed the Board’s “full support” for Jamaica’s recovery.

“CAF’s swift action demonstrates the spirit of Caribbean unity and resilience,” Tancoo said. “We stand in solidarity with Jamaica as it begins the long process of rebuilding.”

Davendranath Tancoo, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister and Chairman of CAF’s Board of Directors (photo by Trinidad Guardian)

CAF noted Jamaica’s “decisive leadership” in coordinating national response efforts and reiterated its commitment to working alongside the government and people of Jamaica — not only in the immediate aftermath but throughout the island’s long-term recovery and reconstruction.
Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms to strike the Caribbean in recent history, battered Jamaica with violent winds and torrential rain, leaving communities in ruins and thousands displaced. Relief teams continue to work around the clock to restore access to essential services and deliver aid to the hardest-hit areas.