Guyana mobilises humanitarian aid for Jamaica

Guyana will dispatch emergency relief supplies to Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. The initial shipment will include generators, tarpaulins, and chainsaws, mobilised through a joint Government–private sector humanitarian initiative coordinated by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) under the stewardship of Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips.

Phillips, who is performing the functions of President, convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday with representatives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and the CDC to finalise the coordination of the country’s response. The discussions focused on ensuring that Guyana’s assistance reaches affected communities in Jamaica swiftly and efficiently.

The relief effort forms part of Guyana’s broader commitment to regional solidarity and mutual support within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), particularly in times of crisis. Prime Minister Phillips underscored the importance of collaboration between Government agencies and the private sector in strengthening Guyana’s capacity to respond to humanitarian emergencies both locally and regionally.

The Prime Minister was joined by CDC Director General Colonel Nazrul Hussain, PSC Chair Gerald Gouveia Jr, and representatives from the GDF and the wider private sector. Phillips said Guyana stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Jamaica and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to collective resilience across the Caribbean.