The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica, Kamina Johnson Smith, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Paul Kagame and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) for their exceptional support following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
In an official statement, Minister Johnson Smith commended the Government of Rwanda for its swift and compassionate response, highlighting the deployment of skilled military engineers who played a critical role in rebuilding communities.
She emphasized that the solidarity shown by Rwanda restored hope and dignity among affected families.
“Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten,” she said,
underscoring the deep appreciation of the Jamaican people.
On January 14, 2026, Rwanda dispatched a contingent of 100 RDF personnel specialized in construction and engineering to assist in recovery efforts.
The team was deployed to the heavily affected parishes of Trelawny Parish and St. James Parish, where they have been actively involved in rebuilding homes destroyed by the disaster.
RDF’s Role in Jamaica’s Disaster Recovery
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa which caused widespread destruction across parts of western Jamaica the Rwanda Defence Force stepped in as part of its growing international humanitarian and disaster response efforts.
While Jamaica has historically faced hurricanes rather than tsunamis, the scale of destruction from Melissa prompted urgent global support.
The RDF engineering unit brought expertise in rapid infrastructure rehabilitation, focusing on constructing resilient housing for displaced families.
Their work has included clearing debris, laying foundations, and building durable homes designed to withstand future extreme weather events.
This mission reflects Rwanda’s broader commitment to international cooperation and humanitarian assistance.
Over the years, the RDF has earned recognition for its professionalism in peacekeeping and disaster response operations across different regions.
Strengthening Global Solidarity
The collaboration between Rwanda and Jamaica marks a significant moment in South-South cooperation, demonstrating how nations can support each other beyond geographic boundaries. For Jamaica, Rwanda’s intervention not only accelerated recovery but also reinforced a sense of global solidarity during a time of crisis.
As reconstruction efforts continue, the partnership stands as a testament to the impact of timely humanitarian action and the enduring value of international friendship.
