The CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) has approved US$500,000 in emergency relief funding to assist the Government of Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. This decision, made by the CDF Board of Directors on 19 November 2025 under the Emergency Disaster Assistance Facility (EDAF), supplements a previous US$300,000 grant provided to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency’s Regional Response Mechanism to cover costs for deploying the Rapid Needs Assessment Team to Jamaica.
Hurricane Melissa, a late-season storm, inflicted widespread socio-economic disruption across the island. Torrential rain, strong winds, and severe flooding damaged public infrastructure, homes, and essential services. Several parishes experienced significant impacts to road networks, utilities, and community facilities, which disrupted mobility, livelihoods, and increased vulnerabilities among at-risk populations. Accumulating debris and environmental hazards further strained recovery efforts and raised public health concerns.
The approved CDF intervention focuses on early recovery, particularly the rapid and safe management of hurricane-generated debris. The support aims to restore access to essential services, mitigate public health and environmental risks, and accelerate economic recovery in the most affected and underserved communities. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the UNDP Multi-Country Office in Jamaica.
CDF Chief Executive Officer Rodinald Soomer emphasized the Fund’s commitment to regional solidarity, stating that the emergency support aims not only to rebuild damaged infrastructure but also to strengthen community resilience against future shocks. Established to provide financial and technical assistance within CARICOM, the CDF supports projects that promote economic resilience, reduce disparities, and foster sustainable development. Its interventions contribute to regional integration, competitiveness, and inclusive growth across Member States.
