Country: Jamaica Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Kingston, Panama City, Geneva 21, April 2026 — Six months after Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is entering a critical phase where recovery efforts must continue to be a priority or risk deepening long-term vulnerability, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Jamaica Red Cross stated today, as they presented the country’s recovery strategy during the Hurricane Melissa Recovery Conference held in Kingston. The Category 5 hurricane affected 1. 6 million people — more than half the country’s population — causing an estimated USD 8. 8 billion in damages — equivalent to 56 per cent of Jamaica’s GDP — placing significant pressure on public finances, slowing economic recovery, and leaving lasting impacts on livelihoods, housing and essential services. Losses in key sectors such as tourism and agriculture continue to affect income and stability, particularly in rural and coastal communities. At the same time, rising global costs — including fuel and agricultural inputs — are increasing the burden on recovery, making it more expensive for families to rebuild and for systems to recover While emergency response efforts helped stabilize the immediate aftermath, thousands of families remain displaced or living in damaged homes, with limited means to rebuild. “Six months after a disaster, recovery becomes decisive. If we get this moment right, we can reduce future risks. If we don’t, vulnerabilities deepen, ” said Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General of the IFRC. “Recovery is about strengthening the capacity of communities, systems and institutions to withstand the next shock. That means investing early, working in coordination with national authorities, and trusting local actors to lead — particularly National Societies like the Jamaica Red Cross, whose auxiliary role positions them to support and strengthen national recovery efforts. ” “This strategy is aligned with the national recovery framework and builds on what has already been achieved in the response, while supporting communities to recover safely and sustainably, ” said Allasandra Chung, President of the Jamaica Red Cross. “It recognises that every family and every community recovers at a different pace and requires solutions tailored to their specific needs. Grounded in dialogue with affected people and national authorities, and drawing on our experience in recovery from Hurricane Beryl and other crises, it goes beyond rebuilding what was lost — helping communities rebuild futures that are safer, more resilient and better prepared for what lies ahead. ” The Jamaica Red Cross, supported by the IFRC network, has been central to the response and continues to support communities as recovery progresses. To date, more than 45, 000 people have received humanitarian assistance, including shelter materials, hygiene items, food and cash support. Over 6, 000 households have received cash assistance to help meet urgent needs and begin rebuilding, while mental health and psychosocial support has reached more than 2, 100 people. The Jamaica Red Cross recovery approach places local leadership at its core, strengthening community capacities and ensuring that people are active participants in shaping their own recovery. Through training, outreach and engagement, communities are being supported to rebuild safer homes, restore livelihoods and reduce future risks. The recovery strategy forms part of the IFRC Emergency Appeal for 19 million Swiss francs to support 180, 000 people over 24 months. However, the appeal is currently only 56 per cent funded, limiting the ability to scale up recovery efforts at the pace required. AV assets available here. Download the recovery strategy here. For more information and to arrange interviews contact: media@ifrc. org In Jamaica Esther Pinnock +1 (876) 836-5049 In Panama Susana Arroyo +507 69993199 In Geneva Tommaso Della Longa +41 79 708 4367 Paolo Cravero +41 79 894 83 96
Jamaica: Six months after Hurricane Melissa, locally led recovery will determine how communities withstand future shocks
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