Ghana Deploys Soldiers To Jamaica To Support Humanitarian And Rebuilding Efforts

Ghana has deployed fifty-four (54) personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces to Jamaica to support national rebuilding efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

They are personnel of the 14th Engineer Brigade, Engineer Contingent 1.

At the departure ceremony, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, emphasised Ghana’s solidarity with Jamaica, the humanitarian and technical nature of the mission and the role of the Ghana Armed Forces as ambassadors of the nation abroad.

He said they will offer engineering, reconstruction, technical and logistical support and community-focused assistance while emphasising confidence in their professionalism, integrity and teamwork.

The president also acknowledged the support of the United States in airlifting the personnel and their equipment for the mission and further assured of Ghana’s commitment to Afro-Caribbean solidarity and South–South cooperation.

For his part, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighted Ghana’s foreign policy guided by a commitment to solidarity.

He disclosed that the deployment follows a formal request from the Prime Minister of Jamaica and thanked the Government of the United States for providing a C-17 aircraft to transport the Ghanaian troops and essential equipment for the reconstruction efforts.

The Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States of America, Mr Rolf Olson, in his address, lauded the bilateral partnership between Ghana and the United States of America and mentioned efforts by the two countries in promoting peace, security and prosperity.

He also recalled assistance from the United States of America to Jamaica and assured of its continuous support.

The deployed Engineer Contingent will coordinate with the Government of Jamaica and international partners to restore infrastructure, provide temporary shelters, and support community rebuilding initiatives.

The hurricane Melissa is reported to have claimed over 40 lives and caused an estimated US$8.8 billion in damage.

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