In response to the impact of Hurricane Beryl, the United States Government has provided a gracious gift of US$2.5 million (approximately J$400 million) in humanitarian aid to the Jamaican people. This support, announced by US Ambassador to Jamaica Nick Perry on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, was channeled through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The generous assistance directly fulfills a request from the Jamaican Government and reflects the enduring commitment of the US to its close friends and neighbors. Through USAID, the US Embassy plans to collaborate with local authorities to repair homes, address water and sanitation needs, facilitate logistical operations, and distribute essential relief items such as clean-up kits, hygiene kits, and tarps. In addition, USAID aims to offer market-based assistance to enable affected residents to purchase essential household items and other necessary supplies.
Additionally, the Embassy stated the following:
“The United States and Embassy Kingston stand firmly in solidarity with the people of Jamaica during this challenging time,” the release quotes Ambassador Perry. “We are committed to providing the necessary support to help these resilient communities recover and rebuild. Our friendship and partnership with Jamaica are steadfast, and in this time of need, we are here to offer our assistance.”
US Embassy in Kingston, Jamaica.
Hurricane Beryl’s Road Damage Costs Exceed $10 Billion.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness said that Hurricane Beryl caused extensive damage to the country’s road network, which will require billions of dollars for repairs. He stated that the hurricane severely impacted the road infrastructure, agriculture sector, and utilities.
The preliminary assessment by the NWA estimated the cost of damage to the main road network to be J$10.25 billion. Approximately 500 parochial roads were affected to varying degrees.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that road repair costs could increase as assessments continue. Despite some progress in reopening main corridors, many areas remain inaccessible, complicating relief efforts.
The government plans to spend nearly $2 billion to recover critical infrastructure post-hurricane, including major hospitals that suffered significant damage, with repair costs exceeding J$1.8 billion.
Hurricane Beryl Causes an Estimated $1 Billion Loss in the Agriculture Sector.
Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Floyd Green expressed deep concern over Hurricane Beryl’s devastating impact, estimating the loss at more than $1 billion. He emphasized that this figure is likely to rise as the full extent of the damage is evaluated.
Mr. Green shared that the relentless floodwaters and powerful winds have significantly affected nearly all major crop lines, leading to substantial losses. Additionally, the sector suffered the loss of livestock and damage to vital infrastructure.
In the fisheries industry, approximately 15 percent of fishing vessels incurred damage, along with some sheds and significant loss of fish pots.
On Tuesday, the Minister announced that a detailed report on the sector’s losses and the government’s planned support will be presented in the House of Representatives.
“We anticipate the damage will cost the agricultural sector a billion dollars. I aim to present a support program in Parliament tomorrow. Taking action now is crucial. Fortunately, we have established robust disaster recovery and management systems,” he underscored.
Mr. Green expressed hope that the support program for farmers and fishers would commence without delay, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance.
He also revealed that additional funding beyond the Agriculture Ministry’s Production Incentive Programme would be necessary, as the costs of the damage have depleted the available resources.
Mr. Green made these remarks during his appearance as a guest on TVJ’s Smile Jamaica program on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.