The government of Ghana has deployed 54 personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces’ 14 Engineer Brigade, Engineer Contingent 1 to Jamaica to support national rebuilding efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, which claimed over 40 lives and caused an estimated US$8.8 billion in damage.
According to the West African nation’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, “the deployment underscores Ghana’s commitment to international solidarity, humanitarian assistance and to strengthen the ties between Ghana and the Diaspora.”
At the departure ceremony, the President of the Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, 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. President Mahama highlighted their responsibilities in engineering, reconstruction, technical and logistical support and community-focused assistance. He then expressed confidence in their professionalism, integrity and teamwork. He acknowledged the support of the United States in airlifting the personnel and their equipment for the mission. He assured of Ghana’s commitment to Afro-Caribbean solidarity and South–South cooperation.
On his part, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP) delivered the welcome address highlighting that Ghana’s foreign policy is guided by a commitment to solidarity and support for nations in need and referred to humanitarian assistance extended to Palestine, Cuba and Sudan.
He emphasised that the deployment follows a formal request from the Prime Minister of Jamaica and thanked the Government of 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 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 ceremony was attended by senior Government officials, the Ghana Armed Forces, members the Diplomatic Corps and representatives from Jamaica.
