KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a powerful show of international solidarity, Ethiopia has taken direct steps to support Jamaica in its national recovery following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. On Thursday, a senior Ethiopian delegation landed in Kingston, opening formal dialogue on assistance initiatives aimed at reinforcing Jamaica’s disaster response and long-term rebuilding strategy.
The delegation, headed by Ethiopia’s State Minister, His Excellency Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye, engaged in strategic talks with Jamaican leadership at Jamaica House. The meeting was chaired by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, and attended by key figures including Ambassador Rocky Meade, Permanent Secretary, and Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of ODPEM.
Senator Fitz-Henley acknowledged Ethiopia’s outreach as a deeply meaningful gesture, highlighting the historical and cultural ties that have long connected both nations. “This move is more than diplomacy—it reflects shared heritage and enduring respect. We’re pleased to welcome Ethiopia’s assistance in this time of national need,” he remarked.
The Ethiopian envoy is expected to visit the most impacted regions of St Elizabeth and Westmoreland, where Hurricane Melissa caused significant structural and agricultural damage. These site visits are intended to provide the Ethiopian government with a comprehensive assessment of the situation, helping to inform the scope and nature of potential support.
Discussions reportedly centered on both short-term relief and long-term infrastructure resilience. While specific commitments are still in development, the visit signals a deeper cooperative posture between the two nations.
The outreach by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s administration stands out amid growing global discourse around South-South cooperation, as countries in the Global South increasingly look to each other for mutual support in times of crisis.
As Jamaica continues its path toward recovery, Ethiopia’s early move may mark the beginning of a broader coalition of international partnerships focused not only on rebuilding—but on redefining how developing nations rise together after disaster.
