Jamaica’s 2025 Christmas season arrives under the shadow of Hurricane Melissa, but Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness says the moment demands resolve rather than despair.
In a national address marking the holiday, Holness acknowledged the hardship many families continue to face, particularly those displaced or whose homes were severely damaged by the storm. He noted that the period of Christmas, often associated with reflection and renewal, carries special meaning in a year marked by disruption and loss.
The prime minister outlined the Government’s ongoing recovery programme, pointing to active roof-repair operations now underway for vulnerable households. These efforts, he said, are being supported by the Jamaica Defence Force as well as technical teams from international partners. Financial assistance for rebuilding and rehabilitation is also in progress, with grants expected to be disbursed once islandwide damage assessments are finalised early in the new year.
Holness described the past year as one that tested national confidence, but he underscored the public response as evidence of Jamaica’s social strength. Across communities, he said, citizens stepped forward—sharing shelter, food and time—while members of the diaspora and international allies provided critical support in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane.
According to the prime minister, Jamaica’s ability to respond decisively was not accidental. He credited years of economic restructuring and disciplined public finances for giving the State the capacity to mobilise resources quickly in a crisis. He added that future rebuilding will place greater emphasis on resilience, sustainability and smarter construction practices to reduce vulnerability to similar events.
Beyond disaster recovery, Holness reflected on the country’s broader trajectory, highlighting recent progress in employment, investment and public safety. While Hurricane Melissa is expected to slow economic momentum, he stressed that stronger regions of the economy must compensate for losses in the hardest-hit areas to maintain national stability.
As Jamaica looks toward 2026, the prime minister urged citizens to adopt a mindset of preparation and shared responsibility, arguing that long-term progress depends on collective discipline and cooperation.
He closed by extending wishes for a calm Christmas season and expressing confidence that, despite present challenges, the country can move forward with purpose into the new year.
