PM Outlines Forward-looking Framework for Post-Melissa Recovery

  • In a keynote address at the Jamaica Stock Exchange's Regional conference, held on January 20, 2026, Prime Minister Andrew Holness outlined a forward-looking framework for national reconstruction following hurricane-related damage.
  • The Prime Minister signalled a strategic shift away from simple restoration, emphasising that future reconstruction efforts will focus on “building forward” – incorporating new towns, roads, schools, hospitals, businesses, and supporting infrastructure, rather than merely replacing what previously existed.
  • Central to this approach is a renewed emphasis on resilience, with infrastructure planning explicitly designed to withstand future hurricanes and systemic shocks, aligning climate adaptation with long-term economic development objectives.
  • Hurricane Melissa (October 2025) is one of the costliest disasters in Jamaica’s history, with the World Bank and IDB estimating US$8.8Bn in direct physical damage – roughly 41% of the country’s 2024 GDP. When including business disruptions and long-term economic shocks, total losses are projected to reach as high as US$20Bn1.
  • To fund post-Melissa recovery, the Government secured a US$6.7Bn international support package from partners like the IMF, World Bank, and IDB. These funds are being channelled through the newly established National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) to facilitate transparent, resilient project execution.
  • Currently, the Government of Jamaica is in the Early Recovery and Reconstruction phase of its recovery, with the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) restoring electricity to 96% of households and the National Water Commission (NWC) reporting 95% service restoration as of early January.

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 1 https://www.caribbean-council.org/hurricane-melissas-toll-on-jamaica-could-reach-us20bn/

(Sources: JIS & NCBCM Research)