When Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica in October 2025 — claiming more than 40 lives and causing an estimated US$8.8 billion in damage — Ghana didn’t just offer words of comfort. They sent soldiers.
A 54-member contingent from the Ghana Armed Forces, drawn from the 14 Engineer Brigade, touched down in Jamaica in December 2025 at the formal request of the Jamaican government. For 90 days, these men worked alongside the Jamaica Defence Force to repair homes, restore public facilities, and bring relief to some of the hardest-hit communities — particularly in St. Elizabeth Parish, including Middle Quarters and Black River. By the time they were done, they had rebuilt more than 26 homes and public structures, focusing heavily on roofing works for families left exposed by the storm.
On March 17, 2026, the troops arrived home to a hero’s welcome. President John Dramani Mahama personally welcomed them at a mission accomplishment parade at the 48 Engineers Parade Square in Teshie, presenting them with a citation for their outstanding service. He praised the mission as a “non-combat, humanitarian assignment” rooted in shared Afro-Caribbean history and Pan-African solidarity — and commended the Officer Commanding, Colonel Emmanuel Asia, for his exemplary leadership throughout.
“This deployment reflects Ghana’s solidarity with the people of Jamaica and our shared history, values, and bonds within the African-Caribbean family,” President Mahama said.
The mission was made possible with the support of the United States, which provided a C-17 military cargo aircraft to airlift the Ghanaian troops and their equipment to Kingston.
Jamaica, thank Ghana. 🙏 They came not with weapons but with tools, skills, and heart — and they left communities rebuilt and spirits lifted.
🕊️ The bond between Ghana and Jamaica is stronger than ever. 🇬🇭❤️🇯🇲
