The hurricane struck Jamaica between October 21 and November 4, 2025, marking the second strongest storm in the region since 1935. Winds reached up to 464 km/h, accompanied by torrential rains and lightning, causing extensive damage to infrastructure, including buildings and essential services situated at elevations above 200 meters.

The team of Rwandan engineers and construction specialists arrived in Jamaica on Wednesday evening and was initially welcomed by the Jamaican Defense leadership. They were formally received in a ceremony at the Caribbean Military Academy, led by Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Sen. Kamina Johnson Smith.

Sen. Johnson Smith expressed gratitude to Rwandan President Paul Kagame, the Government of Rwanda, and the Rwandan people for sending skilled personnel whose expertise and professionalism are expected to have a significant impact on Jamaica’s rebuilding efforts. She noted that this support would strengthen Jamaica’s resilience and accelerate recovery.

On behalf of the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF), Col. Claudien Bizimungu emphasized Rwanda’s solidarity with Jamaica during this critical recovery period. He affirmed that deploying Rwandan troops reflects Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to international cooperation and humanitarian support wherever needed.

Col. Moses Kayigamba, leader of the deployed RDF construction team, confirmed that Rwandan engineers would closely collaborate with Jamaican forces and other national agencies on repair projects, as part of existing bilateral agreements.

This cooperation builds on the commitment President Kagame made to support Jamaica in disaster preparedness and recovery, reaffirmed during his visit to the country in April 2022.