The World Bank Group has issued a statement expressing concern for Jamaica following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. The organization is collaborating with the Government of Jamaica and international partners, including the Inter-American Development Bank, to conduct a rapid assessment of the damage and support immediate relief and recovery operations.
According to the World Bank Group, Jamaica has established one of the most advanced disaster risk financing systems in the Caribbean. This system is considered a model for preparedness and resilience throughout the region and is expected to play a key role in ensuring an effective response to the hurricane.
The World Bank Group announced that it is prepared to mobilize a broad package of assistance. This includes emergency financing that can be quickly disbursed, potential payouts from a World Bank catastrophe bond, redeployment of existing project funds, and private-sector support through its arm, the International Finance Corporation. The organization also stated its readiness to provide technical advice and implementation support to aid Jamaica's recovery and strengthen long-term resilience.
"Our thoughts are with the people of Jamaica as they face the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. We are working closely with the Government of Jamaica and international partners, including the Inter-American Development Bank, to carry out a rapid post-disaster damage assessment and help guide immediate relief and recovery efforts."
"Jamaica has developed one of the most advanced and comprehensive disaster risk financing systems in the Caribbean, serving as a model for preparedness and resilience across the region. This strong foundation will be critical in ensuring a swift and coordinated response to the hurricane’s impacts."
"A broad package of World Bank Group assistance is ready to be mobilized — combining quick-disbursing emergency finance, likely payout in connection with a World Bank catastrophe bond, the redeployment of existing project funds, and targeted private-sector support through the International Finance Corporation, the WBG’s private sector arm. Our teams are also prepared to provide technical advice and implementation support to help Jamaica recover and rebuild stronger, ensuring that reconstruction efforts contribute to long-term resilience and sustainable growth."