Construction works have commenced in Jamaica by military engineers deployed by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), who arrived in the Caribbean nation on January 14 to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa in 2025. ALSO READ: RDF sends military engineers to support Jamaica's recovery from hurricane impact The RDF Engineer Contingent, working alongside engineers from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), officially launched the joint reconstruction project on Monday, January 19, in Montego Bay, St James Parish, underscoring close cooperation between the two defence forces. The first images of the engineering team at work surfaced on social media platforms earlier Tuesday, barely a week after their arrival. The RDF said the works began with the reconstruction of houses for residents affected by the hurricane, marking the onset of hands-on humanitarian and engineering assistance to impacted communities. “Through combined technical expertise in construction, RDF and JDF engineers are restoring damaged houses’ structures to improve living conditions for affected families,” the RDF said in a statement. “The joint effort reflects close coordination between the two defence forces in support of Jamaica’s recovery and rebuilding process.” ALSO READ: Hurricane Melissa: What awaits RDF engineers in Jamaica Speaking on the mission, the contingent commander, Col Moses Kayigamba, said the deployment extends beyond infrastructure rehabilitation. “The mission goes beyond infrastructure repair, highlighting the importance of solidarity with the people of Jamaica and contributing to long-term resilience,” Kayigamba was quoted as saying in the statement. He explained that the reconstruction activities are being carried out in support of Jamaican local authorities and the JDF, ensuring that the assistance aligns with Jamaica's national priorities and its recovery agenda. ALSO READ: How Rwanda, Jamaica relations evolved over the years The deployment of the military engineers also reflects the growing bilateral relations between Rwanda and Jamaica, built on cooperation frameworks such as political consultations and tourism, and laying the foundation for deeper engagement in other areas. “The deployment of the RDF Engineer Contingent to Jamaica underscores Rwanda’s commitment to international solidarity, cooperation, and humanitarian assistance in response to natural disasters,” RDF said.
