Accra: President John Dramani Mahama, serving as the Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, has deployed the initial group of 54 soldiers from the 48 Engineer Regiment to support reconstruction efforts in Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
According to Ghana News Agency, this deployment was initiated in response to an appeal by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness for aid in rebuilding his nation after the hurricane. The contingent comprises 45 soldiers and nine officers. Speaking at the farewell ceremony at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, President Mahama emphasized the mission's significance in demonstrating Ghana's solidarity with Jamaica, highlighting their shared history and values within the African-Caribbean community.
President Mahama noted that Ghana has previously sent humanitarian aid to Jamaica, Cuba, and Sudan, including food, locally-produced Ghanaian rice, blankets, mattresses, plastic buckets, medicines, and other essentials. He reiterated Ghana's commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian assistance, emphasizing the country's understanding of the challenges posed by natural disasters and the importance of recovery efforts.
The President praised the Ghana Armed Forces for their professionalism and readiness to serve internationally. He clarified that the mission is one of compassion and service, focused on providing engineering and reconstruction support, technical and logistical services, and community assistance. The troops will also be equipped with tents sent by sea to offer temporary shelter to those affected by the hurricane.
President Mahama highlighted the importance of the troops' conduct, urging them to uphold Ghana's values and professionalism while serving as ambassadors for the country. He expressed confidence that they would enhance Ghana's reputation abroad and convey a strong message of solidarity to the people and government of Jamaica.
The President also expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump of the United States for providing C-17 aircraft to transport the troops and their supplies to Kingston, Jamaica. Mr. Rolf Olson, Charg© d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in Ghana, commended Ghana's leadership and compassion in offering assistance to Jamaica, a fellow Commonwealth member.
Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterated that the deployment was made at the request of the Jamaican Prime Minister, and expressed gratitude to the Ghana Armed Forces for their unwavering commitment to international service.