Accra: Ghana has deployed a contingent of Army engineers to Jamaica to aid in reconstruction efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. President John Dramani Mahama announced the mission, emphasizing Ghana's commitment to humanitarian solidarity and its strong ties with the Caribbean.
According to Ghana News Agency, the 54-member engineering team, part of the Ghana Army's 14 Engineer Brigade, was transported to Kingston via a United States Air Force C-17 aircraft. This deployment follows a formal request from the Government of Jamaica in the aftermath of the hurricane.
During the departure ceremony in Accra, President Mahama highlighted the mission's humanitarian nature, urging the troops to act with professionalism and compassion. He also recalled Ghana's previous humanitarian efforts, including sending relief items to affected regions, and noted the urgent need for technical assistance in rebuilding infrastructure and providing shelter for displaced persons.
The President expressed gratitude to the United States for providing strategic airlift support, which was crucial in facilitating the mission. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized the alignment of the deployment with Ghana's foreign policy of compassion and solidarity, citing past humanitarian responses under President Mahama's leadership.
Mr. Rolf Olson, Charg© d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, praised the U.S.-Ghana partnership and reiterated the shared commitment to humanitarian assistance. He detailed the U.S. support for the mission, including transporting Ghanaian engineers and equipment, and highlighted the broader U.S.-Ghana security cooperation.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, service chiefs, diplomats, and families of the deployed soldiers, underscoring the significance of the mission for both nations.