The destruction left by Hurricane Melissa has pushed Jamaica to ask for at least US $9.5 billion in international financial aid to help rebuild infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods. Local reserves reportedly cover only a small fraction of the total damage.
The Honduran-based call for support was made at a global climate summit where officials warned that climate-fuelled storms may become more frequent and severe. The Prime Minister’s office said the country cannot afford to repay conventional loans on top of reconstruction costs, calling instead for grants or concessional financing.
With much of the tourism, agriculture and housing sectors damaged, analysts say the funding is critical — without it, many communities risk long-term economic collapse, especially rural and coastal areas heavily reliant on farming and tourism.
Source > Reuters
