In a message of appreciation through X (formerly Twitter), the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) praised the RDF engineers for their unwavering commitment, describing their contribution as a lasting symbol of unity, solidarity, and international partnership during one of the country’s most challenging times.

A contingent of military engineers from the RDF has returned home on Monday 16 March, after completing a two-month humanitarian mission in Jamaica, where they assisted in rebuilding communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa.

The engineers, who were deployed under a bilateral cooperation agreement between Rwanda and Jamaica, worked alongside personnel from the Jamaica Defence Force to rehabilitate infrastructure in the island’s western parishes, particularly Trelawny and St. James. The areas were among the hardest hit when Hurricane Melissa swept across the Caribbean in late October 2025, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.

During their deployment, the RDF engineers collaborated closely with local authorities and JDF servicemembers to repair homes and schools damaged by the storm. Their efforts formed a key part of the broader recovery initiative aimed at restoring normalcy for affected residents.

In a farewell ceremony held before their departure, Lieutenant Colonel Alicia Cooper-Nelson and Lieutenant Colonel Carl Clarke, Acting Commanding Officer of the JDF’s 1 Engineer Regiment, praised the Rwandan contingent for its dedication and service. The JDF expressed deep gratitude, describing the engineers’ contribution as a powerful demonstration of their national values of unity, hard work, and patriotism.

“We will never forget your service and the dedication you have shown during one of the worst natural disasters in our recent history,” the JDF said in a statement, acknowledging the significant role played by the Rwandan team in supporting Jamaican communities.

Upon their return to Kigali, the contingent was received at Kigali International Airport by Alex Kagame, Chief of Staff of the RDF Reserve Force. He commended the engineers for their professionalism, discipline, and commitment, noting that they had served as exemplary ambassadors of Rwanda during their mission abroad.

Maj Gen Kagame emphasised that the deployment not only contributed meaningfully to Jamaica’s recovery but also reinforced Rwanda’s reputation as a reliable partner in global humanitarian efforts. He added that such missions highlight the importance of international cooperation in responding to natural disasters and rebuilding resilient communities.

The successful completion of the mission underscores the strengthening partnership between Rwanda and Jamaica, as both nations continue to collaborate on disaster response and recovery initiatives.