In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl, Guyana has initiated air transport support to deliver rescue teams to the most affected islands.
Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Elizabeth Riley, provided an update on the ongoing efforts.
Initial assessments have identified St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and Grenada as the islands most severely impacted by the hurricane.
To coordinate relief efforts, CDEMA has activated a regional coordination plan with support from both regional and international partners.
President Irfaan Ali has entrusted Prime Minister Mark Phillips with overseeing the coordination efforts from Guyana’s end, ensuring swift and effective deployment of assistance.
Elizabeth Riley highlighted the collaborative efforts of various partners, including Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago, who are contributing relief items, personnel, technical expertise, and security support to the affected islands.
The World Food Programme, in partnership with Massy Distribution, is providing essential ready-to-eat meals to families in both Grenada and SVG, addressing immediate food needs.
In addition to logistical support, communication satellites are being utilized to maintain connectivity with the affected islands.
A CARICOM telecommunications team has also been deployed to bolster communication infrastructure in the region.
Meanwhile, the governments of St. Vincent and Grenada have mobilized efforts to receive and distribute donations effectively.
St. Vincent is accepting cash donations, while Grenada has compiled a list of specific relief items needed to support recovery efforts.
The ongoing response efforts underscore the regional solidarity and swift action in providing critical aid to the islands most affected by Hurricane Beryl’s impact.