Jamaica announces it will provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Venezuela following two devastating earthquakes in the country’s northern region. Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Kamina Johnson Smith says the support reflects regional solidarity after Jamaica was assisted by Venezuela in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. She notes that although Jamaica is still in its own recovery and rebuilding phase, it is responding to Venezuela’s needs as families grieve, injured people receive care, and affected communities begin recovery and rebuilding.
Johnson Smith says Jamaica’s contribution is part of the wider Caribbean Community (Caricom) response, coordinated by the Government of Guyana. The aid is described as including pharmaceutical supplies and food items intended to support relief efforts in affected communities.
The earthquakes, which took place on June 24, have resulted in significant loss of life, injuries, displacement, and widespread damage. Reports cited in the coverage place the death toll at more than 3,500, with numbers continuing to rise.
