The British High Commission and the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC) continue their joint efforts to bolster the region’s ability to communicate effectively during disasters.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which exposed vulnerabilities in communications infrastructure, this initiative takes on renewed urgency through the donation of Emergency Media Kits to Journalists and the Caribbean Institute of Media and Communications (CARIMAC).

The partnership underscores a shared belief that a well-prepared, independent media sector is central to saving lives, fostering recovery, and sustaining trust in times of crisis.

The announcement comes as the Caribbean reflects on the widespread disruption caused by Hurricane Melissa, which battered Jamaica in October 2025. More than 120,000 households experienced power outages and extensive communication breakdowns, leaving many communities reliant mainly on local radio and social media for urgent updates. The storm underscored how vital preparedness and continuity are for newsrooms that play a frontline role in disaster communication. 

“This equipment will help connect Journalists and communities when they need trusted information the most,” said Kiran Maharaj, President of MIC. “Hurricane Melissa reminded us that resilience begins with preparation. This initiative ensures local voices can continue telling the stories that guide, not just survival, but the rebuilding and renewal that follow.”

Similar sentiments were expressed by one of the beneficiaries, veteran Journalist, Melville Harris, who lives and works in one of the hardest hit parishes, St Elizabeth. He noted: “The contribution of these pieces of equipment will enhance the work that I do throughout the parish of St Elizabeth and especially in the Western end of the island, which has suffered extensive damage due to Hurricane Melissa.”

Meanwhile, British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert, noted: “The UK stands with Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean in building resilience, not just in infrastructure, but in institutions. A strong independent press ensures people have access to facts, guidance, and stories of hope when they matter most. This partnership with MIC is about enabling that continuity.”

Each Emergency Media Kit includes essential tools such as ENG cameras, portable audio recorders, microphones, LED lights, laptops, hard drives, memory cards, and tripods, designed to keep independent outlets on air even when core infrastructure fails.