CARICOM Development Fund Provides US$100,000 cash contribution to Hurricane Beryl Recovery Efforts

The CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) has made a cash contribution of US$100,000 from the CDF Emergency Disaster Assistance Facility (EDAF) to the Government of Grenada to aid in recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024.

Hurricane Beryl impacted Grenada as a Category 4 storm, causing significant damage, especially on the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.  Initial reports indicate that approximately 98% of the buildings on those islands were either significantly damaged or destroyed including significant infrastructure such as the airport, marinas, and the main health facility on Carriacou. The devastation was described as almost total, with additional severe impacts on agriculture, natural environments, the electrical and communications systems.

The EDAF is a quick response facility created by the CDF to respond to natural or man-made events which cause widespread contagion, injury or death; damage to property, infrastructure or the environment, as well as disruption of livelihoods; and are of a magnitude that exceeds the ability of an affected disadvantaged country, region or sector within the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) to cope with its effects using only its own resources.

The CDF’s initial grant contribution will finance vehicles to continue to deliver relief supplies to affected persons and assist with the removal of debris to clear access corridors to affected communities, thereby accelerating restoration of essential services, as well as helping to rebuild critical infrastructure.

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Grenada during this challenging time,” said CDF’s CEO Rodinald Soomer. “Our contribution is aimed at providing swift assistance to help the nation recover and rebuild stronger.”

The Government of Grenada has expressed its gratitude for the timely support from the CDF. “This generous contribution will greatly assist our ongoing recovery efforts,” said Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada and Minister for Disaster Management. “We are committed to restoring normalcy and ensuring the well-being of our citizens.”

The CDF remains dedicated to supporting Member States in times of crisis and is working closely with the Government of Grenada to monitor the progress of recovery and make additional contributions targeted to areas of greatest need.