A Guyana Defence Force (GDF) contingent arrived yesterday in the hurricane-battered Grenadian island of Carriacou to assist with rebuilding.
A release from the GDF said that the contingent’s main body, comprising one officer and forty-nine ranks, departed Guyana at approximately 2 am yesterday and arrived on Carriacou Island at 11 am.
The release said that the arrival marks a concerted effort by the GDF to support Grenada’s recovery following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, which impacted the nation’s infrastructure. Upon arrival, the troops were greeted by the Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, who thanked the Government and the Guyanese people.
In addition to the personnel, the GDF’s operational capabilities were significantly boosted by the arrival of the vessel MV Lady Fazeela, which docked at Carriacou Island carrying relief supplies from Guyana. These supplies are expected to play a vital role in the reconstruction and support operations on the island.
The GDF has committed to assisting in the reconstruction of several vital projects deemed essential for the community’s recovery and long-term resilience, the release said. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Brigadier Omar Khan emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in times of need.
“The GDF stands ready to support our Caribbean brothers and sisters. Our mission is to provide immediate relief and assist in the reconstruction and recovery efforts”, he said.
The GDF dispatched an assessment team on 6 July to conduct a needs analysis ahead of this main body.
