KINGSTON, Jamaica, (PAHO) – Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), recently concluded a two-day After-Action Review (AAR) workshop held from March 24–25. The workshop aimed to strengthen Jamaica’s preparedness and response systems following the impact of Hurricane Melissa.
After-Action Reviews are a standard tool in emergency management, used to assess response efforts, capture lessons learned, and improve coordination, planning, and operational systems for future events. Importantly, aligning the AAR process with the International Health Regulations (IHR) ensures that the evaluation of public health emergencies meets globally recognised standards, strengthening Jamaica’s ability to detect, assess, report, and respond to health threats in a timely and effective manner. A consistent approach to AARs across countries also fosters international collaboration, facilitates the sharing of best practices, and supports regional and global health security by ensuring that lessons learned contribute to collective preparedness. The workshop provided a structured opportunity to examine what worked well, identify gaps, and strengthen the systems that protect the health and well-being of the Jamaican population.
The workshop brought together representatives from the ministry of health and wellness, regional health authorities, emergency services, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), other government agencies, and partners. With support from PAHO/WHO, the facilitation team included experts from the Organisation’s Regional Office, two country offices, and the Jamaica Country Office.
Jamaica bore the brunt of hurricane Melissa, which made landfall on October 28, 2025, as a devastating Category 5 storm with sustained winds near 185 mph (298 km/h). The hurricane, one of the most powerful Atlantic storms in recent history, caused widespread destruction to housing, infrastructure, and health facilities, placing considerable strain on emergency response systems and essential services.
During the review, participants reflected on multiple aspects of the country’s emergency response. Discussions were guided by key themes, including early warning and preparedness systems, coordination mechanisms, and sector-level responses, with a view to identifying strengths and areas for improvement across Jamaica’s health and emergency systems.
Speaking on behalf of minister of health and wellness Dr Christopher Tufton, D. Nicole Dawkins-Wright emphasised the importance of the AAR process, noting that it requires openness, honesty, and a shared commitment to learning. She encouraged participants to engage fully, celebrate successes, and candidly examine challenges.
Dr Dawkins-Wright reiterated that the exercise is not about assigning blame, but about building a stronger, more responsive health system. She emphasised that the true value of the review will be reflected in follow-up actions, including revised plans, strengthened procedures, and strategic investments to enhance national preparedness.
Additionally, Ian Stein, PAHO/WHO representative to Jamaica, noted, “Our partnership with Jamaica stands as a testament to resilience and solidarity. Together, through honest reflection and collective learning, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding health and strengthening preparedness. The courage shown during hurricane Melissa inspires us to build a future where every community is safer, stronger, and better equipped to face challenges ahead.”
The After-Action Review highlighted both successes and challenges in Jamaica’s response to Hurricane Melissa, providing valuable insights to guide policy updates and strengthen operational systems. These outcomes are expected to ensure that Jamaica’s health and emergency services are better equipped to protect lives and communities in future events.
At the conclusion of the AAR, both PAHO/WHO and the ministry of health and wellness reaffirmed their commitment to translating the outcomes of the review into meaningful and lasting changes, strengthening Jamaica’s capacity to respond effectively to future emergencies.
