Jamaican Association President Connects With Sister Days After Storm

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Following the passage of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, the storm’s trail of devastation continues to weigh heavily on Bahamians of Jamaican descent, many of whom are still struggling to contact loved ones back home.

Rohan Kerr, President of the Jamaica Diaspora Association in The Bahamas (JDAB), says the past few days have been filled with anxiety and heartbreak.

“It was a big relief knowing that I’m hearing from somebody after the hurricane,” Kerr said. “But the other family members I have not heard anything from. I’m still here, sitting and waiting, hoping that something will break through to make me feel like everything is okay, but at this point, everything is not okay.”

Kerr, who hails from Westmoreland, says communication with family members was completely cut off for days following the Category 5 storm. He told us that just moments before our interview, he finally managed to connect with his sister through a satellite link.

“She told me this morning when she called that the next time she hears about any hurricane threatening Jamaica, she’s on the next flight out,” he said with a small laugh, though the relief in his voice was clear.

Still, he says there are other relatives they have yet to reach, particularly those living in rural communities prone to landslides and flooding.

The devastation brought back painful memories for Kerr, who says Hurricane Melissa’s fury has surpassed what he witnessed decades ago during Hurricane Gilbert.

“I’ve witnessed Gilbert before, 37 years ago,” he recalled. “But what I am seeing and hearing now, it’s worse than what I experienced before.”

Now, Kerr and the JDAB are focused on action. The organization plans to host a charity cookout in January, with all proceeds going toward hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica.

“We just want to do our part,” Kerr said. “Even though we’re away, Jamaica is still home.”

As the island nation begins its long road to recovery, the Jamaican community in The Bahamas is standing in solidarity, offering help, hope, and heart to those still picking up the pieces.