“Black River Will Rise Again” – PM Holness

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has given a strong message of hope, recovery and renewal to residents of Black River, declaring that the town will emerge stronger following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. 

“I [give you] my commitment that I will work tirelessly on your behalf. That we will work cooperatively, that we will work transparently, fairly and honestly for you. I give you my commitment that Black River will rise again,” he said. 

The Prime Minister was addressing the inaugural fireworks festival hosted by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) to ring in the New Year  at the Black River Courthouse in the St. Elizabeth capital on Wednesday night (Dec. 31). 

He assured the hundreds of citizens who turned out for the celebration, that  “Government stands firmly with you.” 

He noted that the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on the historic town has provided a pivotal opportunity for transformation and long-term development. 

“The hurricane was a disaster. It created a crisis, but every crisis creates an opportunity and this is an opportunity to rebuild Black River, not the way it was, but to rebuild Black River for the future; to be able to provide you with a better opportunity for prosperity and success in your life, to be able to withstand the storms of the future, which will no doubt come again,” Dr. Holness pointed out.  

He emphasised that the redevelopment will ensure that “when the next storm blows, Black River will not be flattened. Black River will be standing strong, protecting its people and that is what the reconstruction is about. It will be a massive undertaking.”  

Dr. Holness said that the residents will be central to the rebuilding process, outlining a vision of stability and ownership. 

“This is now an opportunity to rebuild Black River in a way that is inclusive…. where all of you can have a place with a title to the place that you have. That’s the dream, that’s the objective,” he pointed out. 

The Prime Minister encouraged reflection and gratitude as the country recovers and rebuilds in the aftermath of the hurricane. 

“Let us give God thanks for sparing our lives to see 2026. As bad as things are, it could have been worse. Let us spare a moment to remember those who did not make it and those who perished in the storm or because of the storm,” he said. 

Held under the theme: ‘Life, Love and Recovery’, the inaugural Black River Fireworks Festival was aimed at providing residents and visitors with a safe, family-oriented celebration to welcome the New Year, while building community morale following the recent hurricane.  

It formed part of the UDC’s broader mandate to promote urban renewal, community engagement and sustainable development across town centres islandwide.