The Government of Jamaica will begin reconstruction efforts with approximately US1.15 billion in immediately available funds, including US500 million from the IMF’s Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI), which carries no policy conditionality. This funding allows the government to start addressing urgent infrastructure, residential, and public recovery needs. Preliminary assessments indicate total damage of around US8.8 billion, with the government likely responsible for at least half, meaning additional borrowing will be necessary to fully fund reconstruction. While the government is in a strong fiscal position to begin this work, careful management of every dollar will be essential. Priority will be given to assisting those who cannot help themselves and rebuilding critical public infrastructure, ensuring a disciplined and sustainable approach to recovery.(Andrew Holness)