KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s telecommunications sector is steadily recovering following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, bolstered by the arrival of hundreds of satellite internet units and ongoing restoration work by major providers.

Transport and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz, speaking Tuesday at a press conference at Jamaica House, announced that 700 Starlink satellite units have been donated to support emergency communication across the island.

He said the devices are being distributed to key agencies including the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), the Jamaica Fire Brigade, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

“The kits will enhance communication and strengthen logistical coordination and accelerate the national response in affected areas,” he explained.

According to Vaz, 400 Starlink units came directly from Starlink’s head office and its team currently assisting on the ground in Jamaica. An additional 200 units were provided by charity organisation Medic Corps, while 100 more came through other donors.

He added that the government has identified a local supplier with 250 to 350 additional units in stock, which the state is now exploring to purchase to further strengthen national connectivity.

“So that we can roll out the full apparatus of starlink that is required for all essential government and NGOs that are working in this are,” he said.

Meanwhile, telecom providers continue to restore services disrupted by the hurricane. Flow Jamaica is currently operating at 87 per cent of its pre-hurricane capacity. Digicel, he reported, has restored 57 per cent of its mobile network, while its fixed-line and business networks have reached 89 per cent and 75 per cent restoration, respectively.

Vaz said the donated satellite systems, combined with continued restoration works, are critical to re-establishing reliable communication across the island, especially in communities still struggling with limited access due to Hurricane Melissa.

“Again, Flow and Digicel are working hard to make sure that they get connectivity and I’m working with them to get some additional spectrum so that they can improve their service during this time,” said Vaz.

As for fuel supply, the minister says the majority of petrol stations are now operational.