SAVANNA-LA-MAR, Westmoreland — In a display of international solidarity and community spirit, the Japanese community made a generous donation of half-a-million dollars to the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation (WMC) to help the parish’s infirmary recover from Hurricane Melissa.

The presentation was made to the WMC by Marie Sano, a Japanese residing in Jamaica for the past 17 years and the architect behind the initiative. Made on behalf of the Japanese community, the handover came at the end of last Thursday’s regular monthly general meeting of the corporation.

With a deep connection to Jamaica through familial and cultural ties, Sano had a profound desire to give back to the country that has become her home. A popular sound system selector who goes by the moniker “DJ Bad Gyal Marie”, she highlighted the strong influence of Jamaican culture and music on the Japanese people, especially those who cherish the Jamaican countryside.

Sano explained that the donation was inspired by a sense of reciprocity and gratitude. She recalled how Japan received international aid after an earthquake 17 years ago, saying she felt compelled to mobilise support for Jamaica now in its time of need.

“When the hurricane happened, I just talked with my friends, [and said] if we can do something for Jamaica,” stated Sano.

“I just want to do something for this country, and when earthquake happened 17 years ago in Japan, a lot of people helped Japan with donation, so I feel like we can do something to [help] Jamaica now. And I’m here,” she added.

After the hurricane, Sano made trips to affected areas such as St Elizabeth and St James before focusing on Westmoreland.

Mayor of Savanna-la-Mar Danree Delancy welcomed her donation.

“We are really thankful and grateful that you took the trip all the way from Kingston to be here and to make your contribution to us,” he said.

“Really and truly we are humbled by your thoughtfulness because you could have chosen other places to do your thing or you could have chosen not to do anything at all. We are, indeed, happy and grateful,” assured Delancy.

The mayor, who is also the chairman of the corporation, also warmly acknowledged the unique and long-standing relationship between Westmoreland and Japan, particularly through the sister-city connection with Tottori.

“Pretty soon, in celebration of our 10th-year anniversary, we’ll be having exchanges as well,” revealed Delancy.