KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a move underscoring international solidarity and corporate compassion, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has contributed over J$33 million (US$215,000) worth of life-saving medication to Jamaica’s healthcare system, aiding national recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.
The shipment — which includes tens of thousands of units of antibiotics, nutritional products, and chronic illness treatments — was formally handed over to the National Health Fund (NHF) during a ceremony held at the Fund’s headquarters in New Kingston earlier this week.
The donation, one of the largest pharmaceutical contributions since the disaster, is set to be deployed to health centres across the island’s most severely impacted parishes. NHF officials confirmed that the medications will be rapidly integrated into their mobile outreach program, which was scaled up in recent weeks to provide access to over 60 communities cut off by storm-related disruptions.
Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton praised the gesture, calling it “a practical example of global citizenship” and applauding both the NHF and Dr. Reddy’s for their agility and commitment.
“What we are witnessing is a demonstration of meaningful partnership in action,” Tufton said. “This kind of support not only helps us recover — it helps restore dignity and care to Jamaicans who need it most.”
The NHF has played a frontline role in the post-storm health response, deploying mobile units and coordinating with local clinics to maintain access to critical treatment, especially for patients managing chronic conditions.
NHF CEO Everton Anderson described the contribution as “timely and transformative,” noting that the agency’s field teams are still contending with damaged infrastructure and increased patient volumes.
“For families in isolated communities still waiting for power or road access, the mobile pharmacy has been their only source of treatment. This donation expands our capacity to deliver real relief,” Anderson stated.
Representing India’s diplomatic presence, First Secretary Yash Pal Singh emphasized the deeper significance of the moment.
“This is not just about medicine; it’s about friendship. It’s about India standing shoulder to shoulder with Jamaica when it matters,” he said. “Today’s act of giving speaks to our enduring ties and shared humanity.”
With the majority of public health services now restored and pharmacy operations nearing full resumption, authorities say the pharmaceutical injection will help stabilize the system and ease strain on facilities still recovering from the storm’s impact.
The contribution also highlights the role of private international partners in supplementing local government efforts, as Jamaica continues rebuilding the foundations of its healthcare infrastructure in the wake of one of the most disruptive storms in recent years.
