Strengthening Caribbean Emergency Logistics Through Partnership

Continuing the collaboration with Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and The United Nations World Food Programme Caribbean Multi-Country Office (WFP), REACT sent volunteers to The Emergency Logistics Coordination Exercise that took place from February 1-7 in Barbados.

The exercise brought together national representatives from ten Caribbean States alongside 12 global logistics NGOs, all with a shared interest in strengthening emergency response capability across the region.

This exercise provided a unique opportunity for the REACT team to interact with different governments and partners on how to enhance and improve disaster response throughout the region. This built on the role REACT played just recently in supporting WFP during the Hurricane Melissa Response in Jamaica, where we were able to help ensure essential assistance reached affected communities safely and efficiently

The exercise aimed to highlight the importance of early planning, real-time collaboration, and effective information sharing in responding to emergency logistics demands during a regional crisis. Conducted within a fictitious scenario reflecting Caribbean realities, it concluded by applying the lessons learned to the actual regional context. 

Across every day of the exercise, the themes were consistent: the critical role of collaboration, the value of trusted partnerships, and the importance of strong professional networks.

For REACT, it was another step towards being better known and better used across the Caribbean humanitarian system.

Reflecting on the relationship between REACT and WFP, Andrew Jackson, Head of Supply Chain at WFP Caribbean MCO shares:

“REACT has supported WFP from the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Melissa through to this training exercise. Their role in the simulation created an opportunity for both organisations to apply practical knowledge and share experiences with participants. This collaboration has strengthened the training and provided valuable insights for all involved.” 
 
This deployment forms part of REACT’s wider Caribbean Strategy and WFP Standby Partnership. In the days following the exercise, REACT team members are meeting directly with CDEMA, WFP, IOM and PAHO, and have already established working-level agreements with ShelterBox, Global Support Development (GSD) and Food for the Poor - further strengthening readiness, relationships and regional resilience.