Jamaican Rastafari Groups Launch Self-Led Hurricane Relief and Rebuilding Initiative

2026-02-02 - 15:17

Thirty-two Rastafari organizations across Jamaica have united to launch the Relief, Rebuild & Rise (RRR) fundraising webathon, a landmark, community-driven response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The initiative reflects a decisive move toward self-reliance, following concerns that mainstream disaster-relief efforts have failed to meet the needs of the Rastafari community adequately. Organizers say the February 1 webathon aims to raise approximately US$500,000 to support recovery and rebuilding efforts, particularly for members whose cultural, dietary, and spiritual requirements—such as ital food practices and the preservation of sacred community spaces—have been overlooked in conventional relief programs. Speaking with Observer Online, Ras Biah Evans, co-chair of the Rastafari Mansions and Organizations (RMO), said the initiative is rooted in a long-standing tradition of independence within the Rastafari movement. “For decades, the Rastafari community has practiced self-reliance as a means of survival as a marginalized group,” Evans explained. “While there is support being offered, mainstream relief systems—whether public shelters or large charities—are not equipped to meet our dietary, health, and cultural needs. As a result, relief, recovery, and rebuilding for the Rastafari community must be led by the community itself.” RMO Executive Secretary Sister Samantha Fagan echoed that sentiment, noting that the response from entertainers invited to participate in the webathon has been overwhelmingly supportive. “As Rastafari always say, solidarity begins at home,” Fagan said. “Many of the artistes are Rastafari themselves or are deeply connected to the reggae industry, which is heavily influenced by Rastafari culture. When they see a Rastafari-led initiative reaching out, the support comes naturally.” The webathon will feature performances from Grammy-winning artistes Julian Marley, Gramps Morgan, and Kabaka Pyramid, alongside Ghanaian multi-Grammy nominee Rocky Dawuni. Additional performers include Sister Carol, Yami Bolo, Jah9, Spragga Benz, and Hempress Sativa. Commenting on the significance of the collective effort, Julian Marley emphasized the importance of unity. “It’s the togetherness that will make us resilient,” he said. “I’m hoping open hearts around the world show urgent support.” The fundraiser coincides with the start of Black History Month and Reggae Month and will be streamed live on RDDM Media. A launch and public watch event is scheduled for the Bob Marley Museum, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Organizers say the funds raised will be directed toward rebuilding five Rastafari centers severely damaged by the Category Five storm. These centers are expected to serve as strategic hubs for delivering aid and supporting the most vulnerable members of the community. Dr. Kerida McDonald, RMO public relations officer and former senior advisor to the United Nations, said the centers will play a critical role in Jamaica’s broader recovery. “Rastafari has always been about Black redemption,” McDonald said. “Once these centers are rebuilt stronger, they can function as trusted, community-based organizations capable of supporting national recovery efforts—particularly in food security through ital farming and sustainable livelihood development.” While temporary repairs using available materials such as zinc sheets and fallen light poles are already underway, organizers stress that long-term resilience is the ultimate goal. “Our main focus is to partner with local and international stakeholders who can provide the financial and technical support needed to rebuild Rastafari centers and homes using disaster-resistant designs,” said First Man Edward Wray, a founding member of the RMO. “This will allow us to move beyond repeated recovery and concentrate on sustainable development.” The Relief, Rebuild & Rise initiative stands as one of the most unified and culturally grounded disaster-response efforts led by the Rastafari community to date, signaling a broader call for inclusive and culturally responsive approaches to national recovery.