Modular home assembly begins as Jamaica advances post-Melissa housing rollout

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Government says the build-and-assembly stage of the modular housing programme began last week and is moving ahead. In a statement issued Monday, officials said the initiative, rolled out after Hurricane Melissa damaged large parts of the country, had earlier centred on site reviews and procurement.

"It is expected that in the coming weeks and months the construction of bases and assembling of houses section of the project will be sufficiently advanced in order to commence the handing over process. Cabinet Minister, Robert Montague's tour of western Jamaica in order to further assess progress made concerning the project, which had been set for last week, has been rescheduled for this week," the Andrew-Holness-led administration said.

About 1,500 modular homes are already in Jamaica. Officials expect another 1,000 units to reach the island before the end of this month. Further details will be shared with the media after the ministerial tour.

The project faced brief hold-ups tied to global shipping pressures around the Chinese New Year and later logistical constraints. The Government said those issues have now been fully cleared.

Authorities stressed they will not sacrifice quality or safety. A thorough review process is in place to ensure foundation work meets strict regulatory and environmental requirements. Officials also said ongoing checks are needed to verify land tenure and confirm plots are suitable for building.

"The Government remains steadfast in its mandate to deliver resilient housing solutions and will not be distracted by efforts to sensationalise the complex, data-driven work required to ensure our citizens receive the support they deserve. Every site undergoes a critical assessment to ensure suitability, a necessary step that ensures the long-term safety of these housing units," the Government said.