Connex Air Cargo has completed another major milestone with the successful importation of live goats from Miami to Jamaica, marking the company’s first livestock shipment into the country. The flight, conducted on November 21, underscores Jamaica’s urgent need for agricultural reinforcement following Hurricane Melissa.
The operation took place at the Miami International Airport cargo facility, where Connex Air Cargo Chairman Luke Hamilton and members of his team supervised the loading and dispatch of the animals. Company officials described the shipment as an important step in helping to restore Jamaica’s food supply chain and strengthen national resilience.
The livestock movement is the first in a series of targeted agricultural flights planned by Connex Air Cargo to support Jamaica’s short- and medium-term rebuilding of its food systems. The initiative aligns with a national agricultural programme launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries in 2021, which includes the Small Ruminant Development Programme announced by Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries & Mining, Hon. Floyd Green. The strategy aims to boost Jamaica’s goat and sheep production by introducing new genetic material to improve breeding stock, productivity, and long-term food sustainability.
Welcoming the shipment, Minister Green said: “This import is not only timely, it is strategic. Strengthening Jamaica’s small ruminant industry requires access to improved genetics, and this shipment represents an important investment in our farmers and our national food security. Connex Air Cargo has demonstrated the type of logistical partnership that supports the Ministry’s long-term goal of building a resilient and competitive agricultural sector.”
He noted that recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa must address both immediate needs and long-term structural improvements.
The College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) in Jamaica is a key implementer of the ruminant programme, responsible for research, breeding improvement, and distributing livestock to farmers. Connex Air Cargo has been engaged as the air carrier supporting this work by transporting live animals and other agricultural assets.
CASE President Dr. Derrick Deslandes emphasized the importance of the partnership, saying: “Improved genetics are essential if Jamaica is to increase production, reduce imports, meet local demand and potential prepares us for export opportunities. Our collaboration with Connex Air Cargo ensures that the livestock and other agricultural inputs we require can arrive safely and efficiently. This shipment is a major step in advancing the Small Ruminant Development Programme and supporting farmers across the island through a dedicated cargo service.”
Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami, Oliver Mair, also praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of strengthening international linkages. Mair has played a role in connecting diaspora partners, small businesses, and investment opportunities to expand Jamaica’s economic footprint in the United States.
“I commend Connex Air Cargo for stepping forward at a time when Jamaica needs reliable, responsive logistics more than ever,” he said. “Their commitment to supporting agricultural recovery and strengthening our supply chain reflects the innovation and national spirit that move Jamaica forward. Partnerships like these, linking private sector capacity, diaspora engagement, and government support, are essential to rebuilding and expanding economic opportunities for our people.”
Connex Air Cargo operates a fleet of three aircraft with a 22,000-kilogram payload capacity, positioning the company to support relief operations, agricultural regeneration, and trade expansion. Company officials said the livestock flight strengthens Connex’s role in enhancing food security, facilitating disaster-response logistics, and supporting rural farmers.
“Connex was created for moments like this,” Chairman and Founder Luke Hamilton said. “We remain committed to using our wings, expertise, and partnerships to serve Jamaica, especially when our nation needs us most.”
Natalie St. Louis, Strategic Corporate Consultant Jamaica for Connex Air Cargo, added:
“This milestone is about strengthening Jamaica’s capacity. When Government, the private sector, and the diaspora align with agriculture and logistics, our farmers win and our nation advances. Connex is honoured to be that strategic connector, helping to build a stronger and more resilient agricultural future for Jamaica.”
Connex Air Cargo is a Jamaica-born, Miami-based cargo airline specializing in freight solutions for perishables, pharmaceuticals, livestock, and commercial cargo, and serves as a strategic partner for national development, disaster response, and trade expansion.
