GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands – The Cayman Islands is set to host an important multi-agency training exercise, “Horizon 2025,” from January 10 to 19, bringing together nine nations in Grand Cayman.
This significant exercise, organized by local and international defence forces, aims to enhance disaster response and maritime law enforcement capabilities across the Caribbean. Participating nations include the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas, Haiti, and Turks and Caicos.
The goal of Horizon 2025 is to boost regional preparedness and cooperation in tackling complex emergencies and maritime challenges. Key objectives include improving multilateral maritime law enforcement, safety coordination, and bolstering regional security through collaborative strategies, while also reinforcing the Global Maritime Crime Programme through enhanced understanding and unified action.
The training will focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, simulating real-world disaster scenarios. Notably, scenarios will involve humanitarian aid and disaster response actions alongside search and rescue operations.
A simulation will depict an earthquake scenario south of George Town, prompting the activation of the National Emergency Operations Centre with support from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency. Local agencies, including the Cayman Islands Regiment and the Fire Service, will work in conjunction with regional partners during this exercise.
Residents are reminded that Horizon 2025 is a simulation and not an actual emergency situation.
The search and rescue simulation will feature an aircraft emergency incident occurring between Grand Cayman and Little Cayman, with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and the Cayman Islands Coast Guard coordinating rescue efforts alongside regional partners.
Governor Jane Owen emphasized the importance of the exercise, stating:
“Horizon 2025 reflects our collective dedication to resilience and security in the Cayman Islands and the larger Caribbean region. Collaborative efforts enhance our ability to address crises, protect lives, and improve our maritime capabilities.”
The Cayman Islands Government has highlighted the significance of this week-long event, which reinforces the merits of coordinated strategies in promoting safety and resilience throughout the region.
