Dominica makes strides towards climate-resilience, gives new homes to 42 beneficiaries

Tuesday, 19th March 2024

The Government of Dominica in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing provided keys to 42 new climate resilient homes to families across multiple communities, including 15 families from the Kalinago territory. The houses were provided under the Housing Recover Project, during a brief ceremony held on Monday. During the ceremony, the Housing Minister, Melissa Skerrit, said that the ceremony underscores the significance of the work being done through this project and amplifies its impact on society. The Minister was accompanied by Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, President Sylvanie Burton and a few members of the Cabinet during the ceremony.

Impact of Housing Recovery Project

She went on to speak about the intricacies of the initiative, stating that the Housing Recovery Project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development since its launch in 2019, has been a beacon of hope for families whose lives were shattered by the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria. "Since its inception, the project has been dedicated to providing resilient housing solutions to households facing unimaginable challenges, ranging from financial constraints to the fear of adverse weather conditions in their current accommodations," noted Melissa Skerrit. Melissa Skerrit took advantage of the gathering meant to celebrate the hand over 42 new homes to highlight the fact that the Government is not just celebrating the fact that the nation is one step closer to the target of providing resilient homes which can stand adverse weather conditions in the future but celebrating the sheer resilience and determination of the families who will now feel the joy and relief of owning their own resilient homes. She added that as a minister, she felt proud to share with the attendees the progress made by Dominica in housing resilience within the last year. According to Melissa Skerrit, between January 2023 and March 18, 2024 the ministry has handed over a total of 207 homes. These homes were provided under the Kalinago Housing Project, the Modern Resilient Development Project, and the Housing Recovery Project. By the time yesterday's proceedings came to an end, over 231 homes were handed over under the Housing Recovery Project. She also mentioned that around 90 other homes are presently under construction, while several others are under mobilization or in the bidding stage. In addition to this, the housing minister extended her wholehearted gratitude to the World Bank and the HRP staff for their support in helping to customize the program for the well-being of the community.

Housing Recovery Project initiative provided employment to several locals

Melissa Skerrit stressed the fact that all of these homes were constructed by local contractors and skilled workers. "This initiative has not only provided homes for the residents but also employed the expertise of our local workforce," she added. The Minister said that throughout this period, the Ministry got reports of builders transitioning into becoming contractors while other labourers honed their skills to master their field, becoming proficient tradespeople in the process. While reiterating that the Ministry continues to support local workers, she added that they will soon release a list of all the individuals who have excelled in various services such as plumbing, electrical, wiring, painting, carpentry, and other aligned fields.

Dominica's Government aims to help families affected by Hurricane Maria

Not only this, but Melissa Skerrit also talked about the Government's aim to support families in need of help. She stated that through the housing project, the government is continuously striving to improve and deliver the best possible outcomes for its citizens and vulnerable families to ensure durability. She noted that the Government of Dominica has consistently focused on incorporating resilient features such as shatterproof windows and concrete roofs, creating the possibility of adding a second floor for future generations. While talking about the handover ceremony on Monday, Melissa Skerrit said that it is not just about handing over keys but is about delivering hope and security to the 42 households across various communities in Dominica, including 15 families from the Kalinago territory.

"This underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring that all communities, regardless of location or circumstance, have access to safe, comfortable and resilient housing," Melissa skerrit noted.

In addition to this, Housing Minister Skerrit extended her sincere appreciation to the beneficiaries of the Housing Recovery Project for their patience, resilience and unwavering spirit throughout this journey. While congratulating the beneficiaries, she encouraged them to embrace the responsibility of home ownership with pride and dedication. She also said that their resilience and determination have brought them to this day, and they will continue to thrive in their new homes.