Dominica has taken another step toward expanding its wellness tourism industry with the appointment of a National Wellness Tourism Advisory Committee to help guide the country’s long-term strategy for one of the fastest-growing segments of global travel.
The announcement was made by Minister for Tourism Denise Charles-Pemberton during the inaugural Discover Dominica Authority Wellness Fair, where she said the committee will provide expert advice as the country works to develop an authentic and sustainable wellness tourism product.
According to the minister, the committee has been established to support the Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority in shaping policies and initiatives that reflect Dominica’s natural strengths while ensuring the sector develops in a coordinated and sustainable manner.
“To help guide this journey, I established a National Wellness Tourism Advisory Committee to advise the Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority as we build an authentic, sustainable and globally competitive wellness tourism sector,” Charles-Pemberton said.
The advisory committee comprises professionals from a range of disciplines connected to health, wellness, tourism and community development. Members include Dr. Paula Lockhart, Ellen Joseph, D’Africa Thomas, Natalie “Sister Nats” Charles, Emma Espirit, Toni Okinina, Yvonne Armour and Dr. Renauld Deschamps. The minister thanked each member for accepting the responsibility of helping to shape the future of the industry.
The Minister said global demand for destinations that promote health, relaxation and authentic experiences continues to grow, placing Dominica in a strong position to expand its tourism offerings.
“Wellness is one of the fastest-growing sectors in global tourism, and I believe it presents Dominica’s next great opportunity. Not because we have to reinvent ourselves, but because we already possess what the world is searching for,” she said.
She noted that government investments in expanded air access, new hotel developments, upgraded visitor attractions and other tourism infrastructure have laid the foundation for the next phase of industry growth. With many of the country’s major tourism projects completed or nearing completion, the minister said greater attention can now be directed toward maximizing opportunities in wellness tourism.
The committee is expected to play an important role in identifying opportunities, advising on industry standards and supporting initiatives that showcase Dominica’s natural environment, therapeutic resources and cultural experiences. Officials believe its work will help position the island as a leading wellness destination while creating new economic opportunities for local communities and tourism stakeholders.
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