Department of Carib Affairs

The Department of Carib Affairs signifies a pivotal moment in the formalised support and recognition of the Kalinago and their interests within the governmental structure. Established in 2000, this governmental body was created to focus exclusively on the social, economic, and cultural development of the Kalinago Territory and its residents. Its formation marked a significant step by the Government of Dominica in dedicating a specialised unit to address the unique needs and aspirations of the indigenous people of Dominica, fostering a more direct line of communication and policy implementation for their advancement and cultural preservation. This move underscored a more profound commitment to integrating the Kalinago people’s unique heritage into national development strategies.

Establishment and Early Mandate of the Department of Carib Affairs

The Department of Carib Affairs was founded with a clear mandate to serve as a central administrative and policy-making entity for matters concerning the Kalinago Territory. Before its creation, responsibilities related to indigenous affairs might have been diffused across various ministries, potentially leading to less focused attention and slower progress. The consolidation of these efforts into a dedicated department underscored a national commitment to the Kalinago people’s well-being and autonomy. Its early work would have significantly focused on several key areas, aiming to improve coordination and effectiveness in addressing community needs.

Key aspects of its early mandate included:

• Policy Development: Crafting and refining specific governmental policies aimed at addressing the socio-economic and cultural challenges relevant to the Kalinago community.
• Resource Allocation: Streamlining the direction of government resources and funding towards crucial projects within the Kalinago Territory, ensuring efficient utilization for maximum benefit.
• Community Engagement: Establishing itself as the primary liaison between the Kalinago Council and the central Government of Dominica, facilitating direct dialogue and collaborative decision-making processes.

This departmental structure aimed to streamline processes and ensure that important initiatives, such as the conceptualization and eventual establishment of Kalinago Barana Autê, received consistent and dedicated governmental support.

Role in Kalinago Development

The establishment of the department in 2000 played a crucial role in advocating for the Kalinago people’s developmental needs. It was instrumental in translating broader national policies into tangible benefits for the community, including essential infrastructure projects, vital social programs, and significant cultural initiatives. This dedicated governmental focus was critical for navigating and enhancing the unique socio-economic landscape of the Kalinago Territory.

The formation of the Department of Carib Affairs in 2000 was a precursor to, and likely heavily influenced, the endorsement of a Carib People Development Plan in 2003. This sequence of events points to a strategic and evolving, multi-year approach by the Government of Dominica towards indigenous affairs, with the department acting as a foundational element in implementing such comprehensive plans and achieving their long-term goals for the Kalinago community.

Collaborative Efforts and Support

The department would have fostered close collaboration with key partners, including the Kalinago Development Fund and various government ministries, such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, to collectively achieve its objectives. These inter-agency partnerships were vital for leveraging a broader range of resources and expertise across different sectors, providing comprehensive support to the Kalinago community.