Minister for Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development

The Minister for Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development is a key member of Dominica’s Cabinet, charged with promoting national identity, empowering young people, advancing athletic development, and fostering resilient communities. This role supports a broad range of sectors that shape the Dominican cultural and social landscape, making it essential to both heritage preservation and future innovation. The current officeholder is Hon. Gretta Roberts, who was appointed after the 2022 general elections.

Scope and Structure of the Ministry

The Ministry comprises several core divisions and affiliated agencies, including:

These units work together to implement policies and programs that preserve Dominica culture, nurture community spirit, promote wellness through sports, and encourage civic participation through local government and cooperatives.

Core Responsibilities and Functions

The Minister’s portfolio includes oversight of both policy development and program delivery in areas such as:

  • Cultural heritage and the arts, including the safeguarding of traditional music, dance, folklore, and language
  • National celebrations, such as Independence and Emancipation events, and the promotion of national emblems
  • Youth empowerment, with a focus on leadership development, volunteerism, education, and career-building initiatives
  • Sports and recreation, through maintenance of playing fields and courts, athletic training support, and sporting events
  • Community infrastructure and planning, addressing local needs through village councils and development grants
  • Postal services and cooperatives, ensuring community access to communication tools and economic self-help mechanisms

The Ministry plays a central role in Dominica’s national youth policy, cultural policy formation, and sports development plans. It collaborates with stakeholders in the public, private, and civil society sectors to promote inclusion and participation in national development.

Recent Initiatives and Development Projects

Recent efforts under this Ministry include a suite of infrastructure projects funded under BNTF Cycle 10, which supports rural development. These include:

  • Upgrades to sports facilities such as the Trafalgar Basketball Court and Delices Playing Field
  • Community enhancements like the Grand Bay Multipurpose Facility, Warner Water System, and Soufriere Fish Processing Centre
  • Educational and youth spaces, including expansions to schools and community learning hubs

Such initiatives reflect the Ministry’s commitment to improving the quality of life, preserving cultural assets, and offering young people opportunities to thrive.