Minister for Housing and Urban Development of Dominica

The Minister for Housing and Urban Development of Dominica holds responsibility for shaping national policy on housing, land use, and urban planning. This role is central to the island’s development strategy, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters and the increasing need for sustainable community expansion. As of the latest Cabinet appointment, the position is held by Honourable Melissa Skerrit.

Mandate and National Relevance

The Ministry for Housing and Urban Development oversees the implementation of housing projects, the regulation and planning of urban spaces, and the execution of community development initiatives. This portfolio is key to delivering affordable and resilient housing across Dominica while ensuring orderly urban expansion and land management practices that are compatible with environmental protection and disaster risk reduction.

Responsibilities of the Minister

The minister is tasked with delivering comprehensive housing solutions and modernizing the built environment to meet the current and future needs of the population. These responsibilities are divided into four core areas.

Housing Development and Resilience

• Implements housing programs aimed at increasing access to affordable and climate-resilient homes.
• Oversees construction standards and collaborates with partners to deliver large-scale housing initiatives.
• Coordinates post-disaster reconstruction efforts related to residential infrastructure.
• Promotes equitable housing distribution across rural and urban regions.

Urban Planning and Sustainable Cities

• Develops and enforces policies to manage the spatial growth of towns and city centers.
• Integrates environmental sustainability and risk-sensitive planning into new developments.
• Works with agencies such as the Physical Planning Division to ensure projects align with national development guidelines.
• Encourages mixed-use development and green space preservation in expanding communities.

Land Allocation and Regulation

• Manages state-owned lands designated for residential, agricultural, or commercial purposes.
• Regulates squatter settlements and implements programs to regularize land ownership.
• Promotes land use planning through zoning regulations and registration support systems.
• Coordinates with the Lands and Surveys Division and related authorities for parcel management.

Community Empowerment and Upgrading

• Supports infrastructure upgrades in underserved communities, including roads, lighting, and drainage.
• Facilitates access to social services, educational support, and neighborhood engagement programs.
• Develops projects that promote inclusive growth and strengthen local economies.
• Leads initiatives targeting youth and women’s involvement in community planning and home ownership.

Role in National Strategy

This ministerial position contributes directly to Dominica’s national goals for inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and environmental resilience. The ministry’s work supports the vision laid out in the National Resilience Development Strategy 2030, particularly in addressing housing vulnerability and promoting socially cohesive communities.

Through inter-ministerial collaboration, the minister also supports larger development initiatives including infrastructure alignment, land information systems, and disaster risk management programs.