Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services in Dominica

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services in Dominica holds a critical junior cabinet role focused on strengthening public health delivery and advancing social services for vulnerable populations. This position complements the work of the main Minister by concentrating on targeted portfolios such as gender affairs, elderly care, child protection, and support for the differently abled. As of December 2022, the role is held by Honourable Dr. Cassandra Williams.

Core Responsibilities of the Minister of State

The Minister of State plays a central role in formulating, supporting, and implementing national programs that address critical health and social equity challenges. Working under the broader mandate of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, the Minister of State is tasked with leading efforts in areas such as:

• Senior citizens’ protection and welfare programs
• Support systems for at-risk children and youth
• Advocacy and services for persons with disabilities
• Gender equality and gender-based violence prevention strategies

These areas are managed in collaboration with technical units, community organizations, and international development partners. The Minister of State also acts as a liaison to regional agencies and ensures that national legislation and service delivery are aligned with international health and human rights frameworks.

Key Initiatives and Sector Impact

Since assuming office, the Minister of State has spearheaded and supported multiple impactful programs, focusing particularly on public awareness, social protection, and empowerment.

One such initiative is the Build Back Equal Project, a partnership between the Government of Dominica, UN Women, and UNFPA. This project targets the economic empowerment of women through vocational training, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurial support. It also addresses policy and cultural barriers that limit gender equity, aiming to transform economic opportunities for marginalized groups.

Another priority program is the Awareness + Action = Change Campaign, which tackles social issues such as domestic violence, child abuse, and mental health stigma. This campaign leverages public education, community mobilization, and policy advocacy to create a safer and more inclusive society.

Both initiatives reflect the Minister of State’s broader mandate to protect vulnerable groups, prevent exploitation, and promote resilience across communities.

Institutional Alignment and International Cooperation

The position of Minister of State involves active engagement with agencies such as PAHO/WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, and OECS social protection frameworks. These partnerships allow Dominica to benefit from technical assistance, best practice exchange, and funding for development programs.

At the national level, the Minister of State collaborates with the Ministry of Education, the Dominica Council on Ageing, and the Bureau of Gender Affairs to coordinate cross-sectoral policies that reflect shared goals around wellness, equity, and empowerment.

This role also entails presenting national perspectives at regional forums and negotiating participation in international conventions related to children’s rights, gender policy, and health access.

Policy Outlook and Long-Term Vision

The Ministry’s long-term strategy, as supported by the Minister of State, is focused on building a more resilient, inclusive, and rights-based health and social services system. Planned efforts include the expansion of social support networks, improved monitoring of abuse and gender-based violence cases, and enhanced access to specialized care for elderly and differently abled citizens.

Through strategic planning and community-based outreach, the Minister of State is expected to continue championing health equity and integrated social development in line with Dominica’s national goals and global commitments.