Ryan Anselm

Ryan Anselm is a highly respected Dominican agricultural scientist and senior civil servant who currently serves as the Permanent Secretary (Ag.) in the Ministry of Agriculture. With a career spanning over two decades, he has been a central figure in Dominica’s quest for food security and the modernisation of its agricultural sector.

Birthplace and Upbringing

Ryan Anselm was born in the village of Riviere Cyrique, located in the parish of Saint David, near Grand Fond. He is the son of Mr. Bernard Anselm and Mrs. Edris Anselm. Riviere Cyrique is a lush, agricultural community on Dominica’s windward coast, known for its steep cliffs and fertile volcanic soil, an environment that likely fostered his lifelong connection to the land.

Although he was born in Riviere Cyrique, Anselm was primarily raised in Grand Bay (South Dominica), often referred to as the island’s cultural capital. His childhood in Grand Bay was active; he was known locally as a talented athlete, representing the Grandbay Primary School in national basketball competitions as far back as 1988.

Educational Background

Anselm’s education reflects a steady journey from local excellence to international specialization:

• Primary & Secondary Education: He attended the Grandbay Primary School and later the St. Mary’s Academy (SMA), where he balanced his studies with competitive sports.
• Clifton Dupigny Community College: He completed his preliminary tertiary studies in Roseau, graduating as part of the Class of 1996.
• International Higher Education:
  • Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ): Anselm pursued his undergraduate degree in the United States, where he was recognized as an International Student Ambassador and graduated with high honors.
  • OAS Fellowship (2010): In 2010, he was awarded a prestigious Organization of American States (OAS) fellowship to pursue a Master of Science in Agronomy and Crop Science. This advanced degree provided the technical foundation for his expertise in plant health and quarantine.

Career Trajectory

Anselm has spent over 25 years in the Dominican civil service, evolving from a field officer to a top policymaker.

1. Technical Officer (Plant Protection): He spent much of his early career as the Head of the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit. He was responsible for safeguarding the island against pests like the Black Sigatoka and the Giant African Snail.
2. Regional Leadership: In 2014, he gained regional prominence when he was elected Co-Chair of the Caribbean Plant Health Directors (CPHD) Forum, representing the interests of the entire Caribbean agricultural sector.
3. Permanent Secretary (Ag.): By late 2023, he was appointed to act in the office of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy. In this role, he manages the ministry’s multi-million-dollar budget and oversees projects such as the medicinal cannabis sector and the National Abattoir.

Personal Life

Anselm is widely respected for his humility and boots-on-the-ground leadership style. He is an advocate for food sovereignty and is frequently heard on local radio encouraging Dominicans to grow what you eat. He remains a mentor to young agriculturists, often visiting the Dominica State College to speak with students about the modern Blue and Green economy.