Dominica is observing a double landmark in its governance history this May: the 36th anniversary of Local Government Month and an impressive 129 years since local government was first introduced under the Roseau Town Board.
Speaking at the official launch of Local Government Month 2025, Minister for Community Development Gretta Roberts reflected on the enduring legacy of community leadership and emphasised the evolving role of local councils in national development.
“This month invites us to pause, reflect on our achievements, recommit to our goals, and chart the way forward,” Roberts said, as she addressed stakeholders gathered for the ceremony.
The theme for this year—“Building Strong Partnerships for Sustained Community Resilience”—sets the tone for a month of activities that highlight collaboration across all levels of society. According to the Minister, true resilience lies in strategic cooperation among communities, agencies, businesses, and international partners.
Roberts affirmed that the Local Government Division and councils across the island have aligned with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit’s climate vision—positioning Dominica as the world’s first climate-resilient nation. This, she explained, is not just a policy ambition but a working framework embedded in shelter development, infrastructure upgrades, and emergency readiness efforts.
“We’ve strengthened emergency shelter capacity through regional facilities and rolled out resilient housing programs. The goal remains the same—ensuring dignity, safety, and well-being for all citizens,” she said.
Among the standout initiatives is the Community Emergency Readiness Programme, which continues to equip villages with disaster preparedness tools and training, a crucial need in the post-Hurricane Maria era.
As Dominica battles a rising tide of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), Roberts placed strong emphasis on the link between health and resilience. She announced a key highlight of this year’s observance: the “Highway to Health” Wellness Fair, to be held on May 20 at the Roseau Bayfront. The event aims to promote physical and mental wellness, essential components of cohesive, stress-resilient communities.
“Good health empowers individuals and communities to face challenges with confidence and cohesion,” she noted.
This year’s program also reflects a broader mission of community engagement—incorporating elements of prayer, shared learning, and action. Roberts praised the commitment of the Local Government Division’s leadership and staff, whose tireless efforts continue to support villages and towns in maintaining vital services, infrastructure, and inclusive spaces for youth and vulnerable groups.
From waste management to disaster preparedness, and from social support to infrastructure upkeep, Dominica’s councils remain pillars of local governance—rooted in tradition, but forward-looking in purpose.
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