Dominica’s Housing Recovery Project: Progress, Partnerships, and Future Initiatives
After the substantial restructuring in housing sector development, Dominica’s Housing Recovery Project has made notable strides in recent months.
The project underwent a significant overhaul, prioritizing transparency and efficiency, and is primarily supported by funding from the World Bank Program, which has now been extended for an additional 18 months.
According to the Ministry of Housing and Development, with the endorsement of 350 planning applications and the government’s commitment to constructing 420 houses, the programme has already constructed 1,811 homes. This generated job opportunities for 54 local contractors and their teams.
A critical partnership enhancing these efforts is with MMC Development Ltd., a private company collaborating with the government for nearly a decade. Through a Public-Private Partnership and funding from the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, MMC Development Ltd. has contributed significantly to the Ministry of Housing and Development’s success.
This Housing Recovery Project, initiated by the government with the ambitious aim of building 5000 climate-resilient homes by 2030, serves as a symbol of hope for individuals impacted by Hurricane Maria.
A total of 152 local families have already received climate-resilient, earthquake-resistant homes. The government’s proactive approach led to the accelerated handover of 47 homes ahead of the Hurricane Season in addition to delivering 11 reconstructed homes in Dominica’s Grandbay.
The Future Housing Program in the Warner Area has witnessed overwhelming interest with 2,000 applications received, showcasing the success of government initiatives. Moreover, 36 climate-resilient homes have been provided to Kalinago families, marking another milestone.
Under Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit’s leadership, the government aims to offer contemporary, sustainable, and efficient housing solutions to families with low to moderate incomes.
As of December 14, 2023, an additional 73 families, including 22 from the Kalinago community, have received climate-resilient housing under the Housing Recovery Project, according to a report by WIC News.
During the 4th Handing-over Ceremony at the State House Conference Center last year, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, expressed her joy and pride, stating, “It brings me immense joy and honor to stand before you today as we celebrate this festive season. It is a time of giving, a time for spreading joy, and a time for new beginnings. And today, I am honored to share with you a significant accomplishment that embodies the true spirit of this holiday.”
The program’s standout feature, providing families with homes at no cost, has been widely lauded, especially by those affected by natural disasters. Skerrit attributed this accomplishment to the government’s housing policies, ensuring affordable housing for numerous citizens.