Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has issued a compelling call to action for Dominican citizens, urging them to strategically position themselves to harness the economic potential generated by the nation’s new international airport. During an official site inspection at the Wesley airport construction location last week, Skerrit emphasized that while the government’s responsibility lies in infrastructure development, the onus now shifts to the populace to leverage emerging opportunities.
The Prime Minister revealed significant international interest in Dominican real estate, disclosing that foreign investors have attempted to purchase substantial land parcels—including one offer exceeding 100 acres—prompting government intervention to protect national assets. “We’ve had to hold it back because there are some lands I believe should stay with the people of Dominica,” Skerrit stated, highlighting the need for domestic economic empowerment.
Skerrit proposed concrete collaborative approaches for local entrepreneurship, suggesting citizens form consortiums or companies to develop hospitality infrastructure including Airbnb facilities, guest houses, and accommodation services targeting airport staff, airline employees, and transit visitors. The Prime Minister articulated a comprehensive vision of nationwide economic integration, explaining how the airport will stimulate growth across all geographic regions and economic sectors—from fisheries in Scottshead to tourism in the valley, agricultural exports from Marigot farmers, and artisanal crafts from the Kalinago Territory.
Currently employing over 100 Dominican workers during its development phase, the international airport project represents a transformative economic catalyst designed to generate multidimensional benefits across the entire island nation, connecting local producers and service providers with global markets and opportunities.