In a significant move to address regional water scarcity, Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit declared on Wednesday the nation’s readiness to commence water exports to neighboring Caribbean islands, with St. Lucia being the first prospective partner. This initiative leverages Dominica’s substantial freshwater reserves and established port infrastructure to create a new framework for regional water security.
Prime Minister Skerrit revealed that the formal request originated from the Government of St. Lucia, which sought to evaluate Dominica’s capacity as a potential water supplier. “We have confirmed our capability to fulfill such requests, given our strategically equipped port facilities designed for this exact purpose,” Skerrit stated during a press briefing. While acknowledging the pervasive challenges posed by climate change on water systems throughout the Caribbean—including Dominica’s own—the Prime Minister affirmed the country’s unique position to extend humanitarian and resource support to its neighbors.
Characterizing the water export concept as a long-debated regional strategy, Skerrit noted, “This topic has been a recurring subject of discussion at both national and CARICOM levels for many years. Today, Dominica is finally in a position to realistically supply water across the Caribbean.”
Emphasizing the critical importance of water security, Skerrit urged member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to prioritize collaborative resource sharing. He recalled previously advocating for this issue in regional forums and stressed the need to develop mechanisms that ensure equitable water access for all nations. “We must address how water-rich nations can reliably support those facing shortages,” he emphasized.
To advance the dialogue with St. Lucia, the matter has been formally delegated to the Dominica Water and Sewerage Company (DOWASCO). Ambassador Ian Douglas Bardouille has been appointed to lead inter-agency coordination, underscoring the government’s commitment to efficient and structured implementation. Skerrit reiterated Dominica’s dedication to supporting St. Lucia, describing the two nations as longstanding allies with a shared interest in sustainable development.