In a landmark move addressing historical injustices, the Barbadian government has initiated the formal transfer of land ownership to 132 families in the Six Men’s community of St. Peter. This initiative, known as the Six Men’s Life Improvement Project, represents a significant step in correcting decades of land tenure insecurity.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced the progress during a Barbados Labour Party meeting in Speightstown, revealing that 37 households have already received formal offer letters. The remaining qualified tenants are undergoing property surveys to facilitate complete title transfers through the Tenant’s Freehold Purchase program—a policy originally established under former Prime Minister Tom Adams.
The government is maintaining the original purchasing terms established decades ago, offering land at just 10 cents per square foot without inflation adjustments. Mottley emphasized the extraordinary opportunity this presents, noting that prospective landowners can acquire property for less than the cost of premium sneakers—approximately US$250 for a standard plot.
Mottley framed the initiative as a form of historical reparation, stating: ‘The people who were treated as beasts of burden for centuries have already paid for this land over and over through your blood, sweat and tears. Today we ask you simply to consummate that relationship.’
Colin Jordan, BLP candidate for St. Peter, highlighted that this resolution addresses a half-century-old community concern. He specifically rejected the term ‘squatters’ for residents who have occupied the land for decades, expressing offense at such characterizations.
The comprehensive project includes surveying the entire area and making necessary adjustments to ensure proper road access for emergency vehicles, demonstrating the government’s commitment to fully integrating these communities into formal infrastructure networks.