Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, serving in his dual capacity as Minister for the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA), has formally appointed the inaugural Board of Directors for the agency in accordance with the provisions of the 2023 Disaster Management Act. This landmark appointment occurs more than two years following the legislation’s enactment.
The newly constituted board will be chaired by Colin Dowe, with Carlyn Mc Quilkin assuming the role of Deputy Chairman. Additional members include Lazarus Joseph, Jessmon Prince, Samantha Dickson, Andre Charles, Jonell Benjamin, Lydia Browne, and Sylvan Mc Intyre.
According to an official notice published in the 23 January 2026 Government Gazette and dated 20 January 2026, the board’s mandate will extend for a three-year term commencing 1 February 2026. The selection process, as outlined in the Act, prioritizes individuals demonstrating expertise in emergency mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery operations, alongside ex-officio office holders with relevant disaster management responsibilities.
The legislative framework additionally establishes an advisory council, to be chaired by the Prime Minister. This council will serve as a critical coordination platform, bringing together government ministries, statutory bodies, district disaster committees, private sector representatives, non-governmental organizations, relief agencies, and faith-based groups. Its primary function will be to facilitate consultation and collaborative action on all disaster management and risk reduction initiatives, including financial response mechanisms during emergencies.