Dominica: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit met with Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the Commonwealth of Dominica – Scott Furssedonn-Wood MVO on Independence Day that was followed by the National Day Observance Ceremony.
The United Kingdom Government was honoured with the Sisserou Award of Honour on November 03, 2024, during the official ceremony held at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau.
After the award ceremony, PM Skerrit met with the UK Ambassador and shared the glimpses on his official social media page and expressed that the federation is deepening the partnership with the UK to bring tangible benefits to their people and promote the shared objectives in sustainable development, climate resilience and education.
Reportedly, Dominica presented the esteemed Sisserou Award of Honour upon the United Kingdom and recognised the substantial support, which was rendered by the UK following the devastation of the island caused by Hurricane Maria.
The award was bestowed by President of Dominica – Sylvanie Burton, who highlighted the critical financial and administrative roles played by the UK in the recovery process of the nation.
At ceremony, President Burton emphasized the contribution of UK towards the establishment of the Climate Resilience Execution Agency of Dominica (CREAD) as essential.
However, before closure on Dec 31, 2023, agency’s role was formulated as a comprehensive strategy and secured the funding for various projects that aims to strengthen Dominica’s resilience to climate-related issues.
Considering the achievement, UK High Commissioner – Scott Furssedonn-Wood said that he is delighted on behalf of the Government of the United Kingdom to accept the award, the ‘Sisserou Award of Honour’ in recognition of the contribution by UK to Dominica’s extraordinary journey of climate resilient recovery from Hurricane Maria.
He expressed further that they are proud to be a part of an internationally recognised blueprint for climate resilient development and progress towards its bold ambition, as Dominica is going to be the world’s first climate resilient nation.
During the ceremony, President Sylvanie Burton noted several ongoing initiatives in Dominica that are funded by the United Kingdom. The £25.7 million Loubiere to Bagatelle Road and Bridge Rehabilitation Project is also among these, that aims at improving climate resilience and road safety.
Another significant project is a £24 million grant focused on upgrading the nation’s water supply and wastewater systems, which is essential for enhancing resilience against natural disasters as well as climate change.
Notably, the Sisserou Award of Honour was named for Dominica’s national bird, the Sisserou Parrot which serves as a significant recognition of the country’s gratitude towards individuals and organisations whose contributions have positively impacted the development of the country, embodying commitment to excellence and leadership.