Dominica PM urges citizens to reflect on nation-building ahead of independence
Key Points(5)
- Dominica — Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has urged Dominicans to reflect on their role in nation-building as the country prepares to mark 48 years of independence from Britain on Tuesday.
- In an independence message issued Monday, Skerrit said each generation has a responsibility to build on the achievements of those before it, address contemporary challenges and prepare the way for future generations.
- “It requires us to ask what we can each contribute, how we can strengthen our communities, and what kind of country we want to leave our children,” he said.
- Skerrit, who has served as prime minister since January 2004, said he remained committed to Dominica's development and to listening to citizens, but stressed that everyone has a part to play.
- He pointed to everyday contributions such as supporting local farmers and small businesses, mentoring young people, caring for older residents, protecting the environment and carrying out responsibilities with honesty.
Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has urged Dominicans to reflect on their role in nation-building as the country prepares to mark 48 years of independence from Britain on Tuesday.
In an independence message issued Monday, Skerrit said each generation has a responsibility to build on the achievements of those before it, address contemporary challenges and prepare the way for future generations.
“It requires us to ask what we can each contribute, how we can strengthen our communities, and what kind of country we want to leave our children,” he said.
Skerrit, who has served as prime minister since January 2004, said he remained committed to Dominica's development and to listening to citizens, but stressed that everyone has a part to play.
He pointed to everyday contributions such as supporting local farmers and small businesses, mentoring young people, caring for older residents, protecting the environment and carrying out responsibilities with honesty.
The prime minister also thanked Dominicans living overseas for their continued support, saying they remained part of the country's story and future regardless of where they reside.
Reflecting on the country's 48 years of independence, Skerrit said Dominicans had endured difficult times, rebuilt communities and continued to support one another.
He described the country's cultural traditions — including its music, traditional dress, Kwéyòl language, food and customs — as an important part of national identity. He urged families, teachers, elders and cultural practitioners to help pass that heritage on to younger generations.
Skerrit also outlined the government's responsibility to ensure that national development improves people's lives, pointing to infrastructure, education, health care and economic opportunities as key priorities.
“As we look towards fifty years of Independence, let us move forward with confidence, a clear sense of responsibility and respect for one another,” he said. “We will have differences, but we share a homeland and a common interest in its well-being.”
