DOMINICA-Prime Minister says Dominica has made much progress since gaining independence 47 years ago.

ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – Dominica will be observing its 47th anniversary of political independence from Britain on Monday, with the government saying, despite being a small nation, it has “a mighty spirit, tested by storms and trials, yet steady in faith and determined in hope.

“Our journey has never been easy, but it has always moved forward. Each generation has carried the torch, building upon the sacrifices of those before, shaping a Dominica that stands resilient, proud, and full of promise,” Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said in his independence message.

He said that progress is visible across the board, and that the much-sought-after international airport is “rising from vision to reality, a national dream taking form, a gateway which will connect our people and our products to the world”.

Skerrit said that the geothermal plant is forging a cleaner, more affordable energy future that will strengthen the local economy, protect the planet, and that thousands of families now live in safe, beautiful, climate-resilient homes —homes built not just of concrete, but of compassion and care.

Skerrit, who has been head of government here since 2004, said that the island’s infrastructure, health, and other sectors of the economy have been improving and that the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI) continues to serve as an instrument for the” common good, funding homes, health centres, hospitals, and significant infrastructure”.

Under the CBI, Dominica grants citizenship to foreign nationals in return for their significant contribution to the island’s socio-economic development.

He said that through the establishment of the new Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority, “we have strengthened regional cooperation, transparency, and trust, ensuring that the benefits of this Programme continue to flow to our people for generations to come”.

Skerrit also praised Dominica for being among the “four pioneering nations” that, from October 1 this year, had implemented whole free movement within the region under the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Single Market and Economy (CSME), which allows for the free movement of goods, skills, labour, and services across the Community.

“This milestone expands hope and opportunity and deepens our sense of Caribbean identity. It affirms that we are not alone, that we are part of a community of nations united by history, destiny, and shared purpose.

“When the story is told, it will be said that Dominica helped to turn a promise into a living reality. That is your country. Be proud,” Skerrit said, telling the younger generation, “this is your time.

“Take the skills, take the training, take the chances, and build. Build industries, build communities, build the Dominica you wish to inherit.

“To our diaspora, we thank you for your steadfast love and support. You carry our flag across the world, reminding us that Dominica’s heart beats strong wherever her sons and daughters reside.”

He said, given the fact that God has already indicated the “plans I have for you,” Dominicans should take that assurance and “let us move forward, renewing our unity, our industry, and our care for one another.

“Let us continue to dream boldly, work diligently, and stand firmly in faith, knowing that together, there is no limit to what Dominica can achieve.”

Meanwhile, 18 individuals and one group will receive Meritorious Service Awards during the ceremony to observe the country’s 47th anniversary of independence.

Former prime ministers Roosevelt Bernard “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles will be posthumously awarded the nation’s highest honour, the Dominica Award of Honour, in recognition of their sterling contributions to national development.

Chief executive officer of the International Airport Development Company, Samuel Johnson; Religious Leader, Rev. J Evans Dodds; and medical practitioner Dr. Basil Fadipe will receive Dominica’s second-highest award, the Sisserou Award of Honour.

The awards will be presented at the Independence Day Observance Ceremony at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium on Monday evening.