The Nature Island of the Caribbean
Dominica, officially the Commonwealth of Dominica, is a small island nation in the Lesser Antilles, Caribbean Sea. Known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean”, it is famous for its lush rainforests, active volcanoes, hot springs, and unspoiled natural beauty — making it one of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Dominica’s history tells a story of resilience, colonial struggle, and independence.
Key Historical Timeline:
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Pre-1493: Inhabited by the Kalinago (Carib) people.
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1493: Discovered by Christopher Columbus on a Sunday, hence the name “Dominica” (Latin for Sunday).
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1635–1763: French and British fought for control over the island.
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1763: Became a British colony under the Treaty of Paris.
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1834: Slavery abolished under British rule.
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1967: Achieved Associated State status.
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1978 (Nov 3): Gained full independence from the United Kingdom.
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2017: Hurricane Maria caused major destruction but recovery followed rapidly.
Today, Dominica stands as a resilient, environmentally conscious republic.
🧭 Basic National Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Commonwealth of Dominica |
| Capital City | Roseau |
| President | Sylvanie Burton (as of 2025) |
| Prime Minister | Roosevelt Skerrit |
| Government Type | Parliamentary Democracy under a Republic |
| Area | ~750 sq. km |
| Population | ~73,000 (2025 est.) |
| Currency | Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) |
| Time Zone | UTC −4 |
| Dial Code | +1-767 |
| Top-Level Domain | .dm |
| National Motto | “Après Bondie, C’est La Ter” (“After God, the Earth”) |
⚖️ Government and Leadership
| Position | Current Officeholder (as of 2025) |
|---|---|
| President | Sylvanie Burton |
| Prime Minister | Roosevelt Skerrit |
| Legislature | House of Assembly |
| Judiciary | Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court |
| Administrative Divisions | 10 Parishes |
Dominica’s government promotes environmental sustainability, disaster resilience, and renewable energy initiatives.
🗺️ Administrative Structure
| Division | Details |
|---|---|
| Parishes | 10 (including Saint George, Saint Paul, Saint Andrew, Saint David, etc.) |
| Capital | Roseau |
| Largest Urban Areas | Roseau, Portsmouth, Marigot |
| Local Government | Village councils and municipal councils |
Dominica is divided into 10 parishes:
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Saint Andrew
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Saint David
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Saint George (includes capital Roseau)
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Saint John
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Saint Joseph
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Saint Luke
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Saint Mark
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Saint Patrick
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Saint Paul
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Saint Peter
🌐 Geography & Environment
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Location: Eastern Caribbean, between Guadeloupe (north) and Martinique (south).
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Topography: Mountainous volcanic island with dense rainforests.
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Highest Peak: Morne Diablotins (1,447 m).
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Climate: Tropical rainforest climate; high rainfall and humidity.
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Rivers: Over 365 rivers and numerous waterfalls.
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Natural Wonders: Boiling Lake — world’s second-largest hot spring.
Dominica is one of the youngest volcanic islands in the Lesser Antilles, often called “The Nature Island” for its pristine environment.
Local Government Structure
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Parishes function primarily as geographic units.
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Village councils and urban councils govern at the local level.
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The government is working to enhance disaster preparedness, infrastructure, and community participation through decentralization.
Leadership & Governance
Dominica has earned international recognition for its climate leadership, disaster resilience, and green development policies.
Key focus areas:
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Climate-resilient housing and infrastructure
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Geothermal energy and renewable transition
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Digital transformation of public services
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Sustainable tourism and agriculture
Law Enforcement & Safety
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Primary agency: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force
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Includes special branches: Coast Guard, Fire and Ambulance Services
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Dominica is generally peaceful and safe for both locals and tourists
🕌 Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Christianity (Roman Catholic majority) |
| Official Language | English |
| Local Dialect | Dominican Creole French (Kwéyòl) |
| Indigenous Community | Kalinago Territory in the east |
Cultural Highlights:
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Festivals: World Creole Music Festival, Independence Day, Carnival.
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Music: Cadence-lypso, Reggae, Bouyon.
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Cuisine: Mountain chicken (frog legs), callaloo soup, plantains, and coconut bakes.
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Traditional Life: Eco-agriculture, herbal medicine, and crafts.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| GDP (2025 est.) | ~$1.2 billion |
| Main Industries | Tourism, agriculture, geothermal energy, offshore services |
| Major Exports | Bananas, soaps, fruits, essential oils |
| Currency | Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) |
| Tourism Contribution | Expanding through eco-tourism and cruise visitors |
| Special Focus | Climate resilience and green economy |
Dominica is a global leader in eco-tourism and aims to become the world’s first climate-resilient nation.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Sector | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Free and compulsory between ages 5–16 |
| Main University | Ross University School of Medicine |
| Literacy Rate | ~97% |
| Healthcare System | Free public healthcare; modern hospitals and clinics |
| Life Expectancy | ~78 years |
Dominica is recognized for its focus on education, health, and disaster management.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Airports | Douglas–Charles International Airport, Canefield Airport |
| Ports | Roseau, Woodbridge Bay, Portsmouth |
| Roads | Mountainous routes connecting coastal villages |
| Energy | Geothermal and hydropower expansion |
| Connectivity | High-speed internet and modern ferry links with neighboring islands |
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Destinations:
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Boiling Lake: World’s second-largest hot spring.
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Morne Trois Pitons National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Trafalgar Falls: Twin waterfalls in tropical forest.
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Emerald Pool: Natural swimming lagoon in the rainforest.
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Champagne Reef: Snorkeling spot with volcanic bubbles.
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Kalinago Territory: Home of the indigenous Carib people.
Dominica is a paradise for hikers, divers, and nature lovers.
🌍 Global Role & Relations
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| UN Membership | Since 1978 |
| Regional Alliances | CARICOM, OECS, Commonwealth |
| Global Partners | USA, UK, China, Venezuela |
| Reputation | Leader in environmental protection |
| Focus Areas | Climate resilience, sustainable tourism, education |
📝 Summary
Dominica is a small island nation with a big environmental heart.
From its volcanoes and waterfalls to its cultural harmony and eco-vision, Dominica embodies the true essence of nature, resilience, and sustainability in the Caribbean.
📢 News & Articles
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“Dominica’s Journey to Becoming the First Climate-Resilient Nation”
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“The Magic of Morne Trois Pitons National Park”
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“Eco-Tourism in the Heart of the Caribbean”
🎯 Our Mission
Through this global knowledge hub, AFP aims to showcase Dominica’s remarkable commitment to green living, climate adaptation, and eco-tourism excellence.
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