Dominica

The Nature Island of the Caribbean – Volcanoes, Rainforests, and Resilience

Dominica, officially known as the Commonwealth of Dominica, is a mountainous island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, nestled between Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. Nicknamed the “Nature Island”, it is famed for its lush rainforests, boiling lake, volcanoes, and commitment to eco-tourism and climate resilience.

Formation and Historical Background

  • Originally inhabited by the Kalinago (Carib) people, who still maintain an indigenous territory today.

  • Sighted by Christopher Columbus on November 3, 1493, but colonized much later.

  • Changed hands between the French and British until Britain gained full control in 1805.

  • Gained independence from the UK on November 3, 1978, becoming a republic within the Commonwealth.

  • Maintains a strong democratic tradition and leadership in climate and environmental policy.

Administrative Information

Attribute Details
Country Name Commonwealth of Dominica
Capital Roseau
Continent North America (Caribbean)
Official Language English
National Language Dominican Creole (Kwéyòl)
Currency Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Area Approx. 751 sq. km
Population Approx. 73,800 (2025 est.)
Time Zone Atlantic Standard Time (UTC−4)
ISO Code DM
Internet TLD .dm
Calling Code +1-767

Religious Affiliation (Estimated)

Religion Population Share
Christianity (Roman Catholic, Evangelical, Pentecostal) ~90%
Other / Unaffiliated ~10%

Government and Leadership

Position Current Officeholder (as of 2025)
President Sylvanie Burton (Dominica’s first female president)
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit (Dominica Labour Party – DLP)
Government Type Parliamentary republic
Legislature Unicameral – House of Assembly
Judiciary Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court

Administrative Divisions (Parishes)

Dominica is divided into 10 parishes:

  1. Saint Andrew

  2. Saint David

  3. Saint George (includes capital Roseau)

  4. Saint John

  5. Saint Joseph

  6. Saint Luke

  7. Saint Mark

  8. Saint Patrick

  9. Saint Paul

  10. Saint Peter

Local Government Structure

  • Parishes function primarily as geographic units.

  • Village councils and urban councils govern at the local level.

  • 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:

  • Climate-resilient housing and infrastructure

  • Geothermal energy and renewable transition

  • Digital transformation of public services

  • Sustainable tourism and agriculture

Law Enforcement & Safety

  • Primary agency: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force

  • Includes special branches: Coast Guard, Fire and Ambulance Services

  • Dominica is generally peaceful and safe for both locals and tourists

Economy & Industry

  • Main sectors:

    • Agriculture (bananas, citrus, root crops)

    • Eco-tourism and cruise tourism

    • Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program

    • Construction and renewable energy

  • GDP (2024): Approx. USD 610 million

  • Resilience-building post-Hurricane Maria (2017) continues

  • Economic diversification includes agro-processing, digital economy, and green technologies

Education & Institutions

  • Education is free and compulsory from age 5 to 16

  • Literacy rate: approx. 94%

  • Major institutions:

    • Dominica State College

    • All Saints University School of Medicine

    • University of the West Indies – Open Campus

  • Focus areas:

    • Technical and vocational training

    • E-learning and IT integration

    • Scholarship and capacity development programs

Healthcare

  • Public healthcare is free or low-cost

  • Major facilities:

    • Dominica China Friendship Hospital (Roseau)

    • Health centers in every parish

  • Areas of progress:

    • Primary care and immunization

    • Post-disaster medical infrastructure

    • Mental health awareness and services

Transport & Connectivity

  • Roads: Coastal roads connect key towns; interior is mountainous

  • Public transport: Private minivans and taxis

  • Airports:

    • Douglas–Charles Airport (Melville Hall) – main international airport

    • Canefield Airport – regional flights

  • Seaports:

    • Woodbridge Bay Port (cargo)

    • Roseau Cruise Ship Berth, Portsmouth Ferry Terminal

Tourism & Attractions

Natural Wonders:

  • Boiling Lake, Trafalgar Falls, Emerald Pool, Morne Trois Pitons National Park (UNESCO)

  • Champagne Reef (underwater geothermal bubbles), Indian River tours

Cultural & Historical Sites:

  • Kalinago Territory – indigenous heritage and crafts

  • Fort Shirley, Roseau Botanical Gardens, Creole Festival

Tourism focus:

  • Nature-based and wellness tourism

  • Hiker’s paradise, dive sites, and eco-resorts

Culture & Lifestyle

  • Ethnic composition: Predominantly of African descent; includes Kalinago (indigenous), European, and mixed heritage

  • Languages: English (official), Dominican Creole (Kwéyòl)

  • Cuisine: Mountain chicken (crapaud), callaloo, breadfruit, fish water (fish soup), fig and saltfish

  • Cultural expression:

    • Deep connection to land and tradition

    • Vibrant festivals, Creole Day, and World Creole Music Festival

    • Music: Cadence-lypso, bouyon, reggae, and folk styles

Summary

Dominica stands as a global model of a resilient, nature-forward island republic, leading in eco-tourism, climate innovation, and sustainable living. With its rich culture, volcanic beauty, and bold policies, it continues to inspire as the Nature Island of the Caribbean.