UNDP Fostering Strategic Partnerships to Build Resilience in Kalinago Territory

The United Nations Development Programme, in partnership with the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, the Kalinago Council, and international partner IsraAID, recently marked a significant milestone in advancing climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods in the Kalinago Territory through a multi-activity handover and partnership ceremony on 19 March.

The event highlighted the ongoing implementation of the Strengthening Community Resilience in the Kalinago Territory (SCR-K) project, a flagship initiative funded by the Government of India through the UN-India Development Partnership Fund administered by the UN Office for South-South Cooperation. The project is designed to enhance adaptive capacity, strengthen livelihoods, and preserve the cultural and environmental heritage of Dominica’s indigenous community.

Through this initiative, UNDP and its partners are delivering integrated interventions in three key areas:

 Climate-resilient agriculture and livelihoods – including greenhouse development,

backyard gardening programmes, and support to vulnerable households;

 Forest and watershed management – promoting reforestation, ecosystem restoration,

and community-led environmental stewardship;

 Heritage and cultural preservation – strengthening eco-tourism and sustaining the

Kalinago people’s rich traditions and way of life.

Speaking at the ceremony, representatives emphasized the importance of partnership in delivering meaningful, community-driven development outcomes.

“This initiative reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that resilience is not only built at the infrastructure level, but within communities, livelihoods, and cultural identity. Through this partnership, we are supporting the Kalinago people in strengthening their capacity to adapt, thrive, and lead their own development pathway,” said UNDP Project Analyst, Sawana Fabien.

A key highlight of the proceedings was the formalization of UNDP’s partnership with IsraAID, which will support the implementation of targeted community-level interventions, particularly in climate-smart agriculture, household resilience, and community engagement. This collaboration builds on IsraAID’s established presence and trusted relationships within the Kalinago Territory.

During the event, equipment was handed over to the Forestry Division, reinforcing national and community efforts toward sustainable land management and ecosystem restoration. Also taking place during the ceremony was the signing of agreements with knowledge holders and participants in the Kalinago Knowledge Initiative with the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment.

The SCR-K project represents a continuation and expansion of resilience-building efforts in the Kalinago Territory, aligning with Dominica’s vision of becoming the world’s first climate-resilient nation. It also reflects UNDP’s broader commitment to supporting vulnerable communities through inclusive, gender-responsive, and sustainable development. By strengthening institutional partnerships, empowering communities, and investing in nature-based and livelihood-focused solutions, the initiative is expected to deliver long-term benefits for over 100 households within the Territory.