DOMINICA STRENGTHENS ITS MARITIME FUTURE AT GLOBAL CONFERENCE
Honourable Denise Charles-Pemberton, Dominica's Minister for Tourism, together with Maritime Administrator Nawanna Shillingford, is representing Dominica at the 2nd Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference, held under the theme "Sailing Toward a Sustainable Future."
In her address, Minister Charles-Pemberton underscored the urgent realities facing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on the climate frontline, while presenting bold and forward-thinking measures to build resilience in the maritime sector.
Bold Measures for Maritime Resilience
The Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening the maritime workforce through digitization training, modernizing professions to engage youth, and creating a global training and internship hub to expand sector capacity.
Minister also proposed a "twinning" model, where advanced maritime nations partner with SIDS to transfer expertise in operations, cyber resilience, digital literacy, and green innovation.
She further called for the establishment of a Global Maritime Solidarity Fund to help offset the high costs of port modernization and digital transformation—critical for ensuring SIDS remains competitive, secure, and sustainable in the global maritime industry.
Dominica's Marine Momentum
Minister Charles-Pemberton's participation comes at a time when Dominica has been making significant strides in its marine tourism and maritime development:
- The construction of a new marina in Portsmouth signals readiness to welcome international yachts and pleasure crafts.
- Hosting of major nautical events like Traditour 2025, the Poker Run, and Dive Fest has spotlighted Dominica's seas as vibrant, adventurous, and culturally rich.
These efforts are part of a broader vision to position Dominica as the new destination for sea lovers—an island where maritime tourism meets sustainability, adventure, and Caribbean hospitality.
Charting the Course Ahead
The Minister's strong voice at this global forum underscores a clear message: the marine sector is central to Dominica's tourism, economic, and environmental future. By investing in people, technology, and international collaboration, Dominica is steering toward becoming a leader among island nations in sustainable maritime development.
As the island continues to embrace its maritime potential, Creole Heartbeat recognizes that this conference marks another pivotal step in shaping a stronger, more resilient, and globally connected marine sector for Dominica.
