The World Bank has approved $63 million in financing to support recovery efforts in St. Vincent and the Grenadines after Hurricane Beryl caused widespread destruction in July 2024. The funding, provided by the International Development Association, aims to aid communities affected by the hurricane, which was the most powerful storm to hit the region since 1875.
Hurricane Beryl, a category 4 storm, severely impacted the Southern Grenadines, destroying over 90% of buildings and infrastructure. Vital sectors such as tourism and fishing were also affected. Although mainland St. Vincent and the Northern Grenadines experienced less damage, more than half of their population suffered significant losses.
In response, a recovery project was launched by the World Bank and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The initiative focuses on providing immediate income support to affected communities, restoring economic activity, and rebuilding critical infrastructure with enhanced resilience against future climate risks.
Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean, stated: “While disasters affect everyone, they often hit vulnerable communities the hardest, leading to increased poverty and inequality.” She emphasized that targeted short-term income support and assistance for small businesses are crucial for helping those most impacted.
The project prioritizes temporary income grants for households severely affected by Hurricane Beryl. It targets vulnerable groups such as women-headed households and those with elderly or disabled members. Small businesses will receive grants and support services to aid their recovery. A Labor-Intensive Temporary Employment program will offer cash-for-work initiatives to restore community infrastructure while providing jobs for unemployed individuals.
The Beryl Emergency Resilient Recovery Project aims at resilient reconstruction of damaged infrastructure like water systems, public buildings, roads, and bridges to withstand future natural hazards.
The project is expected to benefit approximately 18% of the islands’ population directly. Among these beneficiaries are around 49% women, 9% elderly individuals, and about 43% under age 24. Additionally, all residents will indirectly benefit from improved government capacity for rebuilding infrastructure and enhancing public resilience.
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