The U.S. Embassy to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean has announced the completion of two emergency operations centers in Dominica, funded by the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM). This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and response in the Eastern Caribbean.
Chargé d’Affaires Karin Sullivan, alongside Prime Minister Skerrit and other senior government officials, attended the handover ceremony ahead of the 2025 hurricane season. The facilities include:
- The Office of Disaster Management Emergency Operations Center Annex in Jimmit, a USD $1.7 million facility aimed at improving national disaster response coordination.
- A Satellite Emergency Operations Center and Warehouse in Portsmouth, valued at nearly USD $1 million, designed to aid emergency coordination and secure storage for essential supplies.
An additional $300,000 was donated for furniture, appliances, office equipment for both locations, and a forklift for the warehouse.
During the ceremony, Chargé Sullivan revealed that U.S. Southern Command will also fund a new USD $2.1 million fire and ambulance service station in La Plaine to further support Dominica's emergency response capabilities.
"The United States remains a steadfast partner in advancing regional security, disaster resilience, and the safety and well-being of the Dominican people," stated Chargé Sullivan. The U.S. Embassy anticipates continued collaboration with Dominica's government on these initiatives.