The Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA) has expressed growing concern about the overall visitor experience in Dominica, especially in light of promises from authorities that tourism on the island will be safe, accessible, and not overcrowded. While Dominica’s appeal lies in its exceptional natural attractions, including lush landscapes and iconic trails, there are pressing issues that threaten the quality of that experience. The DHTA emphasizes that for tourism to remain sustainable, the visitor experience must be prioritized alongside efforts to increase accessibility and arrivals.
Several of Dominica’s most celebrated natural attractionssuch as Boiling Lake, Middleham Falls, Victoria Falls, and the Waitukubuli National Trail—are reportedly in urgent need of maintenance. Safety hazards and deteriorating infrastructure are not only diminishing the quality of visits but also raising concerns about the island’s ability to meet tourist expectations. Similarly, emerging initiatives like the Sperm Whale Reserve require steady and sustainable funding to support conservation efforts and enforce regulations that protect these natural assets. Equally concerning is the growing issue of litter in public areas, along roadways, and at nature sites, which undermines Dominica’s branding as the “Nature Island.” Tackling this problem demands a collaborative approach between government bodies, private enterprises, and communities—focusing not only on infrastructure and enforcement but also on education and local engagement. Furthermore, while many travelers value Dominica’s serene, uncrowded environment, cruise tourism can at times overwhelm natural sites. A balanced strategy is needed, including the development of alternative attractions tailored to cruise visitors, to preserve the island’s unique appeal and ensure long-term tourism sustainability.
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The Dominica Solid Waste Corporation is seeking to allay the concerns of Dominicans and the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association, which have voiced concerns of inconsistent collection of Garbage across the island.In recent months the DSWMC Management has come under scrutiny for a lack of their sanitary trucks providing collection service around the country. Public Relations Officer of the DSWMC, Rhoda St. John says, the management of the corporation has engaged public and private entities for support, which has resulted in increased funding to maintain the Garbage trucks used by the corporation. Public Relations Officer of the DSWMC, Rhoda St. John
The Dominica Association of Industry & Commerce (DAIC) has rolled out a streamlined version of its 2025 Q1 Quarterly Business Performance Survey, aimed at gathering vital data on the health and performance of businesses across Dominica’s private sector.Ashma McDougall, Executive Director of the DAIC, underscored the importance of the initiative: “The Quarterly Business Performance Survey is a crucial tool for gathering accurate data that reflects the true state of Dominica’s private sector. By collecting key metrics on business performance, we ensure our market statistics are grounded in real insights.”
McDougall emphasized that the survey isn’t just about data collection. “We’re also committed to publishing the results. This provides new and emerging businesses with valuable forecasts and performance benchmarks by industry, helping them make more strategic decisions. Ultimately, it’s about fostering more resilient and sustainable businesses throughout the country.”The QBPS will delve into several core aspects of business operations, including: Labour Participation: Number of full-time and part-time employees, along with age and gender demographics. Business Operations: Reports on electrical outages experienced in Q1. Financial Performance: Analysis of sales and cash flow trends. Economic Outlook: Business perspectives on inflationary pressures and economic expectations. The survey, which launched on April 8, 2025will remain open until May 9, 2025. It is being conducted online, with the DAIC also leading a national outreach campaign to encourage broad participation. Former Journalist and President of the United Workers Party, Lennox Linton, has announced that MSR Media has obtained bank records of MMCE Ltd and its transactions to Dominica officials and for what. It has been confirmed that the damning financial report from the Bank Of America, exposes the facts of how the CBI proceeds have been used by one of Dominica’s largest CBI Agency partners. The UWP President calls on MSR Media to release the factual documents, as it will be used as evidence by international and local authorities to arrest, detain or exonerate powerful business persons or politicians. Linton expects that the concerns brought up by himself and other economic experts about the misuse of funds from the CBI program will be confirmed by the data revealed in the bank’s financial report. Former Journalist and President of the United Workers Party, Lennox Linton
Veterinarian and Lecturer Dr. Rick Stobaeus has raised concerns about the spread of leptospirosis, a disease transmitted through rat urine, especially in areas with garbage. He emphasized the importance of washing fruits before eating to reduce the risk of infection. As summer nears, Dr. Stobaeus urges the public to avoid eating fruit that has fallen to the ground, warning it may be contaminated by dog urine. He emphasizes the importance of vaccinating dogs to help prevent diseases from spreading to humans. Veterinarian and Lecturer, Dr Rick Stobaeus
The Annual Regional Compliance Summit (ARCS) 2025 opened today, April 24, at the State House Conference Centre in Roseau, Dominica. The event gathers top regional and international experts in finance, regulation, and governance. Arthlyn Nesty, President of the Dominica Co-operative Societies League Ltd., highlighted the summit's focus on strengthening skills and promoting sound governance, and inclusive financial systems. Arthlyn Nesty, President of the Dominica Co-operative Societies League Ltd. (DCSLL) Phoenix Belfield, Chair of the Conference, highlighted the broad mix of attendees this year. The event welcomes a variety of participants, including regulators, banks, and credit unions, making it one of the most inclusive gatherings yet. Phoenix Belfield, Conference Chair Claudius Lestrade, Director of the Financial Services Unit, emphasized the importance of the ARCS summit, saying it offers a key platform for regulators and industry leaders to work together on promoting transparency, integrity, and innovation in the financial sector. Director of the Financial Services Unit, Claudius Lestrade
Financial Crime Expert Kenneth Rijock alleges that top officials received funds misappropriated from Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. He claims this not only implicates them in domestic crimes but also in money laundering offenses under US law. Meantime, after eight years allegedly on the run, businessman Mehul Choksi may finally be brought back to India to face charges. Rijock revealed that Choksi, who allegedly used a CBI passport to avoid Indian authorities, failed in an attempt to flee to Cuba. Rijock added that Choksi’s extradition to India is imminent, where he will face what he called "blind justice." Financial Crime Consultant, Kenneth Rijock
Photo: Indian River Local Priest and Environmental Advocate, Fr. Franklyn Cuffy, has announced that the Indian River will be the focus for this year's observance of ‘World Rivers Day’ in September of 2025. Fr. Cuffy told Q95 News on Wednesday that in keeping with Pope Francis’ advocacy for the preservation of Waterways, the Catholic Community held a major easter egg hunt and presentation on the Pope’s Easter message on April 20, 2025. Local Priest and Environmental Advocate, Fr. Franklyn Cuffy
Photo: Emerald Pool
Since the dual setbacks of Hurricane Maria and the COVID-19 pandemic, Dominica’s tourism industry has been on a path of steady recovery. The hotel sector continues to grow, and the informal lodging market—particularly Airbnb—has shown significant vitality. Improved air connectivity, especially with direct flights from the U.S. and expanded regional routes, has made the island more accessible. This progress stems largely from continued investment in the Douglas-Charles Airport, formerly Melville Hall, which has undergone substantial upgrades over the years, including a new terminal, night landing capability, and a runway extension completed in 2024. However, while infrastructure has advanced and the tourism offering continues to evolve, overall visitor arrivals have seen only modest gains. In 2024, arrivals were just 5.1% higher than 20 years ago and still 6.3% below pre-pandemic levels, despite being 12.5% above 2023 figures. This modest growth signals the need for a more coordinated, well-funded push in destination marketing, especially as the Caribbean becomes increasingly competitive. With tourism poised to be a major driver of sustainable economic growth, stakeholders must work together to overcome persistent challenges and secure the resources needed to position Dominica as a top-tier travel destination. This Saturday, April 26 at 4 p.m., Jolly’s Pharmacy will host its major 5K run for cancer awareness. The event starts on the EO Leblanc Highway and ends at Lindo Park. Public Relations Officer Carlton Languedoc says the run symbolizes solidarity with cancer patients and urges the public to join and show support. Jolly’s Pharmacy, Public Relations Officer, Carlton Languedoc
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