Business View Caribbean June 2023

10 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 10, ISSUE 6 “If NCDs are not the arch-enemy, then I do not know what is. We must execute swift and united responses,” he added. Dominica, like all the other regional and international countries, is facing the challenge of the increasing numbers of NCDs, which include diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and mental disorders. The island was also recently recognized by Global Climate & Health Alliance (GCHA) as one of the countries in the world to have prioritized health in line with its climate commitment. Its government has been rolling out projects to build a robust, equitable, and modern healthcare system, starting with better infrastructure across the island. Twelve health and wellness centers in Ansé De Mai, Bagatelle, Bellevue Chopin, Colihaut, Georgetown, Mahaut, Marigot, Newtown, Penville, Sourfriere, Vieille Case, and Wesley were built to cater for primary health needs. Developed by MMC Development Ltd., each structure was built using a reinforced concrete structure with impact-resistant windows. Likewise, finishings and outfitting follow international standards. “We were mandated to develop health centers that can withstand forces of nature just like our housing projects,” said MMC Development Ltd. CEO Anthony Haiden. These projects are funded by Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, one of the longest programs on second citizenships in the world.