BTN News: In a significant move toward bolstering disaster preparedness, three Caribbean nations—Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic—have launched a collaborative project aimed at enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure. Spearheaded by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and funded by the Infrastructure Resilience Accelerator Fund (IRAF), the initiative seeks to safeguard essential sectors such as education and water supply, which are vital for the well-being of these countries’ populations. As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, this project stands as a pivotal step toward strengthening regional capacity to respond effectively.
Joint Effort to Build Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
The project, titled “Strengthening Capacities, Security, and Resilience of Critical Infrastructure in the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Haiti,” marks a coordinated effort to address vulnerabilities in vital infrastructure sectors. Funded under the IRAF’s “Infrastructure for Resilient Island States” (IRIS) window, the initiative is backed by the governments of India, the UK, Australia, and the European Union. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plays a key role in this partnership, working alongside national civil defense organizations to deliver practical, measurable improvements in disaster preparedness.
Capacity Building for Long-Term Resilience
Resilient Education and Water Supply Systems
One of the primary goals of the project is to fortify education and water supply systems, which are critical for both daily life and emergency response. By enhancing the technical and methodological capacities of local institutions, the initiative aims to provide the tools and knowledge necessary for assessing and improving the safety of these infrastructures. This includes creating comprehensive intervention plans for identified vulnerabilities.
Training and Expertise Development
A standout feature of the initiative is its focus on training local professionals. By the end of the project, 45 experts across Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic will be certified in the use of standardized methodologies for evaluating infrastructure resilience. These professionals are expected to not only apply their skills within their home countries but also serve as a regional resource, ready to mobilize and share knowledge wherever needed in the Caribbean.
Cross-Sector Collaboration and Regional Cooperation
South-South Cooperation as a Core Element
A key aspect of this initiative is its commitment to South-South cooperation, a framework for collaboration among developing countries to share knowledge, skills, and resources. This project is no exception, as it prioritizes the exchange of best practices among the three nations. The goal is to strengthen regional coordination in areas like early warning systems and disaster response, ensuring that the countries are better prepared for future climate-related emergencies.
Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
The project has garnered support from numerous stakeholders, including national emergency commissions, civil defense bodies, and international partners. Amit Prothi, Director General of CDRI, highlighted the organization’s dedication to building resilient infrastructures, particularly in water and education sectors, which are crucial for maintaining stability in times of crisis. Similarly, Ana MarÃa DÃaz, the UNDP’s Resident Representative in the Dominican Republic, emphasized the critical nature of this work, expressing gratitude to the contributing governments for their support.
Targeting Vulnerabilities and Enhancing Preparedness
Climate Change Threats in the Caribbean
With the Caribbean region facing increasing threats from climate change, particularly in the form of more intense hurricanes and storms, there is an urgent need to upgrade disaster resilience. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the frequency of extreme weather events in the Caribbean is expected to rise in the coming years, making proactive infrastructure fortification all the more essential. This project’s targeted intervention in education and water supply infrastructure directly addresses these vulnerabilities, providing both immediate protection and long-term resilience.
Evaluating and Improving Key Facilities
As part of the initiative, 21 educational institutions and 12 water supply facilities across the three countries will undergo thorough evaluations. These assessments will lead to intervention plans designed to enhance functionality and resilience, with improvements already planned for 24 key infrastructures. By focusing on these critical sectors, the project ensures that both students and communities have access to safe, secure facilities, even during and after disaster events.
A Future of Resilient Infrastructure in the Caribbean
Lasting Impact and Broader Regional Benefits
At the core of this initiative is the creation of a lasting impact not just for the three participating nations but for the entire Caribbean region. The trained professionals and upgraded infrastructure will serve as models for other countries facing similar vulnerabilities. By fostering a culture of resilience and collaboration, the project lays the groundwork for continued improvement in disaster preparedness throughout the region.
Commitment to Ongoing Cooperation
This initiative also strengthens ties between international organizations and regional governments, with continued cooperation expected beyond the project’s lifespan. The UNDP has reiterated its commitment to supporting the governments of Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic in their efforts to manage crises and adapt to the evolving challenges posed by climate change.
Conclusion: A Resilient Path Forward for the Caribbean
In a region as vulnerable as the Caribbean, where the impacts of climate change are increasingly felt, building resilient infrastructure is not just a necessity—it’s a matter of survival. The collaborative efforts of Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, backed by international partners, set an important precedent for other nations facing similar threats. By focusing on education and water supply infrastructure, and fostering regional cooperation, this initiative offers a blueprint for how nations can work together to face an uncertain future with confidence and preparedness.
