Kalinago Chief Anette Sanford and Councilor Miranda are currently in St. Kitts, continuing discussions aimed at creating new opportunities for the Kalinago people beyond Dominica's shores. The visit, confirmed in a statement from the Kalinago Council, centres on the establishment of a Kalinago craft centre in the twin-island federation, a project that would allow Kalinago artisans to showcase and sell their work to a wider Caribbean audience.
The statement from the council indicates that the trip is part of an ongoing effort to expand the economic and cultural footprint of the Kalinago Territory. While details of the agreement remain under discussion, the craft centre is expected to serve as a hub for traditional Kalinago crafts, including basket weaving, pottery, and other heritage items that have long been central to the community's identity and livelihood. The initiative reflects a broader push by the council to secure sustainable income streams for Kalinago families, many of whom rely on craft production and tourism-related activity.
This is not the first time the Kalinago Council has looked beyond Dominica to foster economic development. In recent years, the council has pursued partnerships with regional governments and organisations to promote Kalinago culture and create markets for local artisans. The St. Kitts visit builds on those efforts, with the craft centre envisioned as a permanent outlet that could attract both residents and visitors to the federation. The choice of St. Kitts is significant, as the country has a growing tourism sector and a demonstrated interest in supporting indigenous and cultural enterprises.
The Kalinago Territory, located on the northeastern coast of Dominica, is home to the island's indigenous Kalinago people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. The community has faced longstanding challenges related to employment and economic opportunity, and the council has made it a priority to address these issues through both local and regional initiatives. The craft centre project is seen as one way to preserve and promote Kalinago heritage while also providing tangible economic benefits to the community.
Chief Sanford, who has been a vocal advocate for Kalinago rights and development, has previously spoken about the importance of creating opportunities for young people in the territory. The St. Kitts visit is part of that broader vision, with the council exploring ways to connect Kalinago artisans with markets across the Caribbean. The statement did not specify a timeline for the completion of the craft centre, but it described the conversations as productive and ongoing.
The Kalinago Council is expected to provide further updates as the discussions progress. For now, the visit marks another step in the community's efforts to build economic resilience and share its cultural heritage with the wider region.
