Kingstown, St. Vincent – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Foreign Investment, and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Fitzgerald Bramble, has announced the creation of a Diaspora Affairs Department, a move he says is designed to strengthen ties between Vincentians abroad and the nation’s development agenda.
Speaking to media, Bramble revealed that Diaspora Officers will soon be assigned to consulates and embassies overseas. The initiative, he explained, is about more than administrative structure it is about formally integrating the diaspora into the country’s growth strategy.
“We have to leverage our diaspora,” Bramble said. “How do we involve our diaspora? How do we formally integrate our diaspora into the national development thrust? We want to do it in a very structured way.”
The Minister emphasized that creating an enabling environment is critical to success, not only for the new department but also for the relationship between Vincentians at home and abroad. He underscored that the contributions of citizens overseas must be recognized and valued.
“Sometimes it doesn’t appear that way,” Bramble admitted. “But we have to make sure that we show in no uncertain terms that we appreciate the value of our diaspora, their contributions.”
The announcement signals a renewed effort to channel diaspora resources into sustainable growth, while also affirming the government’s commitment to building stronger, more inclusive national development partnerships.