Director of Programme Delivery at the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) Mrs. Shaina Smith-Archer presented to members of the Rotary Club of Tortola during an informative presentation on the agency’s purpose, progress, priorities, and plans for the territory’s continued sustainable development.
The presentation was held on Thursday, 12 December during a luncheon held at Seven at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park. The event provided an engaging platform for the RDA’s Director to showcase the agency’s achievements and answer questions directly from the members.
During the presentation, Mrs. Smith-Archer highlighted key projects spearheaded by the RDA, including seven projects currently in the planning and procurement phases which include the rebuild of the new West End Ferry Terminal, the Farmer’s Reservoir Design and Construction Management, the Agriculture and Fisheries Complex and the Road Infrastructure Network.
The Director also highlighted eight projects currently in the delivery or implementation phase, including the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre, which is slated for completion in the first half of 2025. Additionally, the Director noted that the RDA has successfully completed 44 projects to date, with the most recent being the Trellis Bay Rest Stop.
The Question-and-Answer session following the presentation saw lively discussion as Rotary members sought updates on how projects are assigned to the Agency, the longevity of the RDA, and its transition to the Virgin Islands Development Agency (VIDA). The RDA was acknowledged for its track record and the progress made in delivering projects largely on time and within budget.
Rotary Club President Ms. Abigail O’Neal expressed gratitude for the presentation, noting its impact on fostering greater transparency and collaboration.
The RDA’s Director extended appreciation to the Rotary Club for providing a platform to connect with stakeholders and welcomes ongoing dialogue with community groups across the territory.
Service organizations, schools, or any interested groups can contact the RDA at info@bvirecovery.vg to schedule a presentation and learn more about the Agency.
The agency also continues to invite service organizations and the wider community to partner with the RDA through fundraising initiatives and donations to support critical infrastructure projects.
Since the RDA’s formation in April 2018, the Agency has continued to be a key development partner of the Government of the Virgin Islands, working to deliver its three-pronged mandate of project implementation, fundraising and capacity building. Infrastructure investments have been made across five distinct sectors and 13 subsectors, guided by the Recovery to Development Plan and aligned with the National Sustainable Development Plan.
At the end of 2023, the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2023, extended the life of the RDA to 31st December 2026.
In September 2024, the Premier announced the transition of the RDA to a permanent body, the Virgin Islands Development Agency. Over the next few years of a renewed mandate, the RDA looks forward to continuing to work in partnership with Central Government in delivering projects, funding, and capacity building towards accomplishment of important development outcomes for the people of the Territory. This will build on the Agency’s goal to build a Stronger, Smarter, Greener and Better Virgin Islands.
