The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is set to transition into a permanent body, now to be known as the Virgin Islands Development Agency (VIDA).
This momentous step marks a pivotal change in the territory’s approach to development, ensuring a long-term, sustainable approach to growth, disaster recovery and infrastructural advancement.
Since its inception, the RDA has played a crucial role in overseeing the recovery of the Virgin Islands after the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Over the past six years, the agency has effectively planned and implemented recovery projects that have helped to rebuild critical infrastructure, strengthen local capacity and promote economic growth and resilience.
Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley at a September 30th press conference on the approval of the $100M loan heralded the transition. “We are advancing discussions on the transition from the Recovery and Development Agency to the Virgin Islands Development Agency”.
The Premier also announced that the Virgin Islands Development Agency, as part of its mandate, will have an Infrastructural Development Plan for the Territory to span up to 20 years.
“This agency, similar to the Recovery and Development Agency, as part of its mandate will have an Infrastructural Development Plan for the next 10 to 20 years to enable a cohesive, coherent approach towards infrastructural development.”
The RDA has been instrumental in delivering rehabilitative and reconstructive recovery projects in partnership with the Government of the Virgin Islands resulting in over $55M invested locally through the completion of 43 project interventions. These investments have helped to better prepare the Territory for future challenges, while driving economic growth and development.
It is envisioned that the Virgin Islands Development Agency will continue to focus on project planning, implementation and capacity building, with an expanded mandate to include broader economic development strategies, as embodied by the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP). This includes facilitating public-private partnerships, promoting sustainable environmental practices, and driving initiatives that foster innovation and entrepreneurship across the Virgin Islands.
The formation of VIDA comes at a time when the Virgin Islands is focused on modernising infrastructure, strengthening resilience to natural disasters, and promoting socio-economic progress. This shift represents a long-term commitment by the Government of the Virgin Islands to ensure sustainable growth that benefits all residents and stakeholders.
The RDA’s Board of Directors will continue to play a key role in guiding the transition process, ensuring a smooth handover and the successful establishment of VIDA.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to transparency, accountability, and collaboration with local and international partners as the agency embarks on this new phase.
About the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA)
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency was established in April 2018 to lead the territory’s recovery efforts following the catastrophic hurricanes of 2017. Since its formation, the RDA has managed key recovery projects across the territory, helping to restore vital infrastructure and build resilience for the future.
About the Virgin Islands Development Agency (VIDA)
The Virgin Islands Development Agency (VIDA) will be an established permanent body that will oversee the long-term development and infrastructure projects of the Virgin Islands. The agency’s mission is to promote sustainable growth, enhance disaster resilience, and drive economic development throughout the territory.
