Skerrit marks Dominica's 48th independence anniversary with "48 not out" call ahead of 2028 jubilee

ROSEAU, Dominica. Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit marked Dominica's 48th anniversary of independence with a speech at Windsor Park Sports Stadium following the Grand Independence Parade.

Dominica became independent on 3 November 1978. Skerrit said the island could not have become what it is today without the support, unity and hard work of its people, and that it had overcome its challenges as one nation.

"That is the story of Dominica, this is a story of faith, sacrifice, resilience and an unwavering belief that tomorrow can be better than today," he said.

He said the celebrations highlighted the contributions of farmers, fisherfolk, educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs and public servants, whose combined efforts had made Dominica a strong and resilient nation in the region.

Golden jubilee

With the golden jubilee two years away, Skerrit urged people in Dominica and the diaspora to take an active part in the country's development.

Borrowing a cricket phrase, he described the anniversary as "forty-eight not out" and asked citizens to adopt cricket's approach of patience, unity and consistency, saying the country needed composure "to keep the scoreboard moving" rather than a wild swipe made out of impatience.

Skerrit also outlined his administration's plans, which he said centre on strengthening the economy, creating opportunities for younger generations, improving the public service and upgrading infrastructure across the island.

He attended the celebrations with his wife, Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, and President Sylvanie Burton.