The Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce (GCIC) is very pleased with the success of the Network of Caribbean Chambers of Commerce (CARICHAM) meeting held in Grenada which was hosted by the Grenada Chamber.
The meeting was held from 21–23 November 2022 and was supported by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Office of the United Nations Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). The first day was a closed strategic session with representatives from Chambers across the region under the theme; “Regional Private Sector Collaboration for Business Continuity in A Rapidly Evolving Global Business Environment.”
The following sessions saw over 60 colleagues from across the region (both physical and virtual) coming together focusing on the theme; “Integrating Private Sector on Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems Governance and Actions.” CARICHAM was joined by professionals who are involved in disaster management, including meteorologists.
Grenada’s Prime Minister Hon. Dickon Mitchell addressed the Opening Ceremony of the meeting. He called on the private sector to help in transforming the concept of disaster preparedness in the region. He highlighted the use of a Business Continuity Plan as a tool for preparedness by businesses. The Prime Minister also recognised the importance of building synergies with multiple bodies and organisations to successfully address preparedness and efficiency for business continuation after the effects of a disaster. He emphasised the importance of reliable, relevant, and timely information for governments and businesses to make high-level decisions that will aid in the preservation of life, property, and business continuity.
The meeting successfully satisfied the building of strategic initiatives for the CARICHAM Network for the coming 3 years, and strategic working relationships were developed with regional counterparts. Additionally, the Regional Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems review produced draft considerations for the development of a way forward for the region. This will include the integration of the private sector in the preparedness for and response to hazards and potential hazards.
The Executive Director of the Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce and Vice Chair of CARICHAM Petipha Lewis extends gratitude to Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, CARICHAM members, Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Office of the United Nations Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), Climate Risk Early Warning Systems (CREWS), Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA), and all other attendees for their participation in making this event the huge success it was.
GCIC
