British Virgin Islands—Support to Recovery

The hurricanes of 2017 devastated the infrastructure of the British Virgin Islands. More than one-third of residential buildings suffered significant damage while crippled maritime facilities hindered economic recovery. To achieve the government’s long-term plan of building back better, stronger, and greener, the local labour force requires new skills and building and labour regulations need revising.

Sample Activities

• Partner with a local community college to develop training materials and provide external trainers for courses on electrical, plumbing, and project management skills.
• Engage with the private and public sector to secure commitments for apprenticeships and employment for trainees.
• Advise on regulations to boost resilience in housing codes and on labour market policies to maximise recovery efforts.

Select Results

• Designed and implemented vocational training programs to help underemployed populations meet the rising demand for skilled labour in the construction and maritime industries.
• Worked with the government of the British Virgin Islands to develop labour policies that met the immediate needs of the recovery process and created long-term employment opportunities.
• Managed the repair of 100 hurricane-damaged homes, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Development and a local construction company, ensuring that construction follows local codes.
• Partnered with the Ministry to develop and implement long-term housing solutions.