Country Profile: Dominica

Dominica is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, characterized by its lush mountains and volcanic terrain. With a population of approximately 74,661 people as of 2024, the country has a vibrant culture heavily influenced by its African heritage and indigenous roots. The economy primarily relies on agriculture, particularly banana exports, while emerging sectors like ecotourism are gaining traction. Governed as a parliamentary republic, Dominica has a strong commitment to environmental conservation, earning it the nickname "The Nature Island of the Caribbean."

Geography

Dominica is situated between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago. The island covers an area of 751 sq km, with a rugged terrain dominated by volcanic mountains, including Morne Diablotins, its highest point at 1,447 m. Rich in natural resources, it is known for its dense forests and arable land, though it faces natural hazards like flash floods and hurricanes.

751 sq km: Total area of the country.
148 km: Total coastline length.
12 nm: Territorial sea in maritime claims.

People and Society

The population of Dominica is approximately 74,661, of which about 84.5% are of African descent. The country has a rich linguistic landscape with English as the official language and French patois widely spoken. The predominant religion is Roman Catholicism, followed by various Protestant denominations. Urbanization is evident as about 72% of the population resides in urban areas, particularly in and around the capital, Roseau.

20.7%: Population aged 0-14 years.
65.6%: Population aged 15-64 years.
78.7 years: Life expectancy at birth (2024 est.).

Economy

Dominica's economy is largely agrarian, relying heavily on agriculture with bananas as a key export. The country is also part of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) and is exploring growth in sectors like ecotourism and information technology. In 2024, the real GDP (PPP) was estimated at $1.241 billion, indicating a modest growth trajectory. However, the nation faces challenges like a current account deficit and reliance on external assistance.

$1.241 billion: Real GDP (PPP) for 2024.
2.1%: Projected real GDP growth rate for 2024.
$18,700: Real GDP per capita (2024 est.).

Government

Dominica is a parliamentary republic with a legal system based on English common law. The capital, Roseau, is home to the government’s executive branch, led by President Sylvanie Burton and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. The country has a unicameral House of Assembly comprising 32 seats, elected every five years. Dominica gained independence from the United Kingdom on November 3, 1978, which is also celebrated as its national holiday.

32: Total seats in the House of Assembly.
18: Age of suffrage for citizens.
November 3, 1978: Date of independence from the UK.

Military and Security

Dominica has no regular military forces and relies on the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) for security. The country is a member of the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS), which facilitates cooperation among member states in addressing national emergencies and security matters.

1982: Year Dominica joined the Caribbean Regional Security System.
No regular military forces.

Energy

The country boasts 100% electricity access as of 2022, with the majority of its energy generated from fossil fuels, hydroelectricity, and a minor contribution from solar and wind sources. In 2023, the installed electricity generating capacity was approximately 41,000 kW, and energy consumption per capita stood at 36.395 million Btu.

145.827 million kWh: Electricity consumption in 2023.
41,000 kW: Installed generating capacity in 2023.
84.3%: Share of energy generation from fossil fuels.

Environment

Dominica is known for its rich biodiversity and extensive natural park system but faces environmental challenges such as pollution from agrochemicals and untreated sewage. The island is a party to various international environmental agreements, highlighting its commitment to sustainable practices.

76.6%: Forest area as a percentage of land use (2023 est.).
200 million cubic meters: Total renewable water resources (2022 est.).
13,200 tons: Municipal solid waste generated annually (2024 est.).

Transportation

Dominica has two airports and a small merchant marine fleet that includes 77 vessels. The major ports are located in Portsmouth and Roseau, facilitating trade and transportation.

2: Airports projected by 2025.
77: Total vessels in the merchant marine (2023).

Communications

The communications infrastructure includes a mix of fixed and mobile telephone services, with approximately 84% of the population using the internet. Broadcasting mainly relies on subscription cable TV and a mix of state and private radio stations.

57,000: Total mobile cellular subscriptions in 2022.
14,000: Fixed broadband subscriptions in 2022.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	74,661	2024 est.
Area	751 sq km	Total area of the country
Real GDP (PPP)	$1.241 billion	2024 est.
Real GDP per capita	$18,700	2024 est.
Life expectancy at birth	78.7 years	2024 est.
Urban population	72%	Percentage of the total population (2023)
Electricity access	100%	As of 2022