Country Profile: Grenada
Grenada, an island nation located in the Caribbean between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its rich history and diverse culture. With a population of approximately 114,621 people, the country primarily thrives on a service-based economy, heavily reliant on tourism and spice exports, notably nutmeg. Governed as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, Grenada has maintained a stable political landscape since gaining independence from the UK in 1974. The nation faces challenges such as vulnerability to hurricanes and a high public debt, yet it is actively exploring incentives for a blue economy.
Geography
Grenada covers an area of 344 square kilometers, characterized by volcanic terrain and central mountains, with its highest point being Mount Saint Catherine at 840 meters. The island's tropical climate is moderated by northeast trade winds, and it has a coastline of 121 kilometers. Grenada is free from land boundaries but lies close to maritime zones that extend 12 nautical miles for territorial sea claims and 200 nautical miles for its exclusive economic zone.
- 3: The approximate number of parishes and dependencies (6 parishes and 1 dependency).
- 0: The number of land borders since Grenada is an island nation.
- 52.1% (2023): Percentage of forested land.
People and Society
The population of Grenada is estimated at 114,621 (2024), with a slight majority being male. Ethnically, 82.4% of the populace is of African descent, with English as the official language and various religious practices, predominantly Protestant and Roman Catholic. The demographic structure indicates a youthful society, with 21.9% of the population aged 0-14 years and a median age of 35.9 years.
- 76.3 years (2024): Life expectancy at birth.
- 13 births/1,000: The birth rate for 2025 estimates.
- 12.8% (2024): The percentage of the population aged 65 years and over.
Economy
Grenada's economy is primarily service-oriented, focusing on tourism and agriculture, particularly spice production. The Real GDP is estimated to reach $2.08 billion in 2024, reflecting a growth rate of 3.7%. However, the country grapples with a public debt that remains high, alongside its dependency on external markets for goods and services.
- 65.2% (2024): Share of the services sector in the GDP composition.
- 25% (2018): Population living below the national poverty line.
- 5% (2024): GDP contribution from remittances.
Government
Grenada operates as a parliamentary democracy and Commonwealth realm with the King of the UK as the head of state, represented locally by a Governor General. The political framework includes a bicameral Parliament, with legislative elections reinforcing democratic governance since the restoration of order in 1983. The Prime Minister, currently Dickon Mitchell, leads the government.
- 18: Minimum voting age for suffrage.
- 15: Total number of seats in the House of Representatives.
- 31.3%: Percentage of women represented in the House of Representatives (2022).
Military and Security
Grenada does not maintain regular military forces but relies on the Royal Grenada Police Force, which includes a Coast Guard and a Special Services Unit for security and national emergencies. The nation is also a member of the Caribbean Regional Security System, enhancing regional collaboration for security and disaster response.
- 1985: Year Grenada joined the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS).
Energy
Electricity access in Grenada is relatively high, with 94.2% of the population electrified by 2022. The country primarily relies on fossil fuels for electricity generation, contributing to 98.2% of its installed capacity. The total energy consumption per capita stands at 41.703 million Btu as of 2023.
- 60,000 kW (2023): Installed generating capacity.
- 18 million kWh (2023): Electricity transmission and distribution losses.
Environment
Grenada faces several environmental issues, including deforestation, coastal erosion, and inadequate solid waste management. It adheres to multiple international environmental agreements aimed at biodiversity, climate change, and conservation. The tropical climate and lush landscapes are part of the island's identity, though natural hazards such as hurricanes pose significant risks.
- 200 million cubic meters (2022): Total renewable water resources.
- 15.1% (2022): Percentage of municipal solid waste recycled.
Transportation
Grenada has limited civil aviation and maritime transport infrastructure, with only 2 airports and a small merchant marine fleet of 6 vessels. The primary port is located in St. George's, facilitating trade and transportation for the island.
- 1: Total number of ports with oil terminals.
- 2: Number of airports by 2025.
Communications
The communication landscape in Grenada includes a mix of fixed-line and mobile services, with a significant portion of the population estimated to use the internet (74% by 2023). The country has multiple media outlets, including state-owned and private radio and TV stations.
- 17,000 (2022): Total subscriptions for fixed-line telephones.
- 112,000 (2022): Total subscriptions for mobile cellular phones.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 114,621 | Estimate for 2024 |
| Area | 344 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (PPP) | $2.08 billion | Estimated for 2024 |
| Energy consumption | 221.453 million kWh | Estimated for 2023 |
| Birth rate | 13 births/1,000 | Estimate for 2025 |
| Life expectancy | 76.3 years | Estimate for 2024 |
| Unemployment rate | Not specified | Recent figures not available |
| Total fertility rate | 1.89 children/woman | Estimate for 2025 |
| Public debt | High | Ongoing fiscal challenges |
| CO2 emissions | 348,000 metric tonnes | Estimated for 2023 |
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