Tortola, British Virgin Islands - The Government of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have officially signed the BVI Initiation Plan, setting the stage for transformative projects across the Territory over the next 18 months.

The plan was formalized by the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, Premier of the British Virgin Islands, and Ms. Limya Eltayeb, Resident Representative of UNDP for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean on Friday, April 26. It solidifies the strategic collaboration between both parties, establishing a concrete framework for the BVI’s shift towards a more diversified, inclusive, and climate-resilient transformation.

The BVI Initiation Plan aims to tackle critical areas such as the Blue Economy, Digital Transformation, Developmental Planning and Climate Action. It emphasizes innovative and community-centered approaches to drive socio-economic growth and environmental sustainability.  

“The collaboration with UNDP is a powerful example of our commitment to creating a resilient BVI. We aim to enhance our capacity to manage our natural and economic resources in a way that secures a prosperous future for all residents," stated Hon. Natalio Wheatley.

Key interventions under the plan include:

• Developing the Blue Economy by maximizing ocean resources sustainably;
• Enhancing digital literacy and digital public services through a comprehensive Digital Economy strategy;
• Implementation of the National Sustainable Development Plan to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national targets; and
• Implementing robust climate response strategies to ensure the BVI’s long-term environmental and economic resilience.

Ms. Limya Eltayeb indicated, "UNDP is committed to assisting the BVI in navigating the complexities of today’s economic and environmental challenges and mobilizing the resources to address them. This partnership is designed to explore innovative, digital and sustainable solutions that lay a resilient foundation for future generations."