Dominica Country Facts

Dominica is a small island country in the Caribbean. It is known for its natural beauty, tropical rainforests, and natural hot springs. The country is known as “The Nature Island of the Caribbean”.

General Information:

Capital:

Roseau.
Location:
Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea.
Bordered by Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south.
Area:
750 square kilometers.
Population:
Approximately 75,000 (2024 data).
Government:
Parliamentary republic.
The president is the head of state and the prime minister is the head of government.
Language:
Official language: English.
Local language: Dominican Creole (French Creole).
Currency:
Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD).
Independence:
Gained independence from Britain on November 3, 1978.

History:

Ancient times:

The island was first inhabited by Carib and Arawak peoples.
The island was named by Christopher Columbus in 1493.
Colonial times:
The island changed hands several times between France and Britain.
It was declared a British colony in 1805.
Independence:
It gained independence in 1978.

Geography and climate:

Natural features:

Dominica is a volcanic island.
The island has 9 active volcanoes.
Highest peak:
Morne Diablotins: 1,447 m.
Climate:
Tropical climate.
Abundant rainfall and warm temperatures throughout the year.
Special features:
Boiling Lake: The second largest warm water reservoir in the world.
Rosso River: It is the island main river.

Economy:

Main Sectors:

Agriculture, especially bananas, is the main sector of Dominica economy.
Tourism is also an important source.
Natural Resources:
Thermal circulation and hydroelectricity.
Challenges:
Cyclone and climate change have a negative impact on the economy.

Culture and Heritage:

Religion:

Primarily Christian (Catholic and Protestant).
Festivals:
Dominica Carnival: A major festival held in February.
World Creole Music Festival: Held in October.
Food:
Local cuisine has a Creole influence.
Popular dishes: Kalalu soup, akki and saltfish, and crab backs.
Language and Music:
Creole language and music are an important part of Dominica cultural life.

Environment and Biodiversity:

Flora and Fauna:

Dominica is home to many rare species of flora and fauna.
Cicero Parrot: An endangered species of parrot, found only in Dominica.
Nature Reserves:
Morne Trois Piton National Park: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tourist Attractions:
Boiling Lake, Emerald Pool, and Champaign Reef (famous for diving).

Challenges and Future:

Natural Disasters:

Hurricanes and floods are major challenges for the country.
Tourism Development:
Efforts are being made to increase sustainable tourism while protecting the environment.

Conclusion:

Dominica is famous for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Although it is a small country, its geographical diversity and efforts to preserve the environment have given it a special place on the world stage.