The Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a country strategy which outlines the Bank’s programme of assistance to Montserrat for the period 2012 to 2015.

In the announcement, the CDB said the strategy reflects carefully considered interventions in critical sectors which offer significant poverty reducing or income generating potential.

Additionally, the strategy will help the Government of Montserrat to deliver a range of outcomes.  These include strengthening human capital; improving livelihoods in at-risk communities; broadening economic opportunities; and safeguarding development gains through improved disaster risk management practices.

The CDB noted that gender will be a cross-cutting theme of the strategy.

In shaping the strategy, the CDB said discussions were held with key officials in Montserrat, as well as principal development partners, in an effort to sharpen focus, avoid duplication and strengthen synergistic relationships.

The Bank says it recognizes the many constraints and risks facing the Government of Montserrat as it seeks to rebuild a vibrant, self-sustaining economy.

The Bank says it intends to work closely with Montserrat to harmonise initiatives, and to ensure that the limited resources are utilized to have the greatest impact on aiding the achievement of the country’s long-term strategic goals.