New Marriaqua Civic Centre Opens to Boost Community Services and Disaster Resilience 

By Val Matthias. Updated 10:17 a.m., Thursday, November 20, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has officially opened the new Marriaqua Civic Centre, a multi-purpose facility designed to strengthen community development, expand access to public services, and enhance disaster preparedness in the Mesopotamia Valley.

Located in Hopewell, the two-storey, 9,500 square-foot building will house a district office of the Ministry of National Mobilisation, offering services in youth development, family support, and social resilience. The Centre features classrooms, a computer lab, kitchen and dining areas, a 100 seat auditorium, storage rooms, and rainwater harvesting systems, positioning it as a hub for both civic engagement and emergency response.

Minister of Health and area representative, Prince, Clair “Jimmy” Prince, described the Centre as part of a broader transformation of the Marriaqua constituency, citing recent upgrades to roads, bridges, and recreational spaces. “This facility is a symbol of progress and preparedness,” Prince said, “and it reflects our commitment to building resilient communities.”

Minister of National Mobilisation, Keisal M. Peters, emphasised the Centre’s role in delivering integrated social services. “This is more than a building—it’s a platform for empowerment, especially for our youth and vulnerable families,” Peters stated.

The project was conceptualized following the 2011 floods, which exposed critical gaps in community infrastructure.

Construction began in 2018, funded through a partnership between the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Deputy Programme Manager Mr. Surendra Singh noted that delays due to land stability and procurement challenges were overcome to ensure the Centre’s completion.

The Civic Centre is expected to play a key role in the government’s disaster risk reduction strategy, offering space for coordination and shelter during emergencies, while also serving as a venue for training, education, and community events.

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