The Network of Caribbean Chambers of Commerce (CARICHAM) have positioned themselves to better prepare and respond to hazards in the region following what they describe as a successful meeting in Grenada last week.

A release issued following the November 21-23 meeting said the chambers successfully satisfied the building of strategic initiatives for the CARICHAM Network for the coming three years, and strategic working relationships were developed with regional counterparts.

It said additionally, the Regional Multi Hazard Early Warning Systems review, produced draft considerations for development of a way forward for the region. This will include the integration of the private sector in the preparedness for and response to hazards and potential hazards.

The three day face-toface meeting in Grenada was hosted by the Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce with support from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction.

The first day, was a closed strategic session with representatives from Chambers across the region under the theme “Regional Private Sector Collaboration for Business Continuity in A Rapidly Evolving Global Business Environment”.

The following sessions saw over 60 colleagues from across the region (both physical and virtual) coming together focusing on the theme; “Integrating Private Sector on Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems Governance and Actions.”

CARICHAM was joined by professionals who are involved in disaster management, including meteorologists.

Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell delivered an address at the opening ceremony during which

he called on the private sector to help in transforming the concept of disaster preparedness in the region. He highlighted the use of a Business Continuity Plan as a tool for preparedness by businesses.

The Prime Minister also recognized the importance of building synergies with multiple bodies and organizations to successfully address preparedness and efficiency for business continuity after the effects of a disaster. He emphasized the importance of reliable, relevant, and timely information for governments and businesses to make high level decisions that will aid in the preservation of life, property, and business continuity.

The CARICHAM executive had extended gratitude to Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, CARICHAM members, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), Climate Risk Early Warning Systems (CREWS), and all other attendees for their participation.