Limya Eltayeb, Resident Representative (RR) for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Multi-Country Office (MCO) recently wrapped up a 3-day visit to the [British] Virgin Islands (VI). Photo: YouTube

According to Government Information Services (GIS), UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean MCO remains committed to working in partnership with the Government of BVI to advance their sustainable development agenda through building resilient communities, empowering people and protecting the most vulnerable. Photo: GIS

She presented her letter of credence to the Premier, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, as she continues to strengthen relationships in the region.

According to a press release from Government Information Services (GIS), this high-level mission also served to discuss with local counterparts what are their challenges, priorities, and identify areas of support and reiterate the UNDPs commitment to the Government and citizens of the VI.

Discussions

The meetings, according to GIS, highlighted the importance of institutional structures, capacity, policy implementation and data collection and analysis.

Discussions also focused on continuing work on developing the Blue and Green economies, growing MSMEs economic contributions, climate change adaptation, digital transformation and enhancing social inclusion policies. The necessity for innovative thinking around financing for development was also explored. 

The visit concluded with areas of mutually agreed support and developing targeted projects and programmes.

Commitment to VI remains

"The UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean MCO remains committed to working in partnership with the Government of BVI to advance their sustainable development agenda through building resilient communities, empowering people and protecting the most vulnerable," GIS stated.

According to the press release, it is vital that efforts continue to reinforce the need for regional resilience, building forward better build and bolstering livelihoods for traditionally vulnerable groups.

With the vision of "Blue Economy for Green Islands", UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, in partnership with governments and stakeholders, remains dedicated to the advancement of inclusive and sustainable development throughout the region, and ensuring no one is left behind, the press release stated.

Limya Eltayeb

According to the UNDP website, Limya’s experience spans 27 years and four continents with work on development and urban planning, local administration, social inclusion, human rights and partnerships. Joining the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Team as Resident Representative in 2022, she previously served UNDP in Albania, Bahrain, Gambia, Partnerships NY and Iraq. She worked in development and humanitarian settings (Sudan, Iraq and Albania earthquake).

She enjoys working on blue economy, green growth, innovation, MSME value chains and protection of the environment.