THE Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG), the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, has bid an emotional farewell to Caribbean leaders, describing the region as “a powerhouse within the Commonwealth” during the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Addressing Prime Ministers and regional stakeholders, Secretary-General Scotland praised CARICOM’s unwavering unity, leadership, and contributions to global challenges, particularly in climate resilience and sustainable development.

She also expressed gratitude for the Caribbean’s support and solidarity with the Commonwealth throughout her tenure.

Born in Dominica, Secretary-General Scotland, who steps down in March, has been a strong advocate for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) since assuming office in 2016.

She highlighted key achievements, including the expansion of the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub (CCFAH), which has helped member states unlock nearly US$400 million for renewable energy investments, environmental protection, and climate adaptation.

The initiative, originally proposed by an Eminent Persons Group led by former Guyanese President and current Vice-President, the Hon. Bharrat Jagdeo, has played a crucial role in providing financial access to vulnerable nations.

Reflecting on her nine-year tenure, Scotland described championing the Caribbean’s interests on the global stage as the “greatest privilege” of her career. She also highlighted the Commonwealth Meridian, a digital system that strengthens public debt management by enhancing transparency, accountability, and decision-making for member states.

To further improve governance, the Secretary-General urged Caribbean leaders to leverage the SMART (Strategic Management and Accountability Results Toolkit), a Commonwealth-designed software aimed at optimising public sector efficiency and performance.

“The welfare of all citizens, particularly in small island states, depends on strong and effective governance,” she said. “In a post-pandemic world, SMART is a vital tool for government performance management.”

Scotland also reiterated the Commonwealth’s critical support to the Caribbean during crises, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, and her advocacy for a Loss & Damage Fund to assist vulnerable nations. She further backed the Bridgetown Initiative, championed by Barbados’ Prime Minister, the Hon. Mia Mottley, and the UN’s Multilateral Vulnerability Index, which seeks to address debt sustainability and climate-related challenges.

Additionally, the Commonwealth Secretariat has spearheaded youth empowerment initiatives, including digital literacy programmes, the Commonwealth AI Consortium, and the Commonwealth AI Academy, with ongoing collaborations with The University of the West Indies.

Looking ahead, the long-standing CARICOM-Commonwealth partnership is set to continue, with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) returning to the Caribbean in 2026, hosted by Antigua and Barbuda.

As she prepares to step down, Scotland leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, innovation, and strengthened ties between the Commonwealth and the Caribbean, ensuring that the region remains a formidable voice in global governance.