DDM Project World Bank Mission to Bolster Development Initiatives in Saint Lucia

A hybrid mission under the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Data for Decision Making (DDM) Project commenced today in Saint Lucia, bringing together key stakeholders to evaluate and enhance national data systems. For this engagement, the World Bank delegation will collaborate with the OECS and the Government of Saint Lucia, from December 9 to 12, to assess project progress, review performance, and finalise the annual work plan for upcoming initiatives.

World Bank Senior Economist and Mission Team Leader Ms. Ann Luisa Paffhausen stated,

“The OECS Data for Decision Making Project is a cornerstone of our commitment to empowering the countries of the Caribbean with the tools and systems they need to make informed, evidence-based decisions. This mission is not just about evaluating progress but about strengthening our partnerships, refining strategies, and ensuring that the data becomes a transformative force for sustainable development. The World Bank is proud to support these efforts, which will have long-lasting benefits for the people of the OECS.”

Representatives from the Government of Saint Lucia will include senior policymakers and technical officers, who will join experts from the World Bank’s Data and Axics teams to host high-level discussions on staffing, covenants, monitoring frameworks, and the critical role of beneficiary satisfaction surveys.

Deputy Permanent Secretary Barbara Ann Francis-Augustin from the Department of Economic Development in Saint Lucia stated,

“This mission underscores our dedication to using data as a strategic tool for national development. By collaborating with the OECS and the World Bank, we are taking significant steps to strengthen our decision-making processes and align our activities with the needs of our people. This partnership ensures that Saint Lucia continues to build a strong foundation in evidence-based policies and sustainable growth.”

Technical sessions will address the Agricultural Census and the Survey of Living Conditions Household Budget Survey methodology, financial management processes, and updates to procurement strategies. These collaborative activities will address challenges, refine methodologies, and solidify action plans for the upcoming year. ​ The outcomes of this mission will be pivotal in strengthening Saint Lucia’s capacity to use data as a driving force for decision-making, ultimately benefiting its citizens and aligning with sustainable development goals.

The DDM Project was launched in 2022 and will be implemented over a five-year period. The project seeks to produce quality data to inform policy decisions. The Regional Data Governance Council (RDGC), a component of the World Bank-funded project, will play a vital role in ensuring that the OECS and its member states have access to high-quality, timely, and reliable data.