Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Water Security: Reflections on CWWA 2026 and the Grenada Declaration

Hon Spencer R Brand
It was indeed a great pleasure and honour to represent the Nevis Island Administration at the 35th Annual Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Conference and Exhibition and the 22nd High-Level Forum (HLF), held in Grenada from 12 to 16 October 2026.

This important regional gathering provided an excellent opportunity to engage with fellow ministers, policymakers, water professionals, development partners, and international organisations on critical issues surrounding water security, climate resilience, sustainable water management, and infrastructure development throughout the Caribbean.

One of the significant highlights of the conference was the signing of the Grenada Declaration by the Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada; myself; and ministers responsible for water from across the Caribbean who were in attendance.

This important declaration represents a collective commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, advancing sustainable water management, addressing the growing challenges of climate change, and ensuring greater water security for the people of our Caribbean region.

I was particularly pleased to be part of this significant occasion, which reinforced the importance of regional solidarity, shared responsibility, and decisive action in safeguarding one of our most precious resources.

As Minister responsible for Water Services in Nevis, I also welcomed the opportunity to participate in meaningful discussions, exchange experiences, and explore opportunities for technical cooperation, investment, and strategic partnerships that can further strengthen our water sector.

For us in Nevis, water security is not simply an infrastructure priority; it is a fundamental responsibility to our people, our economy, and future generations.

I extend my sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Grenada, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, the organisers of CWWA, and all our regional and international partners for their warm hospitality and productive engagements.

I returned from this conference even more convinced that the challenges we face as small island developing states are best addressed through collaboration, shared knowledge, strong partnerships, and decisive leadership.

Together, we must continue building a future in which every citizen has access to a safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply.