The Honourable Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reaffirmed her commitment to inclusive and people-centered development through a strategic engagement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held on August 7, 2025.

Joined by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo and Planning Minister Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh, the Prime Minister led discussions with UNDP Resident Representative Ugo Blanco on a series of transformative initiatives designed to accelerate national progress and regional leadership.

At the heart of the dialogue were three key proposals that align with the Government’s development priorities:

1. Social High Impact Fund for Trinidad and Tobago (SHIFTT)
   UNDP proposed the establishment of a Social High Impact Fund aiming to mobilize US$20 million over three years. This fund will channel private sector financing to non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on supporting vulnerable communities. The initiative seeks to catalyze innovation and social entrepreneurship to address pressing development challenges.
2. Regional Launch of the 2025 Human Development Report
   Trinidad and Tobago will host the Latin America and Caribbean regional launch of the 2025 Human Development Report. This event will position the country as a thought leader in regional development discourse, fostering dialogue on human progress, equity, and resilience in the face of global challenges.
3. National Youth Empowerment Platform
   UNDP will support the creation of a national youth forum to train, mentor, and empower young people from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from rural, vulnerable, and agricultural communities. This initiative will be co-led with a designated line ministry and aims to build leadership, civic engagement, and economic opportunity for the next generation.

UNDP Resident Representative Ugo Blanco expressed admiration for the Prime Minister’s strategic vision, stating:

"I was deeply inspired by the Honourable Prime Minister’s bold commitment to inclusive development. Her leadership resonates strongly with UNDP’s values, and we are proud to support Trinidad and Tobago in this journey of transformation, inclusion, and peaceful prosperity."

These initiatives reflect the Government’s proactive approach to fostering investment, engaging youth, creating jobs, and delivering meaningful benefits for all citizens. UNDP remains committed to supporting Trinidad and Tobago as a catalytic partner in achieving its national and regional development goals.