The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) has officially taken possession of its newly retrofitted and expanded warehouse facility following a handing-over ceremony held in Campden Park on Wednesday January 7, 2026
The facility, located within the South Leeward constituency, was upgraded under the Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project and funded through a loan from the World Bank, administered by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning. The project was executed by Gibson's Construction Limited, with design and supervisory services provided by Stewart Engineering Limited.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Director of NEMO, Michelle Forbes, welcomed stakeholders and highlighted the significance of the facility to national disaster preparedness and response. Project Coordinator Roxanne John outlined that the original contract value of EC$4.1 million was adjusted to EC$4.5 million following approved variations to ensure the project's satisfactory completion. Construction commenced in March 2024 and concluded in late 2025.
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Physical Planning and Area Representative for South Leeward, Hon. Nigel Stephenson, welcomed the development in his constituency, noting its importance not only in major disasters but also for short- term climate variability and other emergency situations that impact small island developing states.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Disaster Management and Immigration, Hon. St. Clair Leacock,underscored the importance of preparedness, centralized storage, and efficient inventory management in strengthening national disaster response. He also acknowledged the contribution of the previous administration, project partners, and international stakeholders in bringing the project to completion.
Chief Executive Officer of Stewart Engineering Limited, Johann Stewart, provided a technical overview of the project, emphasizing the improved operational flow, efficiency, and resilience of the structure to support NEMO's mandate.
The upgraded warehouse now spans approximately 22,490 square feet and includes expanded storage areas, office spaces, staff amenities, male and female washrooms, a kitchen, electrical and generator rooms, enhanced fencing, water storage capacity, and a lift system to facilitate the movement of goods between floors. The facility is also equipped with modern fire alarm and security systems, photovoltaic panels, and an automatic transfer switch to ensure operational continuity during power outages.
This warehouse will serve as NEMO's primary storage facility for emergency supplies, significantly enhancing the organisation’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to disasters across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Coverage provided by the Agency for Public Information
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