Rebuilding Barbuda: The Return And Revival Of A Community

In September 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated the island of Barbuda, destroying over 90% of its buildings and infrastructure and leaving the island barely habitable. As a result, the entire population of around 1,600-1,800 people was evacuated to the neighbouring island of Antigua. By February 2019, most residents had returned to Barbuda, but the rebuilding process is estimated to cost over $100 million. Despite the devastation, Barbuda remains a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. The island is part of the twin-island state of Antigua and Barbuda and has a population of approximately 1,500 people, mostly living in the village of Codrington.

The impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017

Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 hurricane, wreaked havoc on the island of Barbuda in September 2017. The storm brought winds of up to 295 km/h (185 mph), causing widespread destruction and leaving the island barely habitable. The impact of Hurricane Irma on Barbuda was profound and far-reaching, with the storm causing significant loss of life, extensive damage to infrastructure, and triggering a mass evacuation of the island's residents.

One of the most devastating effects of Hurricane Irma was the loss of life it caused. Three people lost their lives due to the storm, leaving their loved ones and the community grieving.

In addition to the tragic loss of life, Hurricane Irma also left a trail of destruction in its wake. The hurricane destroyed or significantly damaged 95% of the buildings and infrastructure on the island. This included homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and utilities. The destruction was so severe that Prime Minister Gaston Browne described the damage as "complete", stating that the island would require extensive and costly reconstruction.

The storm's impact also extended beyond the physical damage to infrastructure. The hurricane caused widespread flooding, leaving many areas inundated and contributing to the overall devastation. The flooding, coupled with the strong winds, resulted in the displacement of the entire population of Barbuda. The island's residents were evacuated to the neighbouring island of Antigua, with those who remained lashing themselves to the roofs of their properties as the storm raged on. This mass evacuation highlighted the urgency of the situation, as the usually bustling island was left deserted.

The aftermath of Hurricane Irma presented significant challenges for the government and people of Barbuda. With most of the island's infrastructure in ruins, the government faced a daunting task of rebuilding, which was estimated to cost upwards of $100 million. Philmore Mullin, Director of Barbuda's National Office of Disaster Services, described the situation as dire, with all critical infrastructure and utilities non-existent and a long road to recovery ahead.

The impact of Hurricane Irma on Barbuda was not just limited to the immediate aftermath. The storm also had long-term effects on the island's environment and economy. The once pristine beaches and clear waters, which were a major draw for tourists, were left strewn with debris and damaged by flooding. This not only affected the island's natural beauty but also posed risks to the fragile ecosystem. Additionally, the tourism industry, which was a significant contributor to Barbuda's economy, took a significant hit, with many resorts and attractions damaged or destroyed.

In conclusion, Hurricane Irma's impact on Barbuda in 2017 was catastrophic and far-reaching. The storm caused loss of life, extensive damage to infrastructure, displacement of residents, and had long-term effects on the environment and economy. The road to recovery was challenging and costly, and the resilient people of Barbuda worked tirelessly to rebuild their beloved island.

The rebuilding process

Hurricane Irma hit Barbuda in September 2017, causing devastation to the island's landscape and infrastructure. The hurricane destroyed more than 90% of the island's buildings, and the entire population of nearly 2,000 people was evacuated to the neighbouring island of Antigua.

By February 2019, most residents had returned to the island, and the Barbudan government has been working to rebuild and recover. However, the process has been challenging, with government workers often not being paid or receiving payment long after completing their work.

The focus of the rebuilding process has been on the tourism industry, with the development of resorts and a new airport to attract high-end tourists. This has caused tension between the Barbudan governing council and the central government in Antigua, which has jurisdiction over Barbudan governance.

The Barbudan council has expressed concerns about the environmental and cultural impact of these new developments, particularly the destruction of wetlands, animal habitats, and cultural heritage sites. There has also been a push to dismantle the Barbuda Land Act, which enshrines the right of Barbudans to communal land ownership, in favour of privatisation and development.

Despite these challenges, Barbudans have been working to rebuild their homes and infrastructure, with support from the diaspora and humanitarian organisations. The recovery process has been slow, and as of 2024, the island still does not have a fully functioning hospital or bank.

The island's economy

The economy of Barbuda is largely based on tourism and fishing, with the central and local governments being the largest employers on the island.

Tourism is a major source of income for Barbuda, with the island's pristine beaches, clear waters, and natural beauty attracting visitors from all over the world. The island's unique wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the Antigua racer, also contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination. In addition, the island's historical sites, such as the Indian Cave with its petroglyphs, and the Dividing Wall that once separated the wealthy from their slaves, offer visitors a glimpse into the past.

Fishing is another important economic activity, with lobster being the main export. Barbudans also frequently fish for larger species such as kingfish, dolphin fish, tuna, and barracuda, which are sold to hotels during the season. The island's low-impact fishing techniques ensure sustainable practices that have been developed over generations.

While agriculture is not a major contributor to the economy, local produce is sometimes sold in the Barbuda Council agriculture building, and local fruit and vegetables are also available on the street.

The island has a small population of around 1,634 people and is one of the most sparsely populated islands in the Caribbean. The population density is significantly lower than that of Antigua, its sister island.

In recent years, the island has faced challenges due to the impact of hurricanes, particularly Hurricane Irma in 2017, which destroyed most of the island's buildings and infrastructure. The rebuilding efforts have been costly and slow, with the local government struggling to fund the necessary reconstruction. Despite these challenges, Barbuda remains a strong and independent community, welcoming visitors to experience its unique culture and natural wonders.

The island's tourism industry

The islands of Antigua and Barbuda are known for their welcoming people, pink and white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic climate. Barbuda, in particular, is a haven for nature lovers, offering a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist attractions. With its pristine beaches, clear waters, and abundant wildlife, Barbuda has long been a popular destination for travellers seeking a unique Caribbean experience.

The island offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious beachfront rooms and resorts to great-value, friendly village guest houses. Visitors can explore the large lagoon, salt ponds, and the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. They can also enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkelling, fishing, and caving. The island's historical sites, such as the Indian Cave with its ancient petroglyphs, and the ruins of the 18th-century Codrington family home, also attract history and culture enthusiasts.

However, the impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017 devastated the island, causing significant damage to infrastructure and leaving it temporarily uninhabitable. The storm destroyed or significantly damaged over 90% of the island's buildings, and the entire population had to be evacuated to the neighbouring island of Antigua. The recovery and rebuilding process has been slow and challenging, with costs estimated at around $200 million. Despite these challenges, the island has been working to rebuild and revitalise its tourism industry, welcoming an increasing number of visitors eager to experience the beauty and charm of Barbuda.

Overall, Barbuda's tourism industry is an important aspect of the island's economy and cultural exchange, offering visitors a unique and authentic Caribbean experience while providing local communities with a vital source of income and employment.

The island's population

The island of Barbuda is part of a three-island state with Antigua and uninhabited Redonda in the north-eastern Caribbean. It is one of the most sparsely populated islands in the Caribbean, with a population of around 1,500-1,634 people and an area of 62 square miles (160 km2). The population density is significantly lower than that of Antigua.

The only settlement on the island is Codrington, which has an estimated population of 1,300 people as of 2011. The population of Barbudans live in this village, although in recent years, there has been an influx of construction workers, increasing the overall population of the island.

In September 2017, Hurricane Irma destroyed more than 90% of the island's buildings, and the entire population was evacuated to neighbouring Antigua. The storm left the island barely habitable, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne estimating that rebuilding efforts would cost at least $100 million. By February 2019, most residents had returned to the island.

The population of Barbuda is predominantly of African descent (95.11%), with smaller percentages identifying as Mixed Black/White (2.88%), other Mixed (1.00%), Hispanic (0.44%), White (0.13%), Indian (0.13%), Syrian/Lebanese (0.13%), and other (0.13%). The island has a high proportion of residents born in Antigua and Barbuda (89.28%), and the majority of people across all ethnicities identify as African descendants.

The Barbudan population is spread across different age groups, with 33.92% aged 0-17, and the largest segment of the population, 50.95%, aged 18-59. The island has a low urban population, with only about 25% living in urban areas, which is much lower than the international average of 55%.

Frequently asked questions