The Government of Saint Lucia is advancing efforts to modernise land administration with the development of an e-Land Registry System. This digital transformation, spearheaded by the Department of Public Service through the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP), in collaboration with the Department of Physical Development, aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in land transactions.
Access to land is a fundamental pillar of national development, influencing homeownership, business investments, and economic growth. Efficient land administration minimizes disputes, fosters investment, and ensures greater transparency in property transactions. Recognising these benefits, a stakeholder consultation was held on February 7, 2025, to discuss the consultancy services required for the system’s development and implementation.
Sheralyn Monrose-Gustave, Project Manager for CARDTP, emphasised that the e-Land Registry aligns with CARDTP’s objectives of increasing access to digital services, technologies, and skills for government agencies, businesses, and individuals.
“The e-Land Registry information system is part of two key activities under CARDTP, valued at approximately US$1.9 million. The activity is expected to last about 19 months, during which the consultants will develop the technical requirements for implementation while also providing support for contract management, change management, and capacity building for both the public and staff of the Department of Physical Development,” Monrose-Gustave explained.
Registrar of Lands, Savita Chandler, highlighted that a major benefit of the e-Land Registry will be the ability to access land registry services remotely, improving overall productivity and efficiency within the Department of Physical Development.
“The Land Registry is central to almost every property transaction, whether it’s obtaining electricity, water, or securing a mortgage. The ability to digitally access land records will significantly streamline processes and enhance service delivery,” Chandler stated.
The consultation brought together key stakeholders, including lead consultant RMSI Private Limited from India, sub-consultant Datashore from Saint Lucia, the CARDTP Project Manager, and officials from the Department of Physical Development, led by the Deputy Permanent Secretary.
Dr Senthil Rajendran, Project Team Leader at RMSI, expressed enthusiasm about developing a reliable and robust e-Land Registry System for Saint Lucia, stressing its impact on various sectors.
“When we talk about land, we are directly discussing economic development. The land registry interacts with multiple government departments, from taxation and urban planning to investment facilitation. A well-structured e-Land Registry will not only improve administrative efficiency but also boost investor confidence and economic resilience,” Dr Rajendran noted.
The Government of Saint Lucia remains committed to leveraging digital innovation to enhance public services and drive sustainable economic development. The implementation of the e-Land Registry System marks a significant step forward in improving land management and accessibility for all Saint Lucians.