The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission appointed Aisha Maina as its Strategic Advisor for Africa-Caribbean Cooperation on Tuesday [1].

This appointment marks a formal effort to institutionalize and expand the diplomatic and economic links between the Caribbean and African regions. By creating a dedicated strategic role, the OECS aims to move beyond symbolic gestures toward actionable cooperation in trade, governance, and development.

Maina serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Aquarian Consult Limited [1]. Her background in consultancy and strategic management is intended to provide the OECS with the technical expertise required to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of intercontinental partnerships.

According to a press release from the OECS, the commission is focused on bolstering collaboration across these two regions [3]. The initiative seeks to identify shared challenges and leverage mutual strengths to foster sustainable growth.

Representatives from the OECS Commission said the organization is proud to announce the official appointment to help bridge the gap between the Caribbean and African states [2]. The role will likely involve coordinating high-level meetings and developing frameworks for bilateral agreements.

This move comes as Caribbean nations increasingly look toward the Global South to diversify their international partnerships. By strengthening ties with African nations, the OECS can create new avenues for investment, and cultural exchange that reduce reliance on traditional Western allies.

“The OECS Commission is proud to announce the official appointment...”

The appointment of a dedicated advisor suggests the OECS is transitioning from general diplomatic interest to a structured strategy for South-South cooperation. By leveraging Maina's private sector experience via Aquarian Consult Limited, the commission is signaling a preference for professionalized, strategic planning to achieve tangible economic outcomes between Africa and the Caribbean.