The prime minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit, has spoken of Dominica’s struggle to recover from Hurricane Maria, which left at least 25 people dead and devastated the country’s infrastructure.

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“We are 100 percent without power… From the domestic company, nobody in this country has any power. There is complete darkness in the country,” said Skerrit.

According to the prime minister, power should be returned to the country’s two major hospitals today, followed by government services.

Hurricane Maria has also destroyed the country’s agricultural sector, said Skerrit.

Dominica was a big exporter of bananas “but agriculture is now at zero, completely at zero, “ said Skerrit.

The prime minister also confirmed that 18 people are confirmed missing and another 17 people are unconfirmed missing.

Despite the devastation, Skerrit is optimistic about the country’s recovery efforts.

“We are making some progress. We are pushing very hard,” he said, adding that the country is now able to make international telephone calls.

Improved weather has also helped aid reach the country. “But the need is still very great,” he added.