Building Local Economies: Kimmirut Revisited

David Boult, Exactly As Shown

Developing a local economy is a demanding process anywhere. It's especially challenging in Nunavut, where small populations, big distances, and the high cost of doing business present real difficulties.

To date Aarluk has developed economic development plans for over half the communities in Nunavut. The most recent example of this work was a June visit by David Boult to the beautiful community of Kimmirut, south Baffin Island, to update a previous plan done by Aarluk in 2007.

David met with a number of people in the community involved in business and economic development, and particularly enjoyed his discussions with Mayor Jamesie Kootoo, the hamlet staff (including Akeego Ikkidluak, SAO) and members of the Hunter and Trapper Association, including manager Mary Akavak. In addition, he visited Don Power, a manager of the Kimik Coop, the Northern Store, and Patrick Akavak, Parks manager for the area. Their insights and opinions will form a critical basis for the plan update.

A highlight of the trip was a tour of the immediate region hosted by Qapik Ikkidluak, the hamlet’s economic development officer. The tour provided important insights into some of the economic development activities underway in the community and once again left David with that most satisfying feeling: “I can’t believe I get paid for this”.