Press Release
(Bay Road, Basseterre, St. Kitts u2013 April 22, 2026) u2014 The St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board successfully convened its Stakeholder Reform Conference yesterday (Tuesday 21st April 2026) at the St. Kitts Marriott Ballroom, under the theme u201cRefining Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow.u201d The full-day event brought together regional and international experts and key social partners to engage in critical dialogue on the future of social security in the Federation.
The conference featured an impressive lineup of distinguished speakers, including Timothy Antoineu2014Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank; Derek Osborneu2014Actuary; Stewart Haynesu2014Director of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Insurance Service; Kim Tudoru2014CEO of Barbados National Insurance and Social Security Services; Kagisanyo Kelobangu2014Social Protection Actuarial Officer at the International Labour Organization; and Joni Musabayanau2014Director of the ILO Office for the Caribbean.
Local perspectives were also strongly represented by Precious Millsu2014General Secretary of the St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union; Trevor Blakeu2014Immediate Past President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce; and Christopher Louard, Director of the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board.
A major highlight of the conference was the address delivered by the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drewu2014Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and Minister with responsibility for Social Security in a candid and thought-provoking presentation. Prime Minister Drew acknowledged the longstanding challenges surrounding Social Security reform, describing it as a u201cpolitical canu201d that has been kicked down the road for years. He emphasized the urgency of decisive action and signalled his administrationu2019s commitment to confronting the issue head-on.
u201cToo often, the necessary reforms have been delayed,u201d the Prime Minister noted. u201cThe time has come for leadership, courage, and responsibility. We cannot continue to defer decisions that impact the future security of our people.u201d He further hinted that his government stands ready to take the bold steps required, positioning himself as a leader prepared to u201cpick up the canu201d and drive meaningful reform for the sustainability of the system.
Throughout the conference, discussions centered on actuarial realities, demographic shifts, financial sustainability, and the importance of policy modernization. Presenters underscored the need for collaborative approaches, data-driven decision-making, and public engagement to ensure that social security systems remain resilient and responsive to evolving economic conditions.
Closing the conference, Mrs. Janet Harrisu2014Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the St Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, noted in her u201cWay Forwardu201d speech that yesterdayu2019s conference marked a significant step toward meaningful reform. Mrs. Harris further stated that the conversations held and ideas shared have laid a strong foundation for shaping a more resilient and inclusive Social Security system for current and future generations.
The St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board extends sincere thanks to all presenters, participants, and partners who contributed to the success of the conference. The insights and recommendations generated will play a vital role in guiding the next phase of reform discussions and policy development.
The public is encouraged to stay connected via the Social Securityu2019s digital platforms for updates, highlights, and opportunities to engage in the ongoing dialogue surrounding Social Security reform.