Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 17, 2024 (SKNIS): St. Kitts and Nevis will increase its protection of persons with disabilities while strengthening empowerment opportunities with the review of the 2017 disabilities policy and drafting of a Disabilities Bill.

Senator, the Honorable Isalean Phillip, shared that the exercise was currently underway, while giving an update on her ministries during the first day of debate on the 2025 Budget on December 17, 2024.

Photo: Senator, the Honourable Isalean Phillip

“We are moving steadily along with alacrity on consultations in order to finalise the draft of our National Disability Policy,” Senator Phillip stated. “That work has certainly started and is near completion. I anticipate that we will come back to this Honourable House in 2025 to table those documents (the policy and Bill).”

For many years, individuals with disabilities and their supporters have advocated for meaningful changes to improve the quality of life and conditions for those living with disabilities, who are often marginalised in society.

Upon assuming office in August 2022, the Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, established the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities to provide focused attention to issues affecting the disabled community. Since then, the ministry has enhanced public awareness of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, implemented new policies to promote accessibility for all, and ensured that people with disabilities, or those impacted by them, have a stronger presence in public consultations and forums.

As the minister of state responsible for the ministry, Honourable Phillip expressed pleasure that she is a part of the policy-making group leading this critical push for change.

Basseterre, St. Kitts (December 16, 2024) – Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, announced during the 2025 Budget Address delivered on Monday, December 16, 2024, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis’ bold commitment to strengthening border security and enhancing travel facilitation with the implementation of an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) System.

Set to roll out in the fiscal year 2025, the eTA system is a modern, digital solution designed to provide pre-arrival authorisation for travellers seeking entry into St. Kitts and Nevis through designated ports. This initiative not only reflects the government’s dedication to secure borders but also promises to boost the local economy by making travel to the Federation seamless and efficient.

“As we strive to secure our borders and facilitate safe, seamless travel, it is imperative that we embrace modern solutions that align with global best practices,” said Prime Minister Dr. Drew.

This streamlined process is expected to enhance security measures while expediting travel procedures, creating a more welcoming experience for visitors.

“This is what I am talking about Madam Speaker, when you can just come off of a plane, we have all of your information here so you can just walk and all the information is collected,” stated Prime Minister Dr. Drew. “This is going to help to add to our revenues here in St. Kitts and Nevis.”

The initiative comes at a time when global trends demand innovative approaches to border management. St. Kitts and Nevis aims to strike the perfect balance between maintaining high-security standards and fostering a traveller-friendly environment.

“Madam Speaker, the rapidly changing global landscape requires us to adapt and innovate to ensure that our borders remain both secure and accessible,” added Dr. Drew. “With this system, we can create borders that are secure yet welcoming and protective but open to global opportunities. We therefore look forward to the full operationalization of the eTA system at our ports of entry in 2025.”

The prime minister said that the eTA system underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the Federation while leveraging technology to support tourism – the backbone of the local economy. He said that St. Kitts and Nevis continues to position itself as a forward-thinking and globally connected destination.

Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 16, 2024 (SKNIS): During the 2025 Budget Address on Monday, December 16, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing education and workforce training through strategic investments in digital transformation and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Speaking in the National Assembly, Prime Minister Drew outlined significant upgrades planned for the Advanced Vocational Education Centre (AVEC), with a focus on integrating cutting-edge technology into its training programmes.

“The 2025 Budget will facilitate significant upgrades at AVEC, including the integration of immersive simulators such as a welding simulator and painting simulator which utilise Virtual Reality (VR) technology to simulate real-world training experiences while promoting the efficient use of resources,” Dr. Drew announced. “This technology is designed to shorten the learning curve and enhance operators’ skills to dramatically increase productivity, decrease energy consumption by 50 percent, reduce waste of consumables, and wear on real equipment, and reduce accidents. In 2025, upgrades to AVEC will also include the outfitting of smart classrooms to enhance the teaching and learning experience.”

The prime minister emphasised that enhancing TVET is central to achieving his administration’s vision of a sustainable island state with maximised employment opportunities. Through ongoing collaboration with the TVET Secretariat and Council, the government is positioning St. Kitts and Nevis as a regional leader in certified, skilled workforce development across emerging sectors.

The prime minister also highlighted advancements in renewable energy training.

“The partnership developed with Green Solutions International provides expanded opportunities for nationals to be trained and certified in these key areas. In fact, the CFBC, in collaboration with Green Solutions International SKN Incorporated (GSI), established the Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training in March of this year,” Dr. Drew said.

The Centre, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme, will offer comprehensive training in solar PV installation and electric vehicle (EV) maintenance and repair, making the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) a regional hub for renewable energy workforce training and innovation.

These investments, Dr. Drew said, align with the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda, supporting the transition to renewable energy, reducing the food import bill, and fostering economic diversification through skills development in agriculture and the creative economy.

Saint Kitts and Nevis, December 16, 2024 – The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is delighted to announce the successful completion of management agreements between Solidus Corp, the project developer, and Marriott International, Inc. to build The St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel and Residences. This milestone paves the way for the prestigious The Ritz-Carlton brand to come to the island, set to elevate the destination’s luxury hospitality offerings.

The Ritz-Carlton is renowned for providing distinctive luxury and legendary service around the world, and this monumental development signals a new chapter in St. Kitts’ evolution as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean, reinforcing the Drew-led administration’s commitment to economic growth and tourism excellence.

Solidus Corp. has completed the purchase of the iconic 252-acre privately owned Friars Bay Estate, a critical milestone underscoring its commitment to St Kitts. In close association with Solidus Corp. and The Ritz-Carlton, the Drew-led government has demonstrated leadership in promoting St. Kitts and Nevis as a premier destination for investments.

“This venture represents a transformative moment for St. Kitts and Nevis,” said Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew. “Our administration has delivered on our promise to finalize an agreement with The St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel and Residences, and this exclusive destination will not only elevate St. Kitts as a luxury destination but is also anticipated also create significant opportunities for our people.”

The new luxury resort has the potential to be a significant driver of economic growth, creating hundreds of jobs during its construction phase and approximately 250 permanent positions once operational. The project will actively engage local contractors, consultants, and businesses, showcasing a strong commitment to leveraging local talent and resources throughout its development.

Situated on the picturesque Southeast Peninsula, The St Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel and Residences has advanced through concept and design development and will feature 125 guest suites, 10 branded villas, and 15 branded condominium residences. Guests will enjoy a luxury spa, multiple swimming pools, exceptional dining options, a The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club, the Ritz Kids Club and other amenities all designed within a ‘Kittitian Village’ concept. This innovative layout blends modern luxury with the island’s natural beauty, creating an unforgettable experience for travelers.

“The development of The St. Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel and Residences represents a pivotal achievement in our journey to position St. Kitts as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean,” stated Minister of Tourism, Hon. Marsha T. Henderson. “This project not only underscores the confidence that global brands like Ritz-Carlton and Solidus Corp. have in our island but also reinforces our commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth, empowering local talent, and showcasing the unmatched beauty and charm of St. Kitts. We are thrilled to see this vision come to life and the transformative impact it will have on our people and our tourism industry.”

Having begun preliminary geotechnical investigations, coastal engineering and property surveying, construction on the property is anticipated to begin by the third quarter 2025, and physical geotechnical investigative operations are set to commence this month, December 2024. The St Kitts Ritz-Carlton Resort Hotel is expected to open in the second Quarter 2028.

The natural beauty of Saint Kitts and Nevis attracts travellers from every corner of the world. Steeped in history, this destination, which is part of the Leeward Island chain of the Lesser Antilles, is treasured for its breathtaking mountainous terrain, rain forests, winding roads and expansive beaches.

“The highly anticipated opening of The Ritz-Carlton sets a new standard of luxury in St. Kitts and Nevis, offering an extraordinary escape that blends world-class service with the Caribbean’s breathtaking beauty,” said Pamela Vasquez, Director of Development for Marriott International in the Caribbean and Latin America. “This project marks a significant milestone in our commitment to bringing unparalleled luxury and service to St. Kitts, demonstrating our confidence in the island’s potential and our dedication to fostering growth and exceptional experiences for our guests.”

As this landmark project moves forward, the collaboration between Solidus Corp., Marriott International, Inc., and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is set to position the twin-island nation as one of the most sought-after luxury travel destinations in the Caribbean.

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, December 13, 2024 (PMO) – The government of St. Kitts and Nevis, under the leadership of Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, is steadily moving forward to address the urgent housing needs of St. Kitts and Nevis.

The Prime Minister, along with Minister of Housing and Human Settlement —Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Ambassador Leon Natta-Nelson, and representatives from the National Housing Corporation (NHC) and the East Coast Housing Development Ltd., visited the site of a major new housing development in Ottleys, Constituency Number Seven, on December 11, 2024, where the construction of 20 new homes is underway.

The housing development, which is part of the government’s national housing strategy, will consist of 20 residential lots that will feature a mix of two-bedroom and three-bedroom homes. This initiative is designed to provide quality homes for families within the community, allowing them to own property in their own community, a key component of the government’s vision to empower citizens through homeownership.

Housing Minister Dr. Hanley, who has played a pivotal role in advancing the government’s housing agenda, reflected on the significance of the project during the site visit. “I am pleased to be here in Ottleys, watching as 20 homes are being constructed for the people of Constituency Number Seven. This is just one of the many projects the government is working on to meet the ever-growing demand for affordable housing. We know how important homeownership is to our citizens, and we are committed to ensuring that we fulfill the promise of providing homes to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.”

Prime Minister Dr. Drew, who has made affordable housing a central element of his administration’s agenda, also expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “I am elated with what we are seeing here today. These 20 homes being constructed in Ottleys represent a significant step forward in our housing revolution. It is not just about providing homes but also about creating opportunities for our people.”

Prime Minister Drew furthered to note that “In addition to offering affordable housing, this project will also create job opportunities for contractors and construction workers in various fields, contributing to the local economy and empowering the community.”

The housing development project in Ottleys is being executed by East Coast Housing Development Ltd., a company with a track record of delivering quality housing solutions. Ambassador Natta-Nelson acknowledged the positive impact the project would have on the residents of Constituency Number Seven. “This is a project that has been a long time coming,” she stated. “Many people in this constituency have long desired the opportunity to own homes in their community. Today, with the support of the government, we are seeing that dream come to fruition.”

The project is in its early stages, with work currently focused on preparing the foundations for the homes. Construction crews are now at the footing stage, with plans to complete the foundation and begin building the superstructure in the coming weeks. Ambassador Natta-Nelson expressed confidence in the project’s timely completion, noting that the next phase would include laying the blocks and preparing for the final touches on the homes.

“We are proud to be part of this housing revolution,” Ambassador Natta-Nelson said. “The work being done here is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens and addressing the housing needs of communities like Ottleys.”

In the past two and a half years, the National Housing Corporation (NHC) has delivered 112 homes, a remarkable achievement compared to previous years, and there are plans for many more in communities throughout the Federation. Minister Hanley noted the progress made, saying, “In just two and a half years, NHC has delivered 112 homes, which is a record when compared to the 13 homes delivered under the previous administration during the same period.”

As part of the government’s ongoing housing program, other developments are being planned for various areas of St. Kitts and Nevis, including Stapleton, Sandy Point, and Newton Ghaut. These developments will continue to address the housing needs of residents and offer affordable options for homeownership across the Federation.

The government remains committed to making housing more accessible to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, and with the support of East Coast Housing Development Ltd., the NHC, and other stakeholders, significant progress is being made to ensure that every citizen has access to safe and affordable housing.

“This is not just about building houses,” Dr. Drew said. “It’s about empowering our people, improving communities, and creating a better future for all. The work that is being done here in Ottleys is part of a larger effort to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to own a home and live in a community that is thriving, prosperous, and sustainable.”

To learn more about the government’s achievements and successes, visit www.gov.kn/national-accomplishments.