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Hanley Addresses STEP Reform Amid Social Media Claims

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Hanley Addresses STEP Reform Amid Social Media Claims

By: Spokesman Newsroom 

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 12th February 2026)-Deputy Prime Minister and Minister with responsibility for the Skills Training Empowerment Programme (STEP), Dr. Geoffrey Hanley has dismissed social media claims that workers are being sent home, stating “We are not firing anybody.”

He made the disclosure during the sitting of the National Assembly on Thursday 12th February 2026, responding to a social media letter regarding the STEP Programme and outlining government’s reform efforts aimed at sustainability and shared responsibility with businesses.

Dr. Hanley shared: “… I saw something out there in the social media and as the minister with responsibility, I would not allow the social media to mislead the nation.”

According to him: “… when I see in the social media the letter that was sent to a particular business giving the impression, in the article, that we are running home people; people are going to be losing their jobs- Madame Speaker, absolutely rubbish. We are not firing anybody. All were are asking the businesses to do is to partner with the government so that we will be able to invest more in people.”

He highlighted that the reform discussions are not new.

“As you are aware, Madame Speaker, probably from since 2023, I have been speaking about the need for us to reform the STEP programme in this honourable house.”

He explained the original intent of the initiative, saying: “The original objective of the program was to facilitate employment of participants by providing them training to assist with achieving a long-term vision for development of our human capital and of course entrepreneurial skills. The plan, Madame Speaker, was to create a more efficient system to assist a large number of unskilled persons to successfully integrate into the workforce. The programme was also designed to assist trainees with this stipend and of course with the intention of them moving on but now”

Reflecting on the programme’s longevity, he stated: “…this programme has stuck with us…starting in 2012 and sad to say that there are some persons who are still on the program assigned to a number of businesses we were charged with the mandate of doing reform.”

Dr. Hanley outlined steps taken toward reform which includes work being carried out by a committee put in place. 

“We put a committee in place with a number of professionals who shared their report with the cabinet. And what we are doing, Madame Speaker, is ensuring that we bring the program to a sustainable level. Now, part of the reform speaker was to dialogue with the businesses that persons are assigned to, and we have been doing those consultations. Matter of fact, most of them were done last year and they were all written to,  indicating to them our intentions. Many of them came in, Madame Speaker, [and] sat with the team at the office and agreed that something had to be done.”

He added: “We are grateful to those who from the very onset said ‘I can do 50-50’. We are happy with that. There are some who brought in their statements and were able to say to us, at this time, ‘I can only do 60-40. I do 40, the program does the 60 as things get better’, and we welcomed those and every business would have been communicated or if they’re not in the batch; all will be. And all we’re asking Madame Speaker, is for these businesses after 10, 11 years you have persons assigned to you, it is only fair for you to now consider firstly partnering with us- sharing so that we’ll be able to help more persons who are in need of that assistance and eventually, we move towards you fully employing these people. I am very mindful, Madame Speaker, of the society that we are living in and very often when things are shown in the social media, we take it for gospel.”

Quoting scripture, he said: “But I am reminded this morning, in Proverbs 12 and 27, ‘Whoever is slothful will not roast his game, but the diligent man will get precious wealth’.”

He continued: “Basically what this scripture is saying to us, Madam Speaker, it highlights the danger of laziness and the value of using resources wisely. We know the programme has been a blessing to a number of persons and will continue to be a blessing but we cannot allow the programme to continue the way it is going otherwise we might end up in some serious problems. So when I see in the social media the letter that was sent to a particular business giving the impression, in the article, that we are running home people; people are going to be losing their jobs- Madame Speaker, absolutely rubbish. We are not firing anybody. All were are asking the businesses to do is to partner with the government so that we will be able to invest more in people.”

Dr. Hanley further stated: “because the reality is Madame Speaker, many of us would have been talking about how the programme; the persons not working and that kind of stuff and now we are trying to reorganize because the former administration promised reform and of course that didn’t happen, and we are doing that.”

Junior Calypso Monarch Coryn Clarke Delivers Standout Performance with Machel Montano at Monday Madness

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Junior Calypso Monarch Coryn Clarke Delivers Standout Performance with Machel Montano at Monday Madness

By Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 12th February 2026)-Reigning National Junior Calypso Monarch (Primary School Segment) Coryn Clarke has added an international highlight to her young career, following a featured performance alongside soca superstar Machel Montano at Monday Madness in Trinidad and Tobago; the top prize having won a recent Caribbean contest. 

The 10-year-old, proudly representing the Federation, appeared on stage at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad on Monday 9th February 2026 during the height of Carnival celebrations. 

With the St. Kitts and Nevis national flag in hand, Clarke joined Montano in performing his high-energy track, ‘Encore’, before thousands of patrons.

Her appearance came after winning Machel Montano’s “Give Dem Performance” social media competition, earning the opportunity to perform live at that major Carnival event.

Clarke’s contest entry video amassed the highest number of shares and reposts in the competition. Her 0.60 – second performance clip, recorded at Port Zante in St. Kitts, featured the young singer holding both Trinidad and Tobago and St. Kitts and Nevis flags while delivering her rendition of “Encore.”

Additionally, her entry generated significant online engagement, receiving more than 10,000 heart reactions and over 500 comments.

Machel Montano personally informed Clarke of her win during a video call, later shared to social media.

“I’m calling to let you know and announce that you have won the ‘Give Dem Performance’ competition… You had the most shares and reposts of your video, which I thoroughly enjoyed,” Montano said during the announcement.

After congratulating her on winning the competition, Montano paused and asked warmly, “Are you a singer?”  to which Clarke confidently replied, “Yes, I am.” Clearly impressed, Montano responded by revealing that she would be flown back home to Trinidad and Tobago to perform at Monday Madness alongside him and other top soca stars. 

Born in Trinidad and Tobago and currently residing in St. Kitts and Nevis, Clarke represents both nations. Her mother, Dionne Baptiste-Clarke, is a Trinidadian while her father, Ron Clarke, is Kittitian.

On her social media platforms, Clarke describes herself as “a 10-year-old author and performer born in  beautiful Trinidad and Tobago who currently lives in equally beautiful Saint Kitts and Nevis.”

Her display of both national flags during her contest performance and the SKN flag at Monday Madness resonated strongly with audiences online, where many praised her patriotism and stage confidence.

Following her appearance, Clarke expressed appreciation for the opportunity via her social media postings.

“Happy & grateful for each of the amazing opportunities I’ve had in my life so far. Performing at Monday Madness alongside King @machelmontano definitely ranks among the most epic things ever,” she shared in one post.

In another, she thanked supporters who helped propel her to victory in the competition, writing, “We did it, guys. WE DID IT! Thank you to everyone who liked, shared, reposted and/or commented on my video making this possible.”

Feedback from Monday Madness continues to highlight her stage presence and composure at such a young age.

Monday Madness also featured performances from Voice and V’ghn – both slated to perform at this year’s St. Kitts Music Festival – as well as Yung Bredda, Lady Lava, Nailah Blackman, Nadia Batson and several other regional soca acts.

With Machel Montano scheduled to perform at the upcoming St. Kitts Music Festival in June, speculation has already begun among fans about the possibility of another on-stage collaboration- this time on St.Kitts-Nevis soil.

The “Give Dem Performance” challenge, announced on January 27, 2026, invited Caribbean nationals to submit 30–60 second Instagram videos performing “Encore.” Participants were required to tag designated accounts, use the hashtag #MMEncore, and accumulate shares and reposts to advance.

The top three entries moved on to public voting, with the final winner earning a live performance slot at Monday Madness. Contest rules required a Caribbean passport, appropriate content standards, and parental consent for participants under 18.

PLP Introduces Candidate Selection Process With Deadline 

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PLP Introduces Candidate Selection Process With Deadline 

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 12th February 2026)-With the announcement of the introduction of a candidate selection process, the Opposition People’s Labour Party (PLP) is giving interested persons almost seven weeks to formally indicate their interest before the set deadline.

Party Leader and Parliamentary Representative For St.Christopher Seven Dr. Timothy Harris, in speaking at a party press conference on Wednesday 11th February 2026 held at the St.Kitts Marriott, pointed out that capability and readiness will be among the key scoring areas as the party prepares for the upcoming general elections.

Of note, apart from his candidacy, there has been no official details about any one else for the other seven constituencies.  

According to Dr. Harris, the selection process form had been made available to executive committee members long before.

“Transparency and fairness will prevail. The rules, the criteria and the processes; they’ve all been discussed at our national executive meeting on more than one occasion. The form itself had been made available to members of the present national executive long before we are now making it more widely available.”

Dr. Harris in talking about the candidate selection process, he shared: “We are readying ourselves to serve you better, better than before. And in this regard, I should give notice that the People’s Labour Party has now officially declared its own season of accepting applications for persons who are interested in being candidates for the party. We, therefore, invite all concerned citizens to join the PLP and contribute to its further strengthening and development, whether you are living abroad or you’re living here, you can be considered as a candidate of the People’s Labour Party.”

Dr. Harris described the move as unusual but progressive.

“We have taken this unusual but progressive step to ensure that a wide pool of prospective candidates emerges for screening and approval by the Candidate Selection Committee authorized by the Constitution.”

He confirmed the deadline for submissions.

“This process of application will close by the 31st of March 2026 unless otherwise altered by the National Executive of the Party.”

Emphasizing transparency and openness, he stated: “No other party has been as open and inclusive as the People’s Labour Party. This is history in the making. It signals our intention to administer a government for all citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis.”

Outlining the framework for evaluation, Dr. Harris explained that candidates will be assessed using defined criteria.

“Our candidate selection process will be guided by certain key principles. For example, merit and competence. We’ll make selection based on capability, your readiness, your integrity. You get a score on that.”

Electability, he said, will also be a factor.

“Electability. Can you deliver the seat as how Harris will deliver his seat? And every candidate of the PLP must deliver their seat. Electability, the ability to win the constituency, community involvement, genuine connection to and bond with your constituents.”

He added that while grassroots input will be encouraged, the final decision will rest with the party’s selection body.

“Internal democracy at work; we will give an input to people from the constituency which you desire to represent but of course the strategic judgment rests with the candidate selection committee which will have the final say and will act in the broad national interest.”

Dr. Harris said the process will be conducted openly.

He also underscored that selection brings responsibility.

“Once you are selected, you now have additional responsibility and there is a performance expectation that you will deliver the seat in a big way so you have to do the work. You have to be at work. The work now begins.”

Highlighting the party’s viewpoint, Dr. Harris stated: “So we are asking, we appreciate that our greatest resource is our people. The PLP has always known this and treasured this. We must institutionalize the mechanism to put our people to work in the interest of a better St.Kitts and Nevis.”

He described the initiative as a grassroots democratic effort.

“Our PLP, your PLP, by this grassroots democratic approach, is opening up to all our people to be part of history in the making. So I encourage you to step up to the plate. Working together, we will make St.Kitts and Nevis the best small island state. I promise you that the PLP will do better than what you have, so much better.”

Pointing to the party’s past governance record, he said: “We come with the record and with your knowledge that PLP’s leadership that has been ever present in Team Unity did it before, and we shall and we will in your name do it again. We will save St. Kitts and Nevis through openness, competence and determination.”

He added: “We will serve the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, not expecting them to be the ones serving us. We will bring servant leadership.”

Dr. Harris extended an appeal locally and abroad.

“We will be with you all the way, every day. We offer you hope for a much better future and we pledge that to all of you. I invite the entire citizens, well-wishers, residents of St.Kitts and Nevis, wherever you are in the diaspora, to help us save St. Kitts and Nevis from the path of ruin on which it now finds itself.”

Interested individuals can obtain the party’s application form by submitting a request via email to plpcandidates2026@gmail.com

A Double Dose of Patriotic Goodness

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A Double Dose of Patriotic Goodness

This week has delivered what many could only be described as a double dose of patriotic goodness.

In a moment that sparked pride across timelines and group chats, our national flag was featured in highlighting the Americas during the Super Bowl halftime performance on Sunday night by Grammy-award Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny.

Also, the reigning Junior Calypso Monarch 10-year-old Coryn Clarke, proudly representing St. Kitts and Nevis, captured international attention by winning Machel Montano’s “Gih Dem Performance” social media challenge-earning the grand prize of a live performance opportunity being featured on ‘Madness Monday’ in her birth country of Trinidad and Tobago during the carnival festivities. 

There is no denying it – we love to see it.

We love to share the posts and see the reposts. We love the celebratory captions filled with flag emojis and affirmations of national pride. We love the collective ‘That’s we country’ echoing across social media platforms. And truthfully, it is a good look.

Moments like these remind us that even as a small twin-island Federation, our talent and our symbols can command global attention. For those at home, it reinforces that greatness can emerge from our soil. For those in the diaspora, it rekindles connection and belonging. These instances of international visibility serve as emotional unifiers – brief but powerful reminders that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.

But here is the deeper question: What happens after the applause fades?

Patriotism cannot exist only in moments of spectacle. It cannot be seasonal. It cannot be activated solely by viral posts or international validation. True patriotism is not performance-based -it is practice-based.

It is easy to wave a flag when the spotlight is on us. It is far more difficult to embody national pride in the quiet, everyday decisions that shape our country’s future. Patriotism is not just about celebrating when one of our own wins abroad; it is about ensuring that the environment at home nurtures many more winners.

Do we support our young creatives consistently-not just when they trend?

Do we invest enough in local platforms that cultivate talent?

Do we challenge mediocrity and push for excellence across sectors -from education to governance to entrepreneurship?

If we truly feel the swell of pride when Coryn Clarke shines on an international stage, then we must also ask ourselves whether we are building systems that make such success sustainable rather than exceptional.

This reflection is particularly timely as we observe Black History Month. February is more than symbolic recognition; it is a reminder of the resilience, innovation and sacrifice of our fore parents. The strides we celebrate today were built on foundations laid by those who dared to believe in a future they might never see.

Our ancestors did not practice convenient patriotism. Their commitment to community upliftment was costly. It required courage, discipline and a long-term vision of collective advancement.

So as we cheer the regional and international wins, we must also recommit to nation-building at home.

Patriotism must show up in how we treat each other.

It must show up in how we mentor the next generation.

It must show up in how we protect our institutions and demand accountability.

It must show up in how we support local businesses, artists, and innovators – even before the world notices them.

A flag on the Super Bowl stage is a powerful image. A young Kittitian-Nevisian talent earning recognition from one of the Caribbean’s biggest entertainers is an inspiring achievement. These moments matter. They uplift us. They remind us of what is possible.

But the real test of patriotism is not how loudly we celebrate success. It is how deliberately we cultivate it.

And if we can carry that spirit forward – beyond the spotlight, beyond the spectacle -then the next time our flag appears on a global stage, it will not simply be a moment of excitement.

It will be the natural outcome of a people who never stopped repping their country – in thought, in action and in purpose.

Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organisation (WHO)

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Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organisation (WHO)

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis reaffirms its principled support for the meaningful participation of Taiwan in the work and meetings of the World Health Organisation (WHO), including the 158th Session of the WHO Executive Board.

As a Federation, we firmly believe that global health challenges transcend borders and politics. Issues such as communicable and non-communicable diseases, pandemic preparedness, mental health, maternal and child nutrition, and universal health coverage require inclusive cooperation and the collective engagement of all capable partners. The exclusion of any responsible and technologically advanced health system from international health discussions undermines the effectiveness of the global public health architecture.

Taiwan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to advancing public health, strengthening healthcare delivery systems, promoting innovation in digital health, and contributing expertise and resources to international humanitarian and medical initiatives. Its experience in disease prevention, universal health coverage, and health technology innovation represents valuable knowledge that can benefit the wider international community.

St Kitts and Nevis therefore supports Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the WHO and related mechanisms in a practical and constructive manner that allows for the sharing of expertise, data, and best practices. Such participation is not only consistent with the universal right to health but also aligns with the shared global objective of ensuring health security and well-being for all peoples.

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis reiterates its longstanding position that international cooperation in health must remain inclusive, people-centered, and guided by the common good. At a time when the world continues to confront complex and evolving health threats, unity and collaboration remain indispensable.

St. Kitts and Nevis stands ready to work with all partners in the international community to advance a resilient, equitable, and effective global health system in which no capable contributor is left unheard.

National Assembly Meets On Thursday, February 12, 2026

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National Assembly Meets On Thursday, February 12, 2026

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, February 05, 2026 (SKNIS): Notice has been given for a sitting of the National Assembly to be held at the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, Basseterre, on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10 a.m.

The Order Paper and other Papers will be issued at a later date.

The National Assembly will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and participating radio stations. It can also be viewed live on TV Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis. It will also be streamed live at www.zizonline.com.

Copies of the Bills will be made available on the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service website (sknis.gov.kn) under the “Bills” section as soon as they are posted.

Nicolas N Menon Takes the Helm as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TDC

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Nicolas N Menon Takes the Helm as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TDC

The St. Kitts Nevis Anguilla Trading and Development Company Limited (TDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Nicolas N. Menon as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 February 2026.

He brings a wealth of experience at a pivotal time in the company’s continued growth and transformation. His revolutionary vision, a strong track record in executive leadership, tactical management, operational excellence and a strong business acumen are traits that he brings to the role. 

In his new capacity, he is responsible for driving the Group’s strategic direction, strengthening operational performance across subsidiaries, and advancing TDC’s long-standing commitment to innovation, customer service, and sustainable development within St. Kitts and Nevis and the wider Caribbean region.

Mr. Menon joined the company in 1994, after a successful tenure as a Management Consultant with several leading business houses in the United Kingdom, and six months later, in 1995, he was appointed head of the Marketing Department. 

He oversaw the establishment of the new unit that managed the development and implementation of initiatives that were guided by innovative branding strategies, leadership of cross-functional teams, promotions and advertising, all driven by market research and calculated decision making.

His robust and excellent work ethics did not go unnoticed, and in 2000, Mr. Menon was appointed to serve as an Executive Director with responsibilities for Client Relations, Marketing, Retail, Insurance, Real Estate Development and Manufacturing.

In 2003, he was appointed to serve as the Programme Director of the TDC Warren C Tyson Scholarship Programme (an in-house mentorship scheme for young persons named after the companies’ first chairman), a role he embraces with passion.

Mr. Menon expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the organization, noting:

“It is an honour to assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of TDC, an indigenous company that continues to shape and play a vital role in the economic and social development of St. Kitts and Nevis for over five decades. I look forward with confidence and purpose to working with the Board, management, and staff to build on the strong legacy and to guide the Company into its next phase of growth.”

Mr. Menon holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Cranfield University (London) and Babson College (United States) and a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honours in Geography and Economics from the University of Liverpool.

January 2026 List of Voters Online

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The general public is advised that the January 2026 List of Voters can be accessed online at legal.gov.kn/electoral-office-3/

Members of the public are invited to visit the website to access and review their information.

Creative Economy Hosts Forum on ‘Wilders’ Music

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Creative Economy Hosts Forum on ‘Wilders’ Music

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Tuesday 3rd February 2026)-“Is this sound its own genre, or a sub-genre of soca? And who gets to decide that? We see similar debates happening across the region. Every genre we now recognise globally was once questioned, criticised and misunderstood.”

So said Director of the Department of Creative Economy, Roberitine Webbe, as she delivered remarks during Wilders Forum 2026 (Part One), held under the theme “Defining Our Sound: Charting the Way Forward” at the CUNA Conference Room on Monday 2nd February 2026.

The forum, hosted by the Department of Creative Economy, focused on the uptempo music unique to St. Kitts and Nevis that has been played and popularised for decades by local jam bands and unofficially referred to as Wilders. 

As understood, such a two-day session has marked the beginning of a national dialogue aimed at defining, documenting, and positioning the sound within both cultural and economic frameworks.

In outlining the purpose of the forum, Webbe made it clear that the initiative was not about imposing decisions or erasing history.

“Today is not about announcing a decision. It is not about telling anyone what our sound should be called, and it is certainly not about erasing history,” she stated.

Rather, she explained, the forum was intended to confront conversations that have long been postponed. “Today is about starting a conversation we have avoided, neglected, or simply did not understand the true value of for far too long,” Webbe said.

She emphasized that the sound being discussed is neither theoretical nor newly created. 

“Whether we like it or not, the sound we are talking about already exists. It has existed for decades, and traditionally it has been known by the very people who created it as Wilders,” she noted.

While acknowledging that debate around naming is inevitable, Webbe cautioned against dismissing history for the sake of convenience.

“We may debate the spelling. We may debate whether the name travels well internationally. We may even decide collectively that another name may better serve the future. But what we cannot do is pretend that the history does not exist simply because it makes us uncomfortable,” she said.

Webbe stressed that the discussion goes far beyond labels, saying: “This forum is not about a name in isolation. It is about identity, ownership, cultural memory, and how we choose to carry our sound forward without losing its soul,” she explained.

She challenged participants to reflect deeply on what defines the sound as distinctly Kittitian and Nevisian. 

“What are the elements that make this sound unmistakably ours? Is it the rhythm? How we react when we dance – whether fast or slow, the bounce or the walk-up? These elements are undisputedly our own,” Webbe said.

She also touched on authenticity and commercial appeal. 

“Are we naming our sound to appease international markets? And if so, what do we lose in the process? Does commercialisation require cultural dilution, or can authenticity be the very thing that gives us global distinction?” she asked.

Webbe emphasized that any decisions regarding the future of the sound must be collective and inclusive. 

“These are not questions for one department, one generation, or one meeting,” she said, underscoring the importance of engaging artists, musicians, promoters, managers, cultural practitioners, intellectual property experts, and other stakeholders across the creative ecosystem.

She further explained that the forum represents the first step in a longer process. “This forum marks the beginning of a process to define, document, protect, brand, market, and advance the sound we have always known, while preparing it for a future we want,” Webbe stated. She added that discussions would inform the formation of a task force to guide the work “responsibly, transparently, and collaboratively beyond today.”

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of the Creative Economy, Delrine Taylor, described the Wilders Forum as a critical national dialogue initiative.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of the Creative Economy, Delrine Taylor speaking at the Wilders Forum 2026 (Part One), held under the theme “Defining Our Sound: Charting the Way Forward” at the CUNA Conference Room on Monday 2nd February 2026.

She explained that the initiative was designed to facilitate “an inclusive, structured national conversation aimed at gaining a clearer understanding of the indigenous sound- or sound of St. Kitts and Nevis- traditionally known as Wilders music.”

Taylor highlighted the importance of defining the sound in relation to branding, export potential, and intellectual property, noting that this approach ensures cultural preservation while creating economic opportunity.

“Simply put, this is part of our DNA. This is our culture. This is who we are,” she concluded.

Music Festival First Wave Leaves Fans Guessing For Next Announcement

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Music Festival First Wave Leaves Fans Guessing For Next Announcement

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Tuesday 3rd February 2026)-Following the recent first-wave announcement of performers for the upcoming 28th St. Kitts Music Festival, fans and music lovers across the Federation have gone into full speculation mode, eagerly guessing – and loudly wishing-who will be revealed in the much-anticipated second wave of act(s).

The initial lineup has unveiled twenty-three (23) acts, featuring a melting pot of national, regional and international musical flavours.

Among those flying the Federation’s flag are four (4) entertainers namely: Nu Vybes Band International (reigning Road March Champions), Rucas HE, Brandon of the ASAP Band, Zu, Rodney Tattat, and Gharlic & Upper Level Band.

The annual three-night musical extravaganza is slated for Thursday 25th to Saturday 27th June 2026, and the lineup announced so far also includes: Fantasia, Mavado, Aidonia, Luciano, Shelly & Signal Band, Voice, V’ghn, Machel Montano, Beres Hammond, Tarrus Riley, Dean Fraser & The Black Soil Band, Steel Pulse, Shaniel Muir, D’Yani, Kranium, Edwin Yearwood & Krosfyah, Valiant and Masicka.

Since the announcement, social media timelines, group chats and street-corner conversations have been buzzing as fans submit wish lists and genre predictions ahead of what festival organisers say will be a special announcement slated for Friday 6th February 2026.

The live-streamed launch event of the first wave was held at Salt Plage on the South East Peninsula on Monday 2nd February, hosted by media personality Leslie ‘Sugar Bowl’ Morton, with announcements delivered through video presentations accompanied by the artistes’ music.

Addressing partners and stakeholders, Minister of Tourism Marsha Henderson underscored the broader significance of the festival beyond entertainment.

“This evening is about celebration, connection and appreciation,” said Minister Henderson, as 

she thanked sponsors, artistes, promoters, vendors, creatives, tourism partners, security services, volunteers, and members of the festival committee and secretariat.

“The strength of this festival lies in your commitment and your collaboration and we are truly grateful.”

She emphasized that the St. Kitts Music Festival plays a pivotal role in national development.

“The St. Kitts Music Festival is far more than entertainment. In fact, it is one of our flagship tourism products, driving visitor arrivals, supporting our businesses and showcasing the creativity, the talent and vibrant spirit of St. Kitts to the world,” she said.

“It also plays a key role in our broader tourism strategy, supporting airlift, encouraging longer stays and helping to position St. Kitts as a dynamic year-round destination, one that delivers real benefits to our people.”

Minister Henderson noted that the economic impact of the festival reaches everyday citizens.

“The economic activity stirred by this festival is one that trickles into the pockets of the ordinary man, helping therefore to transform lives,” she added.

She also issued a heartfelt invitation to nationals abroad.

“To our diaspora around the world, we are inviting you to come home once again and to experience the island that has shaped you. The St. Kitts Music Festival is a homecoming.”

Also speaking at the launch was Chairman of the St. Kitts Music Festival Committee, Allister Williams, who highlighted the milestone nature of the upcoming event.

“Tonight is about appreciation and partnerships as we gather in anticipation of a very special milestone -the 28th annual St. Kitts Music Festival,” Williams said.

“Reaching 28 years is no small achievement. It speaks to the vision of those who laid the foundation, the resilience of the festival over time, and the unwavering support of partners like all of you.”

Williams traced the festival’s evolution from its early beginnings.

“In 1996, the Shak Shak Music Festival, also known as the St.Kitts Music Festival, was born as a celebration of culture through music with a clear purpose to create opportunity and generate revenue for our local communities,” he said.

“Today, it has evolved into one of the premier festivals in the region, growing in relevance each year through intentional planning and a commitment to showcasing some of the most notable regional and global acts on our stage.”

He stressed the collective responsibility to maintain high standards.

“This journey reflects how far we have come while reminding us of our shared responsibility to continue raising the standard, delivering a safe, high-quality and memorable experience for our audiences, our visitors and our community,” Williams stated.

“The St. Kitts Music Festival belongs to all of us, and its longevity is a true testament to the power of collaboration.”

As anticipation continues to build, fans are holding out hope for surprise additions -with many calling for a major international R&B or Hip-Hop act making a St. Kitts debut.

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