Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 01, 2024 (SKNIS): The Department of Youth Empowerment has officially declared the start of Youth Month 2024, under the theme “Mental Health Matters for Youth Development and Sustainability.” This month-long celebration, running from November 01 to 30, is packed with engaging activities designed for the general public to participate in and support the nation’s youth.

The first event kicking off the month is the annual Youth Art Exhibition, themed “Exploration of Kittitian Culture through a Variety of Lenses.” This exhibition, which opens tonight, November 01, at the Department of Youth’s Office in The Cable Building, is a showcase of the creative talents of high school students, with pieces reflecting various perspectives including shattered, bacchanal, twists and turns, bittersweet, and country life.

“I urge the general public to visit us from November 01 – 30, where all the paintings from the high schoolers will be on display. Come on out and support them because they worked very hard on these pieces,” said Sahira Joseph, Director of Youth Empowerment.

Following the art exhibition, the Youth Month activities continue with the prestigious “25 Most Remarkable Teens” event on November 06 in the Parliament Chambers, celebrating the 13^th batch of exceptional young individuals since the programme’s inception. On November 12, culinary enthusiasts can look forward to the Chef Competition at the Marriott Dome, featuring finalists from the recent cook-off competing for the grand prize.

The Minister’s Youth Forum is scheduled for November 14, where the Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip, Minister of State for Youth Empowerment, will engage with secondary school students across St. Kitts and Nevis. This interactive session will also include participation from the Counselling Unit and the National Drug Council, emphasising the theme of mental health awareness.

As part of the celebrations, the Department of Youth Empowerment will launch a new programme titled “Pyjama Talks” on November 16. This initiative will provide a safe space for teens aged 13 to 16 to engage in mental cleansing discussions.

“We are going to have counsellors featured there because sometimes we recognise that young people do not readily understand their feelings. This is a night where we dive deep into that discussion,” stated Director Joseph, who encouraged parents and guardians to visit the department’s Facebook Page to sign up their teens for this unique event.

On November 20, in observance of the International Day of the Child, the department will recognise students through its StarBoy and StarGirl Programme, a successful initiative that debuted last year.

The month will culminate with the Annual Youth Service Reception on November 28, where the Department of Youth Empowerment expresses gratitude to sponsors and volunteers who supported their initiatives throughout 2024.

As a highlight of Youth Month, the department will introduce the Youth Christmas Wish, collaborating with The Cable to spread joy during the festive season. Director Joseph encouraged the general public to look out for the commercial soon that gives instructions for picking the names of less fortunate children off the Christmas Tree and supporting them by making everyone smile on Christmas morning.

All are invited to join the Department of Youth Empowerment in celebrating the nation’s youth and prioritising mental health throughout November.

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS – [November 1, 2024] – At a recent press conference, the Honorable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, announced that St. Kitts and Nevis is poised to achieve a historic milestone in its tourism industry. With the 2024/2025 cruise season officially underway, the Federation is projected to welcome over 1 million cruise passengers, a feat that reflects the Ministry’s sustained commitment to growth, innovation, and collaboration within the tourism sector.

This remarkable projection signifies a 22% increase in arrivals compared to the previous season and is a testament to the strategic initiatives undertaken by Minister Henderson since assuming office. Under her leadership, the Ministry has advanced numerous initiatives to make St. Kitts a premier Caribbean destination, renowned for its cultural authenticity, welcoming hospitality, and commitment to sustainability. The increased projection is the result of concerted efforts to enhance St. Kitts’ cruise infrastructure, diversify tourism offerings, and foster stronger partnerships with global cruise operators.

“This is an exciting milestone for us and underscores the effectiveness of our long-term strategies to make St. Kitts a must-visit destination in the Caribbean,” said Hon. Henderson. “Our goal is not just about increasing the number of arrivals; it’s about ensuring that every visitor has a unique and enriching experience, while also generating meaningful economic benefits for our communities. Our tourism sector is on an upward trajectory, and I am immensely proud of our team’s dedication and the collaborative efforts of our stakeholders.”

In line with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis’ vision of creating a sustainable island state, the Ministry of Tourism has prioritized measures to ensure that tourism benefits extend beyond seasonal highs and reach all corners of the community. Minister Henderson emphasized that the Ministry is actively promoting sustainable practices across the sector, demonstrated by the recent signing of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. This pledge aligns with the Federation’s Sustainable Island State Agenda and seeks to reduce tourism’s carbon footprint while preserving the Federation’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.

“The achievement of this milestone is part of a broader vision. We are building a tourism industry that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. Our focus is not only on high visitor numbers but on fostering an authentic Kittitian experience that strengthens our local economy, preserves our heritage, and uplifts our communities,” said Minister Henderson.

In her remarks, the Tourism Minister also highlighted several factors contributing to the record-breaking projection, including strategic partnerships with major cruise lines, ongoing enhancements to Port Zante, and a series of promotional efforts designed to spotlight St. Kitts’ unique attractions. The Minister also acknowledged the ongoing support from Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean, both of which have played integral roles in increasing St. Kitts and Nevis’ cruise visibility and cruise passenger arrivals.

To accommodate the expected influx, the Ministry has worked closely with local agencies to improve the guest experience on the island, including new visitor engagement initiatives at Port Zante. Enhanced offerings now feature a blend of traditional and modern Kittitian culture, from live performances to locally crafted products, creating a dynamic and memorable experience for visitors.

Kelly Fontenelle, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority expressed, “St. Kitts offers a unique combination of pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled hospitality. These attributes, along with our improved cruise infrastructure and collaboration with partners, are attracting more cruise visitors to our shores than ever before.”

Since taking office, Minister Henderson has consistently championed policies and programs that not only boost tourism but also provide long-term benefits for St. Kitts and Nevis. Her achievements include securing key international awards, such as the Green Destination of the Year and the Medallion Gold Award for eco-friendly destinations. These recognitions underscore St. Kitts and Nevis’’ commitment to sustainability and support the Federation’s vision as a leading environmentally-conscious destination.

“We are not stopping here,” stated Hon. Henderson. “Our ultimate objective is to make St. Kitts a year-round destination with a visitor experience that is second to none. Through hard work, innovative programming, and strategic partnerships, we are well on our way to realizing this goal.”

As the winter season approaches, Minister Henderson and her team remain optimistic about maintaining this momentum, with projections indicating that tourism will continue to play a pivotal role in bolstering the island’s economy. The Ministry’s robust programming and the commitment of its partners signal a prosperous future for St. Kitts’ tourism sector, as it becomes a beacon of sustainable and community-focused tourism in the Caribbean.

Basseterre: St. Kitts, Monday, October 28, 2024: It was a victorious win for the Beach Allen
Primary School on October 24, when they captured the top position in the Rotary Club of
Liamuiga Primary School Spelling Bee Competition.

At the end of several rounds, Zavier Agard out-spelled 16 other competitors earning himself
several prizes including a top prize of EC$1000.

Yanis Bowrin of the St. Kitts International Academy placed second while Kizarah Evans of the
Tyrell Williams Primary School and Zydane Thompson of the Immaculate Conception Catholic
School both shared the position for third place.

The Joshua Obadiah Williams Primary and the Tucker Clarke Primary were also among the top
six schools.

Remarks were given by Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley who commended the
Rotary Club for hosting the competition while Governor General of St. Kitts and Nevis Dame
Hon. Marcellla Liburd and Chief Education Officer Francil Morris, were in attendance showing
support.

The competition was held on World Polio Day which is organised by Rotary International and
serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and health programs in achieving a polio-free world.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2024 – The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis in the United States is pleased to announce the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) by Her Excellency Jacinth Henry-Martin, Ambassador of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the United States acting on behalf of the Federal government, with the Liamuiga Oualie Arts Foundation (LOAF), a New York-based organization dedicated to promoting the cultural heritage and artistic identity of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

This MOU represents a supportive framework for higher education for young Kittitians and Nevisians, through which LOAF will offer scholarship and mentorship opportunities to young people in Saint Kitts and Nevis to pursue academic excellence and personal growth.

LOAF, a registered organization in New York, centers its mission on celebrating and preserving Kittitian-Nevisian culture through the arts, while simultaneously inspiring a passion for learning among the youth. By promoting the Federation’s vibrant artistic expressions, LOAF also looks to organizing showcases and displays of artistry in New York, contributing to the inculcation of a grander sense of identity and purpose among young people, linking cultural pride with educational advancement.

The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis commends LOAF’s dedication to these goals and is committed to building collaboratively on this promising platform. “We are proud to support LOAF’s vision of creating pathways for education and cultural enrichment,” said Ambassador Henry-Martin. Founding Director, Michelle Rannie Esq, who signed on behalf of LOAF concurred that “this partnership will inspire a new generation to embrace learning and celebrate our heritage, fostering growth and development within our community at home and in the diaspora.”

This MOU solidifies a shared commitment to nurturing cultural pride and academic achievement, ensuring that young people in the Federation can access the resources and mentorship needed to excel. The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis looks forward to the positive impact of this collaboration and to supporting LOAF’s work going forward.

Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 31, 2024 (SKNIS): The Order Paper has been circulated for a special sitting of the National Assembly to be held at the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, Basseterre, on Wednesday, November 06, 2024, at 6:30 pm. Notice has been given.

At this Special Sitting, the Department of Youth Empowerment will present The 25 Most Remarkable Teens in St. Kitts and Nevis.

The Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip will make a statement in her capacity as Junior Minister of Youth.

The Public Business will take the form of video presentations of individual profiles followed by an Award Presentation by Members of Parliament.

The Special Sitting of the National Assembly will be carried 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 viawww.zizonline.com and the SKNIS Facebook page.

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, October 30, 2024: The Federal Cabinet of the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis (“the Cabinet”) has carefully considered and approved the recommendations from the Traffic Safety and Public Service Drivers Board (“the Board”) for an adjustment of the omnibus fare structure on St. Kitts. This decision was not taken lightly, following extensive analysis over the past year to ensure the most balanced outcome for all.

The Board’s assessment considered multiple factors, including the rise in inflation since the last fare adjustment over 16 years ago, in June 2008, the steadily increasing cost of operating omnibuses, the concessions available to omnibus operators, and the financial impact on the commuters, particularly the minimum wage earner. Although the assessment can justify a higher fare adjustment, in consideration of the financial impact on the commuters while balancing the economic realities of the omnibus operators, the new fares were limited to a maximum adjustment of XCD 1.00 across all distances. This careful compromise is essential to ensuring the sustainability of the public transport sector and the continued provision of safe and reliable omnibus services. The revised fare structure, hereto attached, will come into effect on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 12:01 AM. The fare structure is also accessible at www.trafficboard.gov.kn (https://trafficboard.gov.kn/) .

This revised fare structure is the result of extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including the Bus Associations; the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Commerce, and Consumer Affairs; and the Board, which includes representation from the Ministry of Communication, the Ministry of Tourism, the Police, Public Works, the Taxi Drivers Associations, and the Bus Associations, as required by law.

The Board extends heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders for their active participation and invaluable input throughout this process. Your cooperation and understanding have been instrumental in reaching a decision that strives to serve the best interests of our community. The Cabinet and the Board remains committed to maintaining open dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure that public transport in St. Kitts & Nevis continues to serve our community in the best possible way.

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, October 30, 2024 (SKNIS) – In a strategic move towards promoting inclusivity in national development, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis convened the Budget 2025 National Forum at the St. Kitts Marriott Ballroom today, October 30, 2024, where public, private sector, and civil society representatives were given the opportunity to share their views, insights and suggestions for consideration in shaping the 2025 National Budget.

The unique gathering of stakeholders brought to the fore invaluable insights and perspectives that will be critical as the government moves towards creating a sustainable island state, premised on innovation, inclusivity and energy transition.

Versilie Francis, Director of Fiscal Affairs and Policy Unit of the Ministry of Finance, commented on the significance of Wednesday’s forum, noting that the input gathered will go a long way in developing strategies for growth, improving efficiency in the public sector and generating long-term socio-economic progress.

“This year’s theme ‘Innovation, Inclusivity, and Sustainability: Our Path Forward’ speaks to the transformative vision that we must embrace as we strive to strengthen the foundation of our economy and shape the future for the wellbeing of our people here in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis,” said Director Francis.

In delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, said that the government is committed to fostering greater public-private sector collaboration as it works towards building a more sustainable and prosperous future for all the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

“We are here as stakeholders demonstrating our commitment to the advancement of our Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. This exercise ensures that all perspectives are documented and all voices are heard as a means of ensuring that the interests and passions of our people, young and old, are reflected in the government’s plans for the 2025 fiscal year,” said Prime Minister Dr. Drew.

Out of the national forum, Prime Minister Dr. Drew said the government intends to present a clear path forward for St. Kitts and Nevis marked by innovation, inclusivity and sustainability as the nation progresses towards a sustainable island state.

“As we embark on this journey we must create a foundation that fuels the achievements of such a vision. Innovation is at the heart of a country’s growth potential which allows for new ideas, solutions and technologies that can unlock opportunities and address the evolving challenges that we face,” the prime minister said, while noting that St. Kitts and Nevis must navigate these challenges with resilience and foresight.

Throughout the morning’s proceedings, presentations were made by representatives from the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB). During the afternoon session, the Ministry of Finance and other fields including tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure engaged in critical discussions with members of the public and private sectors, Civil society and other key stakeholders.

The floor was also opened for civil-minded members of the public to also put forward their suggestions and ideas for the overall development of the Federation.

Basseterre, Saint Kitts (October 28, 2024) – In a groundbreaking event for environmental health in Saint Kitts and Nevis, stakeholders from across the public and private sectors convened on October 23, 2024, at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort Ballroom for the inaugural National Dialogue on Indoor Air Quality: Understanding the Challenges and Finding Solutions. This landmark initiative is set to inform the development of a National Indoor Air Quality Policy, a significant step forward in protecting the health and well-being of citizens across the Federation.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Steve D. Whittaker, an acclaimed expert on air quality in the Caribbean, delivered a powerful address that resonated with attendees. He shared personal and professional experiences to underline the critical need for cleaner indoor environments, noting, “As an asthmatic with allergies, I know firsthand the challenges posed by poor air quality. A runny nose, watery eyes, and tight chest are all too familiar to me—and to many others in our Federation.”

Dr. Whittaker, reflecting on the longstanding indoor air quality challenges in the Caribbean, shared his personal memory of the 1995 eruption of the Soufrière Hills in Montserrat, where ash and pollutants traveled across the region. “Sometimes it’s impossible to keep the ‘bad air’ out. In the Caribbean, the outdoors often makes its way in, staying like an unwanted houseguest.”

As part of his presentation, Dr. Whittaker stressed the undeniable link between outdoor and indoor air pollution, especially in warm climates where windows and doors are frequently left open. He further noted that worsening climate change and higher temperatures will exacerbate the situation. “We anticipate that once indoors, our dependency on temperature control technologies like fans and air conditioning will increase, but that pollutants may stay longer in enclosed spaces, leading to heightened health risks.”

Dr. Whittaker highlighted several key contributors to poor indoor air quality, including the presence of chemicals from household products, poor ventilation, and even pollution resulting from daily activities such as cooking or cleaning. “We could be doing a much better job of monitoring, evaluating, and responding to indoor air quality issues.”

The national dialogue will serve as the foundation for a National Indoor Air Quality Task Force, which will guide the creation of policies to improve air quality in homes, schools, workplaces, and public spaces. This task force will be pivotal in collecting data, enforcing regulations, and fostering research tailored to the unique environmental conditions in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Dr. Whittaker concluded with a call to action, urging stakeholders to invest in monitoring systems and environmental stewardship. He said, “We need more local stakeholders, government and non-government, to push for more research… so we can better capture the details and dynamics of our own context here in this country.”

The event marks a significant step towards improving indoor air quality in Saint Kitts and Nevis, with wide-reaching implications for public health and well-being. The outcomes and feedback from the stakeholders involved in the national dialogue will form the basis of a future national policy, ensuring cleaner, safer indoor environments for all.

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis (October 26, 2024: PMO) – Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew delivered heartfelt remarks at the local Diwali celebrations, highlighting the significant influence of the Indian community in St. Kitts and Nevis and the power of cultural collaboration. The celebration was held on October 26th at the Marriott Hotel.

During the festivities, Prime Minister Drew expressed excitement in witnessing the Indian community come together to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, and noted that the festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and serves as a reminder of the values that bind us as a community.

“This festival beautifully showcases the resilience and spirit of the Indian community here in St. Kitts and Nevis,” said Prime Minister Drew. “Your traditions enrich our local culture, reminding us of the strength found in diversity.”

Emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding, the Prime Minister encouraged attendees to view their differences as bridges to deeper connections. He remarked, “Let us also remember that while we celebrate the uniqueness of our cultures, there’s so much we can learn from each other.”

The Prime Minister’s remarks resonated with the audience, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration among all present. He highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian community, from traditional sweets to intricate rangoli art, noting that these practices enhance the cultural tapestry of the Federation.

The Prime Minister concluded his remarks with a heartfelt wish for a happy Diwali, encouraging everyone to let the light of the festival inspire them to spread warmth and joy throughout the community.