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Prime Minister Drew Commends 40 Years of Financial Stewardship by the Police Co-operative Credit Union

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Prime Minister Drew Commends 40 Years of Financial Stewardship by the Police Co-operative Credit Union

Basseterre, St. Kitts (October 26, 2024: PMO) – Under the theme “Honoring Our Past, Shaping Our Future,” Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, delivered a stirring keynote address at the Police Co-operative Credit Union (PCCU) 40th Anniversary Gala, held on October 26th. Reflecting on the PCCU’s legacy of empowering the financial futures of its members, especially the men and women of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, Prime Minister Drew celebrated the Credit Union’s dedication to financial empowerment, resilience, and modernization.

“Forty years of service is no small achievement. The PCCU has proven time and time again that it is not just a financial institution but a movement—one that empowers, one that uplifts, and one that transforms lives,” Dr. Drew stated. His remarks emphasized the vital role of the PCCU in supporting the financial and personal well-being of its members and the wider community, noting the critical role of financial stability in health and professional effectiveness.

Prime Minister Drew, who also serves as Minister of National Security, commended the PCCU for aligning with the government’s goals of sustainable development and financial inclusion. He praised the PCCU’s recent advancements in digital services, such as mobile and online banking, which cater to a tech-savvy generation while sustaining the organization’s commitment to accessibility. “By expanding its membership and modernizing its services, the PCCU is positioning itself to meet the needs of a new generation, ensuring financial security for every member,” he remarked.

As a medical professional, Dr. Drew highlighted the health benefits of financial stability for those in demanding professions like law enforcement. Citing the health risks associated with chronic stress—including cardiovascular issues and mental health challenges—the Prime Minister applauded the PCCU for addressing the financial aspect of wellness, thereby promoting both the mental and physical well-being of police officers.

With the theme “Shaping Our Future,” the Prime Minister encouraged the PCCU to embrace the next wave of technological and financial changes while remaining true to its values of cooperation, service, and financial stewardship. “The PCCU stands as a beacon of stability in our financial landscape and a trusted partner in our national mission to provide financial empowerment for all,” he said.

In closing, Prime Minister Drew led a toast to the PCCU’s journey, stating, “To 40 years of service, and to the many more years of success and prosperity that lie ahead. May the PCCU continue to honor its past, shape its future, and empower its members for generations to come.”

Founded in 1984, the Police Co-operative Credit Union was established to provide financial services tailored to the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force. Over the past 40 years, it has expanded its membership to the general public, offering a range of financial services aimed at fostering community empowerment and financial independence.

Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis Celebrates Pioneering Green Energy Project to Decarbonise Basseterre Deep Water Port

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Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis Celebrates Pioneering Green Energy Project to Decarbonise Basseterre Deep Water Port

Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis Celebrates Pioneering Green Energy Project to Decarbonise Basseterre Deep Water Port

Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, October 27, 2024 – The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis proudly announces a landmark initiative to decarbonise the Basseterre Deep Water Port through a cutting-edge renewable energy project spearheaded by SYG TECH. This bold step in the nation’s pursuit of environmental sustainability aligns with the Government’s unwavering commitment to its Sustainable Island State Agenda and its goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The project will see the implementation of a renewable energy-powered microgrid, featuring SYG TECH’s innovative Vertical Axis Wind Turbine technology. This turbine, with its unique storm protection feature, is designed to withstand the severe weather conditions typical of hurricane-prone regions like Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, hailed the initiative as a major step forward in the country’s sustainability efforts.

“This project represents more than just a transition to clean energy; it is a significant leap towards our nation’s goal of becoming a global leader in sustainability,” said Dr. Drew. “The integration of innovative wind turbine technology at our Deep Water Port not only addresses our current environmental challenges but also sets a new benchmark for green infrastructure in the Caribbean.”

With the integration of SYG TECH’s wind turbine, solar energy, and storage solutions, the feasibility study indicates that the port’s microgrid has the potential to become 100% carbon neutral. The project is expected to cut approximately 46% of the port’s greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to an annual saving of 141 tonnes of CO2. This innovative solution marks a transformative shift for the port and positions it as a model for renewable energy usage in the region.

Honourable Marsha Henderson, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, International Transport, Employment, Labour, and Urban Development, also lauded the project, emphasising its importance for the air and sea ports under her purview.

“The decarbonisation of the Basseterre Deep Water Port is a monumental achievement for Saint Kitts and Nevis. By embracing cutting-edge green technology, we are not only safeguarding the environment but also future-proofing our port infrastructure against climate-related threats,” said Minister Henderson. “This project will significantly reduce emissions, improve operational efficiency, and elevate our port as a regional leader in sustainable maritime transport.”

SYG TECH’s wind turbine employs advanced technology that allows it to monitor wind speeds and enter a “storm protection” mode, closing its wings when extreme winds are detected. This tilt-down feature offers vital protection during hurricanes and storms, ensuring the equipment’s durability in a region susceptible to severe weather events.

The success of this project will not only place Saint Kitts and Nevis on the map as a forward-thinking, environmentally conscious nation, but will also serve as a beacon for other island nations seeking sustainable solutions. It is anticipated that this model will inspire future collaborations and investments in renewable energy across the region.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis congratulates all stakeholders involved in this transformative project and looks forward to the lasting environmental, economic, and social benefits it will bring to the Federation and its people.

Ambassador Vaughan Commends Humanitarian Donation by Citizens in Lebanon

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Ambassador Vaughan Commends Humanitarian Donation by Citizens in Lebanon

Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 25, 2024 (SKNIS): Ambassador His Excellency Larry Vaughan has praised the recent humanitarian aid donation made by the St. Kitts and Nevis Club Lebanon to those displaced by the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.

On Wednesday’s (October 25, 2024) edition of InFocus, Ambassador Vaughan, who heads the Regional Integration and Diaspora Unit (RIDU), noted that the club, comprised primarily of citizens through investment, is formally registered as a non-profit organisation with authorities in Lebanon. It is under this umbrella that they made the donation of clothing and supplies.

“We thank them for the work that they do because wherever our people are, whether you are a national, citizen, or descendant, we believe that there is a certain ethos that you carry with the name of St. Kitts and Nevis and that flag is proudly flown … and we are just happy that … there is that level of pride that is carried,” he stated, commending their willingness to identify other citizens and banding together.

Ambassador Vaughan added that the group is also registered with RIDU and will be celebrating the second year of the club’s existence. This celebration follows on the heels of their observance of St. Kitts and Nevis’ 41st Independence in September, 2024.

RIDU currently has 34 regional and international diaspora organisations registered.

Financial Literacy: A Key to Empowering Our Future Generations

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Financial Literacy: A Key to Empowering Our Future Generations

In St. Kitts and Nevis, October is recognized as Financial Literacy Month, a timely reminder for all of us to take financial education seriously. 

Financial management, saving skills, and smart investments are not just topics for adults but essential life skills that everyone should acquire, starting from a young age. As a society, we need to embrace this awareness and empower ourselves, particularly in preparing the next generation for the financial realities of life.

For years, there have been calls for our primary and secondary school curriculums to include financial education, and rightly so. By embedding financial management into the learning experience, we equip young people with a solid foundation for their future, setting them up for success in both life and the world of work. It is not just about numbers; it is about teaching critical life skills that can help individuals make informed decisions, avoid debt traps, and secure their financial futures.

Recently, the government made a significant stride with the launch of the ASPIRE (Achieving Success through Personal Investment, Resources, and Education) programme. Effective as of September 2024, ASPIRE is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering financial literacy, savings, and investment habits among the nation’s youth. This is an excellent move, as it helps children learn the value of money management and investments from an early age.

According to the programme’s description, ASPIRE is the first of its kind in the region. It is designed to equip young citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to build a bright financial future. 

The engaging video advertisement, featuring children dressed in their school uniform- from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions- enthusiastically endorsing the programme, highlights how much of a positive impact this could have. 

A memorable line from the advertisement, “It belongs to us; not mommy nor daddy,” resonates deeply as children recognize the value of financial independence. Another impactful line calls it a “super cool gift just for us” from the government .

As understood, as part of the ASPIRE Programme, every citizen of Saint Kitts and Nevis aged 5 to 18 will receive an EC$1,000 contribution from the government. This amount will be split into two parts: EC$500 to be deposited into a savings account at St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank, and EC$500 to be invested in shares of local government-owned entities. This innovative approach not only encourages saving but also introduces young people to the world of investments, giving them a head start in building wealth and financial security.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to take full advantage of this opportunity by learning more about the ASPIRE programme and registering their children through the official portal at aspire.gov.kn. 

No doubt, this initiative is a step in the right direction, and with community and overall parental support, it has the potential to reshape how future generations approach money management, investments and financial independence.

As we observe Financial Literacy Month, let us take this time to reflect on the importance of financial education. Remember, it is not just about money-it is about empowerment, independence and laying the groundwork for success in the years to come.

STATEMENT re: Allegations Of Non-Communication By Former Prime Minister

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STATEMENT re: Allegations Of Non-Communication By Former Prime Minister

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) wishes to address recent statements made by former Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Timothy Harris, regarding our handling of the investigation in the homicide of Azziwah ‘Milk’ Niles-Jones, and our communication with the victim’s family. We must unequivocally condemn the accusations of neglect leveled against our officers

by the former Prime Minister. These allegations not only misrepresent the facts but also

undermine the dedicated efforts of our officers who tirelessly work to resolve cases and

support affected families. Since the tragic incident on August 20th, 2024, our investigating officers established and have maintained multiple lines of communication with Mr Niles-Jones’ family. These include home visits and individual discussions with family members, some of which were rescheduled at the their request due to the extreme emotional difficulty with which they are faced. The RSCNPF acknowledges the deep pain and distress that accompanies the loss of a

loved one, particularly in tragic circumstances such as homicide. The well-being of victims’ families is a priority for our organisation, and we always do our best to ensure that they receive timely and accurate information about ongoing investigations. While we encourage open dialogue and constructive criticism, we also urge public figures to exercise strict caution in their statements, especially when they can contribute to further distress for grieving families or mislead the public about the facts.

The RSCNPF is wholly dedicated to conducting thorough investigations and ensuring that all citizens feel supported and informed throughout the process. We will remain steadfast in our mission to serve and protect our community.

Government Of St. Kitts and Nevis Condemns Attack on The Diplomatic Residence of The United Arab Emirates In Sudan

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Government Of St. Kitts and Nevis Condemns Attack on The Diplomatic Residence of The United Arab Emirates In Sudan

Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 22, 2024 (SKNIS): The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis strongly condemns the recent attack on the diplomatic residence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Sudan.

This violent breach of international diplomatic norms is a cause for deep concern, as it not only undermines the security of diplomatic missions but also threatens the broader framework of global peace and cooperation.

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis stands in solidarity with the UAE and calls for a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The safeguarding of diplomatic personnel and properties, in accordance with international law, is of paramount importance, and all parties are urged to respect the inviolability of diplomatic missions.

Additionally, the Government expresses profound concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Sudan and calls on all parties to prioritise dialogue and peaceful solutions to the current crisis. St. Kitts and Nevis remains committed to supporting international efforts aimed at restoring stability, security, and peace in Sudan.

Thoughts are with those affected by this violence, and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis reaffirms its dedication to upholding the principles of diplomacy and peace in all international relations.

Nevis Cooperative Credit Union donates smart televisions to Alexandra Hospital  and Flamboyant Nursing Home

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Nevis Cooperative Credit Union donates smart televisions to Alexandra Hospital  and Flamboyant Nursing Home

NIA CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS (October 22, 2024) –  In a gesture of community support, the Nevis Cooperative Credit Union (NCCU) has donated three Samsung smart televisions to the Alexandra Hospital and Flamboyant Nursing Home as part of the celebrations for International Credit Union Week.

During a presentation ceremony, Nekisha Warner, Senior Credit Officer at NCCU, handed over the three televisions to Hospital Administrator Gary Pemberton.

“We trust that it will add value to the workers and the patients while they are here,” she said.

Pemberton expressed profound gratitude for the donation, stating, “These smart televisions will greatly enhance the experience for both our workers and patients. They will be strategically placed in the waiting areas to provide essential information about hospital operations and what patients can expect during their visits.”

He continued, “On behalf of the staff at Alexandra Hospital and the Flamboyant Nursing Home, as well as the Ministry of Health, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the Nevis Cooperative Credit Union for this generous contribution. Your support plays a crucial role in our efforts to improve patient care and communication.”

According to the Senior Credit Officer the Nevis Cooperative Credit Union remains committed to supporting local initiatives that enhance the lives of Nevisians and looks forward to further collaborations that benefit the community.

The event was attended by key figures in the facilities’ administration, including Medical Chief of Staff Dr. Florelle Hobson; Assistant Hospital Administrator Shinnelle Browne; Matron Chandreka Persaud-Wallace, Nurse Manager at the Flamboyant Nursing Home Donna Hanley, and General Manager of NCCU Sidney Newton, along with other staff members.

International Credit Union Week, celebrated under the theme “One World Through Cooperative Finance,” underscores the vital role that credit unions play in fostering community well-being and financial literacy.

Lobby at The JNF General Hospital Fully Renovated to a More Welcoming Space For All 

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Lobby at The JNF General Hospital Fully Renovated to a More Welcoming Space For All 

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, October 22, 2024 (SKNIS) – After a year of extensive work, led by The Cable, the Foyer at the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital has been completely transformed into a more inviting and welcoming space, with enhanced lighting and significant upgrades to the overall aesthetics of the facility.

The newly renovated JNF lobby was symbolically handed over to the Ministry of Health on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, during a ceremony that was attended by members of the Federal Cabinet led by Prime Minister and Minister of Health, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, representatives from The Cable, TDC Group of Companies and other private sector partners, as well as the hospital’s management team.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Cable, Patricia Walters, indicated that the foyer renovation project was conceptualised as part of the company’s community outreach initiative for its 40th-anniversary celebrations last year.

“Many of us at one point or another would have reason to pass through the lobby on our way to visit someone in the hospital or sit and await services, so we wanted to create a pleasant waiting atmosphere so whether you are waiting on passing through it would lift your spirits and add to the pleasant experience,” CEO Walters said.

Prime Minister Dr. Drew recorded his deep appreciation to The Cable, the TDC Group of Companies, and all the other stakeholders who partnered on this worthwhile project.

Dr. Drew added that the transformation of the JNF lobby was part of the government’s broader approach to enhancing the infrastructure and improving the medical services at the facility.

“There were significant issues of leakages at this institution. We invested heavily to address that, and I want to thank the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for partnering with us on the journey to stop the leaking at JNF,” Dr. Drew said. “Here at the JNF we have one of the highest specialists per capita available in the entire OECS and I dare say the whole of CARICOM and this means that JNF is advancing. We are on a journey to re-establish St. Kitts and Nevis’ healthcare system as a premier health system in the Caribbean, and we are achieving much in a short space of time,” Prime Minister Dr. Drew added.

The JNF Foyer renovation work included the introduction of a brighter colour scheme, improved lighting, the addition of new amenities such as a canteen, installation of larger television sets, polished and revamped flooring, the addition of new signage and improved landscaping.

Rising Stars Set to Shine at the 2024-2025 Green House Band Junior Calypso Competition

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Rising Stars Set to Shine at the 2024-2025 Green House Band Junior Calypso Competition

The eagerly awaited Green House Band Junior Calypso Competition is poised to deliver another unforgettable night of vibrant culture and youthful talent, as the next generation of calypsonians take centre stage. This year’s showdown promises even more excitement, returning to the Plaza of the St. Kitts Marriott on Sunday, 15th December, at 5 PM for an evening of dazzling performances free of charge.

14 talented primary and secondary school calypsonians are gearing up to deliver powerful performances. Among them are the reigning Primary School Monarch – Mighty Zen, and reigning Secondary School Monarch – Star Boy Nicholas, who will also compete, adding to the evening’s excitement.

The participating junior calypsonians, backed by the Green House Band, are as follows:

Primary School Category

  • ● Mighty Zen (Zenobia Johnson) – Reigning Primary School Monarch (Nevis)
  • ● Chase The Dream (Chase Harding) – Nevis
  • ● Adiaha (Adiaha Inanga) – St. Kitts
  • ● Prince Khi (Roland Amaro) – St. Kitts
  • ● Sir Kalypso (Rokimba Wigley) – St. Kitts
  • ● Prince Dj (Devon Richardson) – St. Kitts
  • ● King Super Knowledge (Kenver Francis) – St. Kitts
  • Secondary School Category
  • ● Star Boy Nicholas (Nicholas Petty) – Reigning Secondary School Monarch (St. Kitts)
  • ● Mighty QJ (Quincy Isaac) – St. Kitts
  • ● Dequan (Dequan Hendrickson) – Nevis
  • ● Energetic I (Ilovely Pemberton) – St. Kitts
  • ● Mighty J (Edward Williams) – St. Kitts
  • ● Lady B (Aaliyah Buchanan) – St. Kitts
  • ● Lega-Z (Zyon Harding) – Nevis

This competition promises to be a memorable evening of culture, creativity, and musical expression as the next generation of calypsonians showcases their talent. The St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival Committee is thrilled to provide a platform for these young performers and invites everyone to come and support them.

Late Earle Clarke Honored for His Contributions to Cuba

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Late Earle Clarke Honored for His Contributions to Cuba

By: Precious Mills

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Monday 21st October 2024) – On Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, the life and legacy of the late Earle Clarke were celebrated in an emotional ceremony held near his family home in Bird Rock, Basseterre. 

Clarke, a renowned community activist, social and political commentator, and former official of the St. Kitts and Nevis Cuban Friendship Association, was posthumously awarded the Friendship Medal by the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP). This high honour recognized Clarke’s significant contributions to fostering strong ties between St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba.

Tamara Armenteros Alcee, an official of ICAP, presented the medal during her visit to the Federation. Mrs. Dorothy Clarke, widow of the late Earle Clarke, received the medal on behalf of her husband. Visibly moved, she expressed her deep gratitude for the recognition. “I am stunned to know what to say. I know that Earl loved Cuba. He loved the Cuban government. He loved the Cuban people. He loved everything Cuban,” she said with emotion, as she held the medal close.

President of the Cuba Alumni Association, Telca Wallace, read the declaration for the award. The document emphasized Clarke’s pivotal role in establishing the St. Kitts and Nevis Cuba Friendship Association and his unwavering commitment to the Cuban Solidarity Movement. Clarke was lauded as a “historical and unconditional friend of the Cuban Revolution and its social political projects initiated in 1959,” and an advocate for the Cuban cause, especially in denouncing the United States’ economic blockade against Cuba.

Mrs. Clarke, reflecting on her husband’s passion for Cuba, shared a personal story about his dedication. “He loved Cuba so much that our library has quite a few Cuban documents, Cuban writings, Cuban things. As I said, he was an avid reader. Even the—what do you call it—the Cuban Five. There is a book right there still,” she said. Her words painted a picture of a man whose love for Cuba was deeply ingrained in every aspect of his life.

Earle Clarke was a vocal supporter of the Cuban Revolution, writing numerous articles condemning the U.S. blockade on Cuba and advocating for the release of the Cuban Five. His active collaboration with the Cuban Embassy and his regular engagement with Cuban doctors and engineers further solidified his commitment to strengthening relations between St. Kitts and Cuba. Clarke’s dedication was not only in his writing but in his actions, including frequent trips to Cuba, attending May Day parades, and holding exchanges with ICAP officials.

Mrs. Clarke’s heartfelt tribute also revealed a personal connection that extended even to their family. “He loved Fidel. Our third daughter is named Fidela…and she is over 40 years old, so you could see how long he looked out for the cause of Cuba. You know, he was all Cuban. There wasn’t anybody who could say anything against Cuba for him,” she noted with pride. 

The *Friendship Medal*, proposed in 2023 under Presidential Decree 642 by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, is a distinguished honor that recognizes individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to international solidarity with Cuba. Clarke’s posthumous award is a testament to his enduring legacy as a champion of social justice and solidarity.

During the ceremony, Cuban Ambassador to St. Kitts and Nevis, David Rivero, and his wife presented Mrs. Clarke with a bouquet of flowers, marking the occasion with respect and admiration. 

President of the Cuba Alumni Association, Telca Wallace, spoke passionately about Earle Clarke’s unique character and his contribution to the Cuban cause. She remarked, “This is a very, very important declaration, and I don’t think there are many persons in the world who have received this. And so, I’m glad the Labour Spokesman is here because Mr. Clarke was a prolific writer for the Labour Spokesman. I think Mr. Clarke was such a unique individual, and many of these quality of persons do not come around in one generation. And he was able to live through several generations.”

Wallace reflected on Clarke’s resilience and dedication to his work: “Even though he was incapacitated, he climbed the stairs with his wheelchair up and down. He made sure he got into Basseterre on a regular basis just so that he could make people feel good by saying, ‘Hello, beautiful lady. Hello, handsome gentleman.’ He also went to the hospital on a regular basis, and when he got to the hospital, he would visit everyone and he would cheer up persons who were down.”

She concluded her remarks with a deeply personal acknowledgment of Clarke’s commitment: “In our association, Mr. Clarke was my right hand and my left hand because anything we had to do, he would participate fully. And he was committed, publicly and privately, to the Cuban Revolution. For that, I am very happy that even though he’s not here, I think his spirit is here, and the person who sacrificed the most beside him was his wife. And that she is able to receive the award—so all is well.”

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