Got NEWS? Email Us
Subscribe
Search
Home Blog Page 60

Empowering Farmers for a Sustainable Tomorrow!

Admin
-
0
Empowering Farmers for a Sustainable Tomorrow!

Basseterre, March 1st 2024 (MDS) –The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Marine Resources proudly highlights the outcomes of its recent annual review and strategic planning session, heralding a new era of agricultural empowerment and sustainability in St. Kitts and Nevis. This year’s meeting underscored the unwavering commitment and dedication of local farmers, pivotal in propelling us toward the ambitious 2025 sustainability goals and beyond.

In line with our vision for sustainable agriculture, we have taken concrete steps towards supporting our farmers. Recently, we distributed 3000 tomato seedlings to esteemed farmers Winston Morris, Leonard Herbert, and Franklyn Mitcham, bringing us closer to our vision of sustainable agriculture. Each seed planted signifies progress towards a brighter future, demonstrating that our farmers are not just prepared but eager to lead the charge.

At the heart of our agenda lies a detailed work plan encapsulated in our 25 by 25 initiative under the overarching theme ‘Securing our future for sustainable agriculture through partnerships by 2025 and beyond.’ This initiative is a challenge, one that our farmers have wholeheartedly embraced and expressed their gratitude to the ministry for driving progress in the agricultural sector. Mr. Winston Morris, a member of the Consortium, expressed their readiness for the challenge, stating, “We’ve been waiting for challenges from the Ministry of Agriculture, challenge us, throw something on us and see. Test us. Test our mettle and you’ll see that we are not backing down. We are stepping up to the plate. We will do it and we will do the best we can do.”

Equipped with essential resources such as ground cover, drip lines, water tanks, solar energizers, and valuable guidance from the ministry, our farmers stand poised to achieve the 25 by 25 agenda. Their determination coupled with strategic support sets the stage for a transformative journey towards sustainable agriculture.

As we move forward, let us continue to foster collaboration, innovation, and empowerment within our farming communities. Together, we can cultivate a resilient agricultural sector that not only sustains but thrives for generations to come.

Vacancy – Database Administrator

Admin
-
0
Vacancy – Database Administrator
Database_Administrator_Job_description

Vacancy – Livestock Extension Officer (Small Ruminants)

Admin
-
0
Vacancy – Livestock Extension Officer (Small Ruminants)
JOB_VACANCY_Ministry_of_Agriculture

Teach Our Children Sportsmanship By Example

Admin
-
0
Teach Our Children Sportsmanship By Example

Track and field season here in St.Kitts-Nevis and in other countries generally creates an atmosphere of encouragement and support for our children.

A recent episode at a sporting event for primary school athletes unfortunately set a different tone; not by the children but by some of the parents who apparently were in verbal disagreement with accusations of cheating which created quite a stir of public debate.

It is one thing to fight battles for our children when we feel that they have been wronged but it is also quite contrary when parents display poor behaviour when our children are looking on. After all, parents/guardians are seen generally as role models for our children which means positive teachable moments for our future leaders must be displayed and encouraged at all times.

We all know that children are like sponges in soaking up behaviours they witness whether positive or negative. Hence, a heated open argument by parents levelled against sports officials conveyed a message of conflict in tarnishing what should have been a celebration of sportsmanship. It is quite disheartening that such a moment created an atmosphere of tension

Sports meet should see children experiencing the joy of participation, learning the value of teamwork and embracing the essence of fair play and discipline. Therefore, there is no doubt that when parents/guardians participate in such visible disputes it takes away from the opportunity to communicate valuable life lessons about sportsmanship.

As parents/guardians and others alike, it is important to reflect on that past incident and commit to doing better and being better as a community in setting a positive example for our youths. And furthermore in doing so remember the responsibility of parents/guardians in shaping the character of future generations.

On the flip side, a positive highlight moment at a primary school meet at the Nevis Academy Sports Grade 5 male 100m finals saw the winner of the race  immediately running back to assist a fellow competitor after realizing that he fell on the track. The young man has been showered with praise on social media (particularly via video footage from Mulley Media) for his sportsmanship.  Kudos indeed to that young athlete and all those who are instrumental in his upbringing.

In that situation, a child showed a wonderful example about sportsmanship and leadership. 

Let us run with every opportunity to teach and nurture the minds of our little ones, leading by example through actions and words.

Attorney General Defends Senior Parliamentary Officials Salary Pay Scale Adjustment Following 19-Year Gap

Admin
-
0
Attorney General Defends Senior Parliamentary Officials Salary Pay Scale Adjustment Following 19-Year Gap

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Thursday 29th February 2024)- Attorney General Garth Wilkin has given reasoning for the government closing the 19-year gap since senior parliamentary officials received a salary increase, noting in part that some senior public servants, including permanent secretaries and some directors, are paid a higher salary than the ministers they report to.

“It is wholly unacceptable, Madam Speaker, that for 19 years, while public servants received salary increases of 41%; 41% which they deserve, and which mirrors inflation, and which is right, during that 19 years, ministers of government received no salary increases at all,” he said during his presentation in the National Assembly on Thursday 22nd February 2024 ahead of the adoption of the resolution to accept recommendations of the 2019 Salaries Review Commission, effective 1st March.

“It is wholly unacceptable, Madam Speaker, that in 2024, senior public servants, including permanent secretaries and some directors, are paid a higher salary than the ministers they report to. It is wholly unacceptable that the salary of the financial secretary, even though well-earned, she works hard, one of the most senior public servants, is 24% higher than that of a minister.”

“It is wholly unacceptable that the salary of a middle manager or supervisor in a back office in the private sector is making more than that of a minister. We cannot accept those bizarre realities just for the sake of politics. The overriding priority of this administration is to serve the taxpayers, with the most committed and able people to serve with an unwavering commitment to their country.”

According to the Attorney General: “We are here to do the good that we can do for the people. This A-Team is therefore made up of young professional ministers in their prime, even a senior minister, who has found a fountain of youth in the foreign ministry; lots of energy. We all have energy and vigor, as we go about the people’s business. No one is falling asleep on the job, like it was the usual in the past. No one is leaving work early to go to the bar, like it was the usual in the past…All of us are working diligently and tirelessly to ensure that we build a St.Kitts and Nevis for all our people to be proud of.”

He continued: “So naturally, the compensation for hard work should be proportionate. How can the status quo be fair when the Deputy Prime Minister with a PhD in leadership and management, is paid a salary equivalent to his chief education officer, and less than his PS, both of whom report to him? How can the status quo be fair when the senior minister is being paid a salary of 24% less than the financial secretary? How can the status quo be fair when the Caribbean Tourism Minister of the Year is being paid $8,500 when her tourism authority CEO, who reports to her…”

AG Wilkin pointed out that earlier that day, a report dated September 30th, 2019, as was prepared by the Salaries Review Commission, pursuant to the responsibilities contained in the Salaries Review Commission Act, Cap 22.14.

“The Commission is tasked to make recommendations to the government with respect to the salaries and other conditions of service of the Governor General, members of Parliament, including the Speaker of the House, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Prime Minister, Attorney General, Ministers of Government, and the Leader of the Opposition, etc.”

Additionally, he highlighted that in 2018, the first formal Salaries Review Commission was established, and that the report was prepared and submitted to the then Prime Minister [Dr. Timothy Harris].

Such details, as shared by him, were brought to the attention of the present Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew by the late Governor General Sir Tapley Seaton.

“It was, however, not tabled in the National Assembly, nor, as we discovered in this Honorable House, was it tabled in the then Cabinet. When we took office, the then Governor General, God bless his soul, the late Sir Tapley Seaton, KC, brought the report to the attention of the Prime Minister, who then brought it to the attention of the Cabinet, and now it is tabled in the National Assembly, as required by the Act. This is the procedural history of the 2019 report, Madam Speaker.”

As pointed out by AG Wilkin, given the legal nature of the report, the Prime Minister [Dr. Terrance Drew] has tasked the lawyers in the AGO, the Attorney General’s Office, to review it, examine regional similarities, and educate the public on how this important process works.

The Drew-led administration took office in August 2022.

SKNT&LU Plans Online Campaign Leading Up To International Workers Day

Admin
-
0
SKNT&LU Plans Online Campaign Leading Up To International Workers Day

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Thursday 29th February 2024)-Workers’ representative organisation, the St.Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNT&LU) is currently in its preparation and planning stage to spearhead an online campaign leading up to International Workers’ Day, also known as Labour Day and May Day, observed yearly in most countries (including the Federation) on the first Monday in the month of  May.

“Our Union is quite excited about the upcoming campaign, and our members, workers of this country and the public on a whole will get more details in short order as it relates to the online activities to be celebrated under the theme ‘Workers Matter First’,” Union General Secretary Precious Mills said during a chit chat with this media house on Thursday 29th February 2024.

According to her: “This week, our Union started interacting with workers from various sectors in getting their views on camera as part of our online activities, and so this is definitely something special to look forward to which of course includes social media highlights.”

According to her, the Union is eager to occupy the digital space in such an innovative and inclusive campaign.

“The SKNT&LU has been in existence for over eight decades having been founded in May 1940, and our executive is cognizant of the fact that we are operating in this digital era, and so we have to roll with the times of technology in keeping in touch and reaching our membership base and attracting new members as well. We look forward to the upcoming campaign as a grand opportunity to engage with workers and highlight achievements through interactive and educational ways.”

Union Member Venus  Tucker, one of the participants, has expressed words of encouragement to the union.

SKNT&LU Member Venus Tucker- on Wednesday 28th February 20024-shares her sentiments as part of the online campaign preparation (Spokesman Snap)

“As the Union is currently being restructured and becoming better; better service towards people (workers) of lesser fortune, as a member would like to express my thanks and appreciation to the union for standing with me, standing up for me and standing against injustice for all of us. I also wish the union well in the future endeavors going forward; all the best. And may every worker’s case to come across the union’s desk be a successful one.”

International Workers’ Day,  which is a public holiday, will be celebrated on Monday 6th May 2024.

“STOP CRYING…”

Admin
-
0
“STOP CRYING…”

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Wednesday 28th February 2024)- On topic of mental well-being, Clinical Mental Health Counsellor and President of the St.Kitts Mental Health Association Zahra Jacobs, is calling on society to be more mindful, particularly in how boys are taught and told how to express their emotions.

Making an appearance on Freedom FM’s ‘From a Man’s Point Of View’- hosted under the theme ‘Depression & Mental Health- aired live on Monday 26th February 2024, the mental health expert placed a spotlight on the message that young boys often receive when displaying emotions- “Stop crying, man up.”

Clinical Mental Health Counsellor and President of the St. Kitts Mental Health Association Zahra Jacobs

Jacobs during her sentiments examined how from an early age, society’s conditioning instructs boys to mask their feelings, and instead  present a tough exterior in hiding emotions like sadness and distress while anger is often acceptable for emotional expression.

“When we see our boys crying, we say, ‘Oh, stop crying. Man up. Man up’…You are being taught very early on to mask your feelings. If you feel badly, put on another face. And the one face that we tend to accept readily from boys is anger,” the counselor expressed.

She continued: “We are saying, ‘Don’t be sad, don’t be distressed but you know what? Be angry. Fight it out. Get it out.’ Like, that is what we say. And we say it without thinking about it. ‘Stop crying, Man up.’ Like, just be different. We are telling children very early on, be different. Don’t act like how you feel or how you feel is wrong. So that is something that we have to be mindful of.”

Jacobs highlighted that the impact of such societal conditioning extends beyond childhood, affecting individuals as they navigate adulthood. 

“And you know, when men tell boys to do that, they’re trying to protect them from people reacting to them, right? Sometimes they’re just like, ‘If he’s crying, people are going to beat him up. They’re going to think he’s soft’ and look how it’s going to happen. And then it just becomes a cycle in and of itself. So this is a challenge we have to face, like in schools, as parents, in our community because you know, it might not, you might be doing a good job with your child, but they’re getting a million messages when they set out your door.”

Jacobs, during her remarks, alluded to the need for a shift in societal norms, advocating for a more inclusive approach to emotional expression for boys and men. 

 She mentioned general changes in behavior which indicates mental health struggles which persons close to an individual should pay attention to. As understood from her, in attempts of coping with such challenges, some people withdraw from social activities while on the flip side some people start going out a lot as well as altered eating habits whether eating more or less, negative talking and changes in personal appearance.

 “[Pay] attention to changes in behavior…whether a person has stopped going out and that’s not what they’re doing. Sometimes you might see it in people who never used to go out and because they’re just looking to feel something, now all of a sudden they’re out and they want to be in  things and that’s because they’re struggling with what’s going on inside.”

“Sometimes it’s changing their eating habits. So if you find that the person is, all of a sudden, they’re eating all the time or they’ve gained a lot of weight that might be a sign that they’re struggling with depression. For some people, it’s the exact opposite. They’ve stopped eating, right? And you see them losing weight and, you know…It might be dieting, but sometimes it’s not, right? Sometimes they just have stopped eating. So if you’re close to the person, you can pay attention to that kind of thing. Another thing, and I know this is kind of basic but they start to just say very negative things; there’s a hopelessness about them…,” she stated.  

Jacobs went on to say: “So if this is a person who used to, like, you know, look sharp all the time and you realize, you know, they haven’t gone -fade in a while… All of a sudden, they’re not quite exactly how they used to be. They used to be interested in how they look and all of that has changed.”

In relationships whether romantic and friendship, it is understood that shifts in behaviour such as increased substance use may be indicative of underlying emotional challenges.

“I would even say for people who are in relationships and this could be a friendship, too, if they started drinking or smoking or other pilling, whatever things, more than they used to,” Jacobs said.

Options for seeking counselling outreach include the National Counseling Center at contact numbers 465-5000 and 662-8086, and also the St. Kitts Mental Health Association Facebook page for a listing of providers.

​​2024 Review and Planning Meeting Sets Stage for the Development of a Sustainable Agriculture Sector in St. Kitts and Nevis

Admin
-
0
​​2024 Review and Planning Meeting Sets Stage for the Development of a Sustainable Agriculture Sector in St. Kitts and Nevis

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, February 27, 2024 (SKNIS) – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, with input from its key stakeholders and partners, charted a clear path towards the buildout of a sustainable agricultural sector in St. Kitts and Nevis, through innovation and partnerships.

This was laid out during the ministry’s Annual Review and Planning Meeting 2024, held at the Department of Agriculture’s Conference Room today, Tuesday, February 27, 2024. This year’s review and planning meeting was held under the theme, “Securing our Future for Sustainable Agriculture through Partnerships by 2025, and Beyond”.

The event saw comprehensive reviews of the ministry’s achievements and initiatives throughout the year 2023, underscored by the crucial steps taken to advance the 25 by 2025 Agenda—a bold initiative that seeks to significantly reduce the Federation’s food import bill by 25 percent by the year 2025.

Delivering remarks at the opening ceremony, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, Miguel Flemming stated that Tuesday’s exercise was important, as it provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments, assess challenges and chart a course for development in this vital sector.

“As we stand at the threshold of a new era, characterized by evolving environmental, economic and social dynamics, the importance of strategic collaboration and forward-thinking approaches cannot be overstated. The theme of this year’s meeting underscores the fundamental principle that the journey towards sustainable agriculture is one that must be undertaken collectively,” Permanent Secretary Flemming stated, highlighting that the annual event was attended by a wide cross-section of stakeholders from both the private and public sectors.

Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Samal Duggins, commented that the development of a sustainable agriculture sector hinges upon the Federation’s ability to adopt new and innovative practices and embracing technological advancements.

“By investing in research, innovation and capacity-building initiatives, we can enhance the productivity and competitiveness of our livestock sector while safeguarding the health and well-being of our livestock population,” Minister Duggins said.

With regards to the fisheries sector, the honourable minister said it is imperative that stakeholders embrace sustainable management practices that balance the conservation of marine resources with the socio-economic needs of the fishing community. He said, “Through the implementation of science-based fisheries management strategies, the promotion of responsible fishing practices and the establishment of marine protected areas we can ensure the long-term viability of our fisheries sector and preserve our marine ecosystems for our future generations.”

Minister Duggins said this approach also holds true for improving crop production in St. Kitts and Nevis. He contended that farmers must harness the power of innovation and technology “to enhance agricultural productivity”, noting that “we must also improve resilience to climate change and promote food security as well as nutrition security.”

During the presentations and deliberations, a number of partner agencies and institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continue their partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources going forward.

Healthcare Veteran Mary Miller Sallah to Begin On-Site Evaluation at J.N.F. Hospital as Part of Accreditation Efforts

Admin
-
0
Healthcare Veteran Mary Miller Sallah to Begin On-Site Evaluation at J.N.F. Hospital as Part of Accreditation Efforts

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, February 26, 2024 [Ministry of Health] – Today marks the beginning of a significant phase in the J.N.F. Hospital’s path towards accreditation, with Mrs. Mary Miller Sallah, a distinguished professional with 14 years of experience in healthcare operations, health system transformation, and quality improvement, initiating a week-long on-site visitation. This visit is a critical component of the ongoing assessment efforts aimed at achieving accreditation status for the hospital.

Mrs. Miller Sallah, known for her substantial contributions to healthcare institutions across the region, including in Antigua and the British Virgin Islands, begins her consultation process at J.N.F. Hospital with a strategic meeting involving the hospital’s administration and key health sector stakeholders. This meeting, held this morning in the J.N.F. conference room, sets the stage for a series of discussions focused on identifying gaps, setting timelines, and outlining the necessary steps, opportunities, and risks associated with the accreditation journey.

The quest for accreditation of the J.N.F. General Hospital is a prime objective spearheaded by the Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Dr. Terrance Drew, with Dr. Theodore Hanley serving as the special advisor to the Ministry of Health for Accreditation. This initiative underscores the commitment to enhancing the quality and standards of healthcare services provided to the community.

While Mrs. Miller Sallah’s initial visit is scheduled for one week, her engagement with the J.N.F. Hospital is part of a long-term collaboration aimed at supporting the institution’s continuous improvement efforts. This endeavor reflects the dedication of all involved parties to achieving a standard of excellence that benefits patients and the wider community.

J.N.F. General Hospital Welcomes Key Additions to Its Staff

Admin
-
0
J.N.F. General Hospital Welcomes Key Additions to Its Staff

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, February 26, 2024, [Ministry of Health] – J.N.F. General Hospital proudly announces the addition of three new crucial members to its esteemed staff, further enhancing its ability to provide top-tier care and services to the community. These new additions bolster critical areas of patient care, ranging from psychological support to laboratory diagnostics and human resources management.

Dr. Dorothy Francis-Jefferson, a distinguished Clinical Psychologist, brings a wealth of expertise to the psychology department. With a pHd in Clinical Psychology from California Southern University, coupled with backgrounds in accounting, computer information systems, and project management, Dr. Francis-Jefferson is well-equipped to provide comprehensive counseling services. Her presence will not only benefit the hospital staff but also extend support to patients and their families, contributing significantly to the mental health and well-being of individuals across the federation.

Mrs. Zulema Escalona Cabrera, Cyto-histotechnologist, arrives at J.N.F. General Hospital with invaluable experience from the Cuban embassy. Her role is pivotal in expanding the capabilities of our laboratory, particularly in the preparation of histology slides crucial for accurate diagnoses from patient biopsies. With her expertise, the hospital reinstates in-house histopathology studies, reinstating a critical service that sets J.N.F. Hospital apart as a leader in diagnostic capabilities within the country.

Ms. Keisha Fough assumes the role of Human Resources Officer, a position essential for managing the diverse needs of over 500 employees within the Institution-Based Health Services. Recognizing the necessity for in-house H.R. management, Ms. Fough’s appointment signifies a crucial step towards addressing staff-related issues efficiently and effectively.

“These additions to our team reflect our ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and scope of healthcare services we provided at J.N.F.,” said Director of Health Institutions, Dr Jenson Morton. “Each new member brings unique skills and experiences that will contribute to the well-being of both our patients and our staff. We are excited to welcome them to the J.N.F. family and look forward to the positive impact they will make.”

These new additions underscore J.N.F. General Hospital’s commitment to excellence in patient care and organizational management. Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to the hospital’s mission of providing compassionate and comprehensive healthcare services to the community. 

1...596061...320Page 60 of 320