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.