OECS AND EU OFFICIALLY HAND OVER ROYAL BASSETERRE VALLEY NATIONAL PARK ARBORETUM — OECS Media Release
On Wednesday May 13, 2026, the OECS Commission, in collaboration with the European Union and the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, officially handed over the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park Arboretum during a ceremony held under the OECS ILM Project. The initiative, funded by EU grant funding, focused on enhancing sustainable land management through the construction of perimeter fencing and the establishment of an arboretum within the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park. The protected site is located within a critical aquifer area that supplies fresh water to approximately 40% of the population of St. Kitts. Minister of Sustainable Development Hon. Joyelle Clarke stated: “This arboretum is a testament to the possibility that exists through partnership and our regional systems.” The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and a symbolic tree-planting exercise involving government officials, OECS representatives, students, community members and development partners.
SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM: SKN STEPS UP ON TRIPARTITE NATIONAL DIALOGUE — ILO News
FRIGATE BAY, Saint Kitts and Nevis (ILO News) — Saint Kitts and Nevis is moving decisively to address the future of its social security system, following a high-level Stakeholder Reform Conference convened by the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board on 21 April 2026, under the theme “Refining Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow.” Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew called for action: “The time has come for leadership, courage, and responsibility. We cannot continue to defer decisions that impact the future security of our people.” Key reform options discussed include gradual increases in contribution rates, adjustments to the pensionable age and changes to benefit formulas — practical measures aimed at balancing adequacy with long-term sustainability. ILO Caribbean Director Dr. Joni Musabayana emphasized: “Social security is not just a benefit, it is a right. Sustainable systems must be built through inclusive, evidence-based dialogue between government, employers and workers.”