From Zero Maternal Deaths to Water Security: Dr Terrance Drew Details Key Developments  – WIC News

In a landmark address during the ‘Their Own Table’ roundtable conference, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St Kitts and Nevis unveiled transformative national achievements across healthcare, water security, and public infrastructure. The federation celebrated zero maternal deaths throughout 2025—a historic milestone attributed to systemic healthcare reforms rather than statistical anomaly.

Dr. Drew detailed the implementation of a coordinated pregnancy monitoring system that tracks expectant mothers across both public and private healthcare providers. This initiative designates nurses and midwives as patient stewards who ensure follow-up care for high-risk pregnancies, particularly when appointments are missed. Complementing this effort, the government established a dedicated financial support fund to assist women requiring specialized care.

Healthcare advancements continue with the near-completion (95-96%) of the nation’s first MRI facility. This highly specialized infrastructure required local builders to adapt to stringent technical standards. Once operational, the facility will eliminate the need for overseas diagnostic travel for advanced medical imaging.

Beyond healthcare, the Prime Minister highlighted water security as a cornerstone of national resilience. The government’s first publicly owned desalination plant, representing an investment of EC$50-60 million, already produces two million gallons of potable water daily. Scheduled for official commissioning shortly, the plant forms part of a comprehensive water strategy including new well development and ongoing drilling operations. Dr. Drew emphasized the heavily subsidized nature of water services and urged citizens to maintain bill payments to support infrastructure reinvestment.

In a significant land acquisition, the government secured 77.23 acres of prime Frigate Bay real estate—including the golf course, clubhouse, and operating company—through the Citizenship by Investment program using fewer than 800 units. The development plan prioritizes residential and commercial lots for young citizens, with a portion overlooking Half Moon Bay designated for high-value development including luxury villas and potential hotel investment.

The Prime Minister concluded by affirming the federation’s positive trajectory and promising additional advancements in the near future.