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标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

圣基茨和尼维斯

  • St. Kitts and Nevis adds biometric verification to Citizenship by Investment program | Biometric Update

    St. Kitts and Nevis adds biometric verification to Citizenship by Investment program | Biometric Update

    The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has announced a significant upgrade to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, implementing mandatory biometric data collection for all new applicants. The new security protocol, scheduled for implementation before the conclusion of Q1 2026, will require fingerprint and facial biometric verification as part of the application process.

    Executive Chairman of the Citizenship Unit, H.E. Calvin St. Juste, emphasized that this biometric initiative demonstrates the nation’s “unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity and reputation of St. Kitts and Nevis as a responsible global partner.” The enhanced security measures aim to align the Federation’s travel documents with international civil aviation and border security standards, mirroring biometric protocols already established in the European Union, United States, and United Kingdom.

    Notably, the biometric requirement extends beyond new applicants to include existing citizens who obtained nationality through the CBI program, though they will benefit from an extended transition period. Native-born nationals remain exempt from these new verification requirements.

    The technological advancement follows a November visit by a Taiwan Technical Mission that engaged with stakeholders to advance the Digital Identity Authentication Project. This initiative forms a crucial component of the nation’s e-government roadmap, establishing a secure, standards-based digital identity infrastructure to support smart governance and trusted online services.

    The Citizenship Unit has committed to providing detailed guidance to both applicants and existing program citizens in the coming weeks, ensuring a smooth transition to the enhanced verification system.

  • Four sentenced to prison for attempted RAMS supermarket robbery in Nevis

    Four sentenced to prison for attempted RAMS supermarket robbery in Nevis

    In a decisive judicial ruling, four individuals have been incarcerated for their roles in an attempted armed robbery at RAMS Supermarket in Nevis that occurred in August 2023. The Charlestown High Court delivered sentences ranging from eight to nine years following convictions on multiple criminal charges.

    The convicted perpetrators include Tarique Hanley of Hull Ground, Nevis, who received nine years for two counts of Assault with Intent to Rob plus one count of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery. His accomplices—T’quan Pennyfeather (Conaree Village/Monkey Hill), Kennedy Rodriguez (Pine Gardens, Shadwell), and Lukelly Carmichael (Morning Star, Nevis)—were similarly convicted on three counts of Assault with Intent to Rob. Pennyfeather and Rodriguez received nine-year terms, while Carmichael was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment.

    Court documents reveal the brazen nature of the daytime criminal attempt, which unfolded on August 19, 2023, at approximately 2:30 PM. Five armed assailants stormed the supermarket premises, physically assaulting a security guard with an umbrella while demanding cashiers open registers. Despite their aggressive tactics, the perpetrators failed to access any monetary assets and ultimately aborted the operation.

    The failed heist concluded with the suspects commandeering a customer’s vehicle parked near the entrance to facilitate their escape. Law enforcement authorities immediately initiated pursuit operations, culminating in a vehicular collision in the Brown Hill area. Three suspects were apprehended at the crash scene, while a fourth was captured shortly thereafter through coordinated police efforts. The fifth accomplice remains at large according to latest investigative reports.

    Nevis Police Commissioner emphasized that no assets were stolen from the establishment during the incident, praising the swift response of officers that prevented potential escalation of violence. The sentencing demonstrates the judicial system’s firm stance against organized criminal activities that threaten community safety and commercial security.

  • St Kitts tourism reports 6% growth in 2025, sets sights on 2026 – WIC News

    St Kitts tourism reports 6% growth in 2025, sets sights on 2026 – WIC News

    The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has announced a landmark achievement in its tourism sector, reporting a robust 6% increase in visitor arrivals for 2025. This growth solidifies the dual-island nation’s position as an emerging powerhouse within the competitive Caribbean tourism market.

    Official data reveals the destination welcomed 168,838 air arrivals throughout the year, with particularly strong performance recorded during the first quarter. This sustained interest is attributed to a multi-faceted strategy combining strategic marketing, global visibility campaigns, and significant public-private sector collaboration.

    Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson emphasized the transformative nature of this growth, stating, ‘Our success transcends mere statistics. We are fundamentally creating economic opportunities for our citizens, strengthening our entire tourism ecosystem, and establishing a foundation for long-term, sustainable development.’

    The St. Kitts Tourism Authority executed three highly targeted marketing campaigns designed to appeal to specific traveler demographics: ‘Adventure’ for thrill-seekers, ‘Summer Unscripted’ highlighting events and activities, and the ‘Do Not Disturb’ global romance initiative.

    International recognition followed these efforts, with the destination securing prestigious awards including ‘Sustainable Destination of the Year’ from Caribbean Journal and ‘Hidden Treasures Destination of the Year’ from PATWA. Minister Henderson was personally honored as ‘Woman Tourism Minister of the Year’ by both PATWA and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

    The nation’s global media initiatives generated an extraordinary 5.7 billion impressions, significantly enhancing brand visibility. Key highlights included a dedicated ‘St. Kitts Week’ feature on NBC 6 and a strategic partnership with Chelsea footballer Cole Palmer, who visited his ancestral homeland, generating substantial positive publicity.

    Additional 2025 developments included the launch of a collaborative jewelry collection with Canadian brand bluboho, the implementation of a new digital eTA entry system, and the establishment of the nation’s first Travel Advisor Board.

    Looking forward, St. Kitts has set an ambitious target of achieving 10% growth in visitor arrivals for 2026. The strategy involves refining marketing approaches from broad geographic targeting to focused niche engagement and further strengthening regional partnerships with other Caribbean nations.

  • Magnitude 3.7 Earthquake Recorded Near Antigua Early Saturday Morning

    Magnitude 3.7 Earthquake Recorded Near Antigua Early Saturday Morning

    A minor seismic event measuring 3.7 on the Richter scale occurred in proximity to the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda during the early hours of Saturday morning. The earthquake’s epicenter was located near the islands, though precise geographical coordinates remain unspecified in initial reports.

    The tremor, while measurable by seismic instruments, appears to have caused minimal disruption to the twin-island nation. Early indications suggest no significant structural damage or injuries resulting from the geological activity. Earthquakes of this magnitude typically produce noticeable shaking of indoor items and rattling noises but rarely cause substantial damage to well-constructed buildings.

    The Eastern Caribbean region, where Antigua and Barbuda are situated, experiences frequent seismic activity due to its position along the boundary of the Caribbean and North American tectonic plates. This geological setting makes minor tremors a relatively common occurrence throughout the region.

    Local authorities and disaster preparedness agencies routinely monitor such seismic events, though no tsunami warnings were issued following this particular incident. Residents reported feeling mild vibrations but otherwise described the event as passing without major concern.

    The timing of the earthquake—during early morning hours—likely contributed to the limited public reaction, as many residents were asleep when the tremor occurred. Seismologists continue to monitor the region for potential aftershocks, though none have been reported thus far.

  • 50th CARICOM Heads of Gov’t Meeting Convenes in St. Kitts and Nevis in February

    50th CARICOM Heads of Gov’t Meeting Convenes in St. Kitts and Nevis in February

    The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is poised to convene its historic 50th Regular Meeting of Heads of Government from February 24-27, 2026, in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis. This landmark summit represents a significant milestone in regional cooperation, bringing together leaders from across the Caribbean basin to address pressing regional challenges and opportunities.

    Under the leadership of current CARICOM Chairman Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the assembly will operate under the transformative theme “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM.” This thematic focus emphasizes the critical need for concrete implementation of regional initiatives rather than mere dialogue.

    The comprehensive agenda features multifaceted discussions on climate financing mechanisms, regional food security strategies, enhanced security cooperation, transportation infrastructure development, and the ongoing pursuit of reparations for historical injustices. These priority areas reflect the most urgent concerns facing Caribbean nations in the contemporary geopolitical landscape.

    The summit will welcome distinguished international participants, including Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir and Afreximbank President George Elombi, signaling CARICOM’s expanding global partnerships and diplomatic reach. Their participation underscores the growing international recognition of CARICOM’s strategic importance in global affairs.

    This golden anniversary gathering provides a pivotal platform for Caribbean leaders to consolidate regional integration efforts, strengthen collective bargaining power on the international stage, and chart a coordinated course toward sustainable development and economic resilience. The outcomes of this quadrennial meeting are expected to shape regional policy directions for the foreseeable future, potentially establishing new frameworks for multilateral cooperation and resource mobilization across the Caribbean community.

  • Dominica Cricket Academy Receives $67,500 Boost from St Kitts & Nevis Patriots – DBS Radio

    Dominica Cricket Academy Receives $67,500 Boost from St Kitts & Nevis Patriots – DBS Radio

    In a significant move to bolster Caribbean cricket development, the Dominica Cricket Academy (DCA) has secured a substantial financial contribution of $67,500 from the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots franchise. The investment, facilitated by Patriots director Mahesh Ramani, reinforces an ongoing collaborative partnership dedicated to strengthening cricket infrastructure and talent cultivation on the island.

    Senator Oscar George, Minister of State in the Ministry of Sports, formally acknowledged the contribution, emphasizing the academy’s critical role as Dominica’s premier cricket development program. “This partnership represents a shared commitment to sporting excellence,” stated Senator George. “The academy serves as our primary mechanism for identifying, nurturing, and developing the next generation of elite cricketing talent while promoting sustained competitive excellence.”

    The funding is strategically allocated to support the academy’s operational sustainability and program expansion initiatives. This financial boost will directly enhance training facilities, coaching resources, and competitive opportunities for young athletes. The investment underscores a growing trend of cross-territory collaboration within the Caribbean Premier League ecosystem, where established franchises actively support emerging talent pipelines in neighboring nations.

    This development signals a strengthened commitment to regional sports development, potentially creating a model for other CPL franchises to contribute to cricket’s grassroots growth across the West Indies.

  • St Kitts Travel Tuesdays return with nonstop flights and round-trip fares from USD 288  – WIC News

    St Kitts Travel Tuesdays return with nonstop flights and round-trip fares from USD 288  – WIC News

    The St. Kitts Tourism Authority has strategically relaunched its ‘Travel Tuesdays’ promotion, offering competitively priced nonstop flights to enhance accessibility to the dual-island nation. Effective January 27, 2026, and continuing every Tuesday, the initiative provides round-trip fares beginning at just $288 USD on key regional and international routes.

    Tourism officials emphasize that direct air connectivity serves as a critical catalyst for visitor growth, particularly during peak travel seasons when passengers prioritize efficiency and convenience. The promotion specifically targets both Caribbean regional travelers and visitors from the United States, positioning St. Kitts as an easily accessible destination.

    Multiple airline partners are participating with limited-time offers: WINair offers a $288 round-trip between Bridgetown, Barbados and St. Kitts (February 7-14); American Airlines provides a $299 fare from New York’s JFK International (February 21-28); Caribbean Airlines connects Antigua and St. Kitts for $299 (April 20-27); and WINair’s additional $316 option links Dominica to St. Kitts (February 9-15).

    The intentionally restricted booking windows are designed to create urgency and accelerate decision-making among potential visitors. Through its official social media channels, the Tourism Authority encouraged immediate action, stating: ‘If you’ve been awaiting the optimal moment to plan your next journey, this is it. Nonstop flights significantly enhance accessibility to St. Kitts.’

    Industry stakeholders confirm that such targeted promotional mechanisms effectively convert traveler interest into confirmed bookings, supporting overall tourism growth and economic development for the destination.

  • Government House hosts Investiture Ceremonies honouring 16 distinguished nation-builders

    Government House hosts Investiture Ceremonies honouring 16 distinguished nation-builders

    The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis has formally recognized sixteen exceptional citizens for their profound contributions to national development during two distinguished Investiture Ceremonies at Government House on January 28-29, 2026. Under the auspices of Her Excellency Governor-General Dame Marcella Liburd, the ceremonies celebrated individuals whose dedicated service has significantly advanced various sectors of Kittitian and Nevisian society.

    The inaugural ceremony on January 28th honored eight recipients with the Medal of Honour across diverse fields. Pastor Clive Saunders received recognition for Community Service and Religion, while Etsu Bradshaw-Caines was celebrated for Community Service. Joyah Walters was distinguished in Health and Medicine, Lennox Warner in Business and Entrepreneurship, and Meredith Charles in Security and Defence. The sporting community saw Trevor Huggins honored, alongside Washington J. Fraites in Business and Entrepreneurship, and Stedroy Douglas for his dual contributions to Sports and Community Service.

    January 29th witnessed the presentation of the Companion of the Star of Merit to eight additional exemplary citizens. The honorees included Dorothy Clarke, Lorozine E. Williams, and William V. A. Hodge in Education and Academia; Goldwin Caines, MBE, in Public and Civil Service; Dr. Jerome Thomas in Agriculture; Lydia Claxton in Sports; Pastor Leroy Benjamin in Religion and Spiritual Leadership; and Franklyn Dorset for his work in Law & Justice combined with Sports.

    Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew delivered heartfelt addresses at both ceremonies, emphasizing the significance of the awards. “Your service speaks volumes. Not through loud proclamations but through actions, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to the common good,” he told recipients. The Prime Minister further reflected that “in a world that often celebrates visibility over value, your recognition today affirms something important. That quiet excellence matters, commitment over time counts, and nation-building is as much about perseverance as it is about vision.”

    The honors were conferred under the National Honours Act, which establishes three merit-based awards: the Medal of Honour, the Companion of the Star of Merit, and the Order of National Hero. These ceremonies represent the nation’s highest recognition of citizen service and contribution to societal advancement.

  • St Kitts and Nevis Youth Ambassadors call for innovation, unity, and measurable impact as CARICOM leaders convene in February 2026

    St Kitts and Nevis Youth Ambassadors call for innovation, unity, and measurable impact as CARICOM leaders convene in February 2026

    As St. Kitts and Nevis prepares to host the 50th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in February 2026, the nation’s Youth Ambassadors are articulating a powerful vision for regional progress. Aquanjé Robinson and Siobhan Phipps-Harding, representing St. Kitts and Nevis as CARICOM Youth Ambassadors, have issued a compelling call for transformative action that centers youth innovation and measurable outcomes.

    The ambassadors framed their message against a backdrop of global challenges, noting that geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and escalating climate threats disproportionately affect Small Island Developing States. Robinson emphasized that these intersecting crises demand urgent collective response, stating that Caribbean youth constitute both the resilience and sustainable partnership needed for meaningful solutions.

    Phipps-Harding highlighted the critical timing of this milestone meeting, characterizing it as a clarion call for Caribbean unity and self-determination. She stressed that adaptation to rapid change requires investing in systems that protect citizens while developing skills that retain talent within the region.

    Both ambassadors articulated a paradigm shift in how youth participation should be conceptualized, asserting that young people are not merely future leaders but present-day innovators capable of co-creating solutions. They called for policy frameworks that translate into tangible impacts, particularly through initiatives promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development.

    The youth representatives concluded with a reaffirmation of regional solidarity, expressing optimism about the Caribbean’s future precisely because of the active role youth are prepared to play in shaping it. Their statement serves as both endorsement and challenge to CARICOM leaders set to convene in St. Kitts and Nevis for this historic gathering.

  • Government Approves National Holiday to Commemorate Buckley’s Uprising from 2027

    Government Approves National Holiday to Commemorate Buckley’s Uprising from 2027

    In a landmark decision affirming national heritage, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially designated January 28 as an annual national holiday commemorating the historic Buckley’s Uprising. The announcement, made public on January 29, 2026, establishes the observance beginning January 28, 2027, permanently memorializing one of the Caribbean’s most significant labor movements.

    During the 91st Anniversary Commemoration at Buckley’s Estate, Hon. Konris Maynard, Minister of Public Infrastructure and elected representative for St. Christopher #3, revealed the Cabinet’s approval under Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew’s leadership. The decision formalizes decades of advocacy by cultural custodians and community leaders who have preserved the memory of the 1935 uprising.

    Prime Minister Drew characterized the uprising as both a national turning point and an international catalyst for liberation movements. ‘The events here sent shockwaves across the Caribbean and to Africa,’ Drew stated during commemorative ceremonies. ‘This holiday ensures future generations understand the sacrifices made for the rights we enjoy today.’

    The government positions this recognition as part of broader initiatives to strengthen historical awareness and national identity. Minister Maynard described the estate as ‘hallowed ground’ where events ‘helped shape Caribbean democracy and laid foundations for labor rights and social reform.’

    Complementing the holiday designation, the government is advancing multiple preservation efforts including a monument construction at Buckley’s Estate, curriculum integration in national education programs, and expanded public commemoration activities. These measures collectively aim to enshrine the uprising’s legacy in the nation’s consciousness while promoting values of social justice, equality, and unity that continue guiding the Federation’s development.