Carib Scope

标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

圣基茨和尼维斯

  • Over 44k passengers arrive in St Kitts aboard 22 cruise ships this week – Associates Times

    Over 44k passengers arrive in St Kitts aboard 22 cruise ships this week – Associates Times

    The Caribbean island of St. Kitts witnessed an extraordinary influx of tourism activity during the week of December 7-13, 2025, with 44,307 passengers arriving aboard 22 cruise ships at Port Zante. This substantial maritime traffic demonstrates the island’s growing prominence as a premier Caribbean destination during the peak winter season.

    The week commenced on Sunday, December 7th, with three vessels—Azamara Onward, Norwegian Gem, and Norwegian Getaway—delivering 6,832 visitors. Monday saw an even larger arrival with Ariva, AIDAmar, and Silver Ray bringing 7,893 passengers. The flow continued throughout the week with Celebrity Ascent and Marella Discovery 2 (4,892 passengers) on Tuesday, followed by four ships including Marella Explorer 2 and Celebrity Apex (11,023 passengers) on Wednesday.

    Thursday marked a five-ship day with Celebrity Beyond, Seaborne Ovation, Marella Discovery, Emerald Azzurra, and Star Flyer carrying 5,585 visitors. Friday concluded the heavy traffic with Coral Princess and Wind Surf bringing 2,251 passengers. The week culminated on Saturday with Costa Fascinosa (3,215 passengers from Guadeloupe) and Grand Princess (2,616 passengers from Tortola) docking simultaneously.

    The economic impact was substantial as the majority of passengers disembarked to explore the island’s attractions. Local businesses including taxi drivers, tour operators, craft vendors, restaurateurs, and jewelry merchants experienced significant patronage. Visitors dispersed across the island with many heading to Frigate Bay and Southeast Peninsula beaches, while others explored Basseterre’s historical landmarks including The Berkley Memorial, St. George’s Anglican Church, and Independence Square.

    Tourism activities diversified with passengers engaging in organized excursions to Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, Romney Manor, and Batik at Black Rocks. Adventure seekers ventured to Mount Liamuiga for hiking trails, while others enjoyed snorkeling, sailing excursions to Nevis, golfing, and casino entertainment. The St. Kitts Scenic Railway provided panoramic views of the island’s landscape, further enhancing visitor experiences.

  • Nevis Division of the SKNCIC Recognizes Top Business Students for 2025

    Nevis Division of the SKNCIC Recognizes Top Business Students for 2025

    CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS – In a significant recognition of academic excellence, the Nevis Division of the St. Kitts-Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce (SKNCIC) has honored three exceptional graduates for their outstanding achievements in Business Studies during a recent ceremony. The awards were presented at the Chamber’s “Mix and Jingle” networking event, held amidst the scenic gardens of its new headquarters on Government Road.

    The distinguished recipients included Malique Parry from Nevis Sixth Form College, named the most outstanding business student, along with Blessyn Grant of Gingerland Secondary School and Zeleequa Rivers representing Charlestown Secondary School. These graduates were selected for their exemplary performance and demonstrated potential in business education.

    Stephen Hector, Chairman and Board Director of the Nevis Division, personally conferred the awards while emphasizing the critical role these young professionals will play in shaping the future economic landscape of Nevis. He encouraged the awardees to maintain their pursuit of excellence as they advance in their academic and professional endeavors.

    The “Mix and Jingle” event served a dual purpose, combining the recognition ceremony with strategic networking opportunities designed to foster stronger connections within the local business community. Hector explained that the initiative specifically aimed to bridge relationships between Chamber members and non-members, facilitating meaningful professional partnerships and collaborative ventures.

    Highlighting the advantages of Chamber membership, Hector noted that SKNCIC representation extends to all national committees within the Federation, ensuring private sector perspectives are incorporated into policy development processes. The organization provides members with technical expertise, advocacy support, and access to regional and international opportunities including financial grants and business development resources.

    As the largest umbrella organization representing business interests in St. Kitts and Nevis, SKNCIC continues to champion economic growth and resilience through such initiatives that recognize talent while strengthening professional networks across the islands.

  • Prime Minister fulfils commitment with establishment of Advisory Committee to review Special Sustainability Zones Authorisation Act

    Prime Minister fulfils commitment with establishment of Advisory Committee to review Special Sustainability Zones Authorisation Act

    In a significant move toward transparent governance, Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew has formally established an independent Advisory Committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the Special Sustainability Zones Authorisation Act (SSZA Act) of 2025. This action fulfills the commitment made during national roundtable discussions held last month.

    The newly formed ad hoc committee comprises representatives from fifteen key civil society organizations and professional bodies, reflecting the government’s dedication to inclusive policymaking. Participating organizations span diverse sectors including religious groups, financial institutions, legal associations, medical professionals, construction industries, and conservation entities such as the Saint Christopher National Trust.

    Notably, the committee’s mandate extends beyond domestic consultation. Regional institutions including the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Authority, OECS Bar Association, and Caribbean Development Bank have been invited to provide written expertise, acknowledging the legislation’s broader implications across the Eastern Caribbean region.

    Prime Minister Drew emphasized that the SSZA Act itself does not establish any specific development zones but rather creates a structured legal framework for future evaluation processes. The legislation incorporates parliamentary oversight and constitutional safeguards to ensure accountability.

    The Advisory Committee is tasked with examining the Act’s provisions, addressing public concerns, and recommending potential amendments or procedural enhancements. Their work will be guided by international best practices and the principles of the Sustainable Island State Agenda, with all findings to be submitted to Federal Cabinet for consideration.

    This initiative represents a robust approach to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and national sovereignty, setting a precedent for participatory governance in the Caribbean region.

  • Spreading Holiday Cheer at the St. Christopher Outreach Centre

    Spreading Holiday Cheer at the St. Christopher Outreach Centre

    In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, executives and staff from St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited personally served meals during the Annual Soup Kitchen Christmas Luncheon at St. Christopher Outreach Centre on December 15, 2025.

    Managing Director Terrence Crossman and CEO Anthony Galloway led the bank’s volunteer contingent in distributing warm meals and engaging with community members during the festive event. This initiative represents a tangible manifestation of the financial institution’s National Cares Initiative, which demonstrates the organization’s sustained dedication to creating meaningful social impact within the communities it serves.

    The Christmas luncheon provided both nourishment and human connection during the holiday season, particularly benefiting vulnerable populations. Bank representatives noted that such outreach programs form an integral component of their corporate philosophy, emphasizing that financial institutions bear responsibility beyond mere economic transactions.

    Organizers expressed profound gratitude to all participants and contributors who facilitated the successful execution of this community event, highlighting the collaborative spirit that characterizes such philanthropic endeavors during the holiday period.

  • Bird Rock Desalination Plant nears completion, promising water relief for Basseterre

    Bird Rock Desalination Plant nears completion, promising water relief for Basseterre

    BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts – December 12, 2025 – A groundbreaking desalination facility at Bird Rock is approaching final commissioning stages, poised to deliver substantial water relief to residents throughout Basseterre and adjacent communities. This state-of-the-art reverse osmosis plant, capable of producing two million gallons of fresh water daily, represents a critical infrastructure development for the region.

    The project emerges as a collaborative endeavor between the national Water Service Department and Royal Utilities Ltd., an established private sector entity with extensive experience in water management solutions. Comprehensive testing protocols have been consistently successful, with all microbiological and operational assessments meeting stringent quality benchmarks.

    Gerry Moise, General Manager of Royal Utilities Ltd., elaborated on the strategic advantages of the Caribbean Sea location during the recent National Discussion on Water forum held December 10th. “The Caribbean side offers significantly superior operational conditions compared to the Atlantic coast,” Moise explained. “We benefit from lower salinity levels and avoid the persistent sargassum seaweed intrusions that frequently disrupt seawater intake systems on the eastern shoreline.”

    Environmental impact assessment studies conducted prior to construction included repeated water quality analyses, with ongoing monitoring supervised by the Bureau of Standards to ensure compliance with international water safety protocols. Moise emphasized the exceptional quality output, noting: “The purified water from this new facility exceeds even the standards of our Marriott Resort operation, which has maintained flawless performance for over two decades without a single quality complaint.”

    The desalination initiative addresses chronic water shortages exacerbated by diminishing rainfall patterns, representing a strategic shift toward technological solutions for water security. “Desalination has proven its reliability globally for half a century,” Moise affirmed. “Saint Kitts’ investment in this technology demonstrates forward-thinking leadership in sustainable resource management.”

    The December 10th forum, themed “Embracing Desalination for a Sustainable Future,” highlighted the project’s significance within the broader context of climate adaptation and water resilience planning for the island nation.

  • ICCS Takes Home Talented Teen Crown

    ICCS Takes Home Talented Teen Crown

    In a spectacular showcase of youthful talent and poise, the Immaculate Conception Catholic School (ICCS) emerged triumphant at the Republic Bank Miss Talented Teen competition, securing the coveted crown during St. Kitts’ 2025 Carnival season opening festivities. The event, held in the early hours of Sunday morning at Warner Park Cricket Stadium, witnessed eight competing schools vying for the prestigious title before a capacity audience.

    Tatiyana Archer, representing ICCS, captivated both judges and spectators with her remarkable stage confidence and consistently outstanding performances throughout the evening’s proceedings. Despite challenging weather conditions, Archer’s compelling presentation ultimately earned her the championship title in one of the Carnival season’s most anticipated events.

    The competition rankings placed Cader Rawlins from Washington Archibald High School as First Runner-Up, followed by Celina Alwani of SKI Academy as Second Runner-Up. Verchild’s High School’s Camira Williams completed the top placements as Third Runner-Up.

    Archer’s dominance extended beyond the main title as she secured additional honors for Miss Photogenic and Miss Popularity/Social Media. Charles E. Mills Secondary School received the Miss Amity award, while SKI Academy earned dual recognition through the Chairperson’s Award and School Spirit Award.

    The pageant has evolved into a cornerstone event of the Carnival calendar, celebrated for its combination of competitive spirit and collegial atmosphere. This year’s edition maintained this tradition with enthusiastic supporters creating an electric environment throughout the proceedings.

    As the newly crowned winner, Archer is now designated to represent the Federation at the 2026/2027 Miss Haynes Smith Pageant. The National Carnival Committee expressed gratitude for the strong public turnout that contributed to the event’s success.

    The Carnival season continues with the Junior Calypso Competition scheduled for Sunday evening, maintaining the momentum of cultural celebrations across St. Kitts and Nevis.

  • St. Kitts And Nevis Beach Volleyball Pairs Compete At Crucial NORCECA Circuit Stop In Juan Dolio – SKN PULSE

    St. Kitts And Nevis Beach Volleyball Pairs Compete At Crucial NORCECA Circuit Stop In Juan Dolio – SKN PULSE

    JUAN DOLIO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is being represented by two formidable beach volleyball duos at the conclusive 2025 NORCECA Beach Volleyball Circuit event, hosted in Juan Dolio through December 14. This tournament marks the eleventh and final stop of the regional circuit, carrying substantial implications for international qualifications.

    On the women’s side, the pairing of Shanicia Dyer and Shajunae Gumbs confronts intense competition in Pool B, squaring off against teams from Venezuela and Puerto Rico. Despite the formidable opposition, the duo maintains an optimistic outlook and strategic determination to progress beyond the preliminary rounds.

    The men’s team featuring Zendai Richards and Julian Bristol has been placed in Pool A, where they will challenge squads from the host nation Dominican Republic, Belize, and Martinique. Demonstrating consistent improvement throughout the past half-year, the pair has established quarterfinal advancement as their minimum objective.

    This gathering features 14 women’s and 16 men’s teams representing nations across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The Juan Dolio stop distinguishes itself by awarding double points toward NORCECA continental rankings and contributing significantly to FIVB World Ranking calculations. Additionally, the tournament provides a vital qualification pathway for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, scheduled to take place in Santo Domingo.

    Both St. Kitts and Nevis teams have expressed resolute commitment to advancing beyond pool play into the knockout stages, recognizing this event as a pivotal opportunity to elevate their international standing in beach volleyball.

  • US steps up pressure on Maduro, sanctions relatives and backers

    US steps up pressure on Maduro, sanctions relatives and backers

    The Trump administration has significantly intensified its economic and military pressure on Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro’s government, implementing sweeping new sanctions targeting the president’s relatives and key supporters. The coordinated action by the US Treasury Department and State Department represents the latest escalation in Washington’s campaign against what it describes as Maduro’s “corrupt and illegitimate regime.

    The newly announced sanctions specifically target four individuals and six entities, while identifying six vessels as blocked property. Among those designated are three of Maduro’s nephews—Efraín Antonio Campo Flores, Franqui Francisco Flores de Freitas, and Carlos Erik Malpica Flores. Two of these family members are convicted narcotics traffickers who were previously granted clemency in a 2022 prisoner exchange involving seven American nationals. According to US authorities, both have since resumed drug trafficking activities.

    The sanctions package additionally focuses on Venezuela’s crucial oil sector, including a prominent businessman and six shipping companies. This economic pressure coincides with heightened US military activity across Caribbean waters, where American forces have conducted multiple strikes on vessels allegedly transporting drugs to the US mainland.

    The recent seizure of an oil tanker illegally flying Guyana’s flag in the Caribbean Sea occurred just hours before the sanctions announcement. Since September, these intensified interdiction efforts have resulted in more than 80 fatalities, generating growing concern among Caribbean nations.

    Dr. Denzil Douglas, Foreign Affairs Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and Chair of the Council for Foreign Relations, expressed deep apprehension about the regional militarization, noting that the Caribbean hasn’t witnessed this level of military buildup since World War II. During a Fireside Chat, Douglas emphasized his commitment alongside incoming CARICOM Chair, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, to maintain the region as a “zone of peace” despite escalating tensions.

    The United States, with support from Trinidad and Tobago, maintains that its operations exclusively target drug traffickers, though it has not publicly presented supporting evidence. Dr. Douglas reiterated that while St. Kitts and Nevis remains dedicated to combating drug and human trafficking, regional stability must be simultaneously protected—a position he asserts is shared across CARICOM leadership.

  • St. Kitts and Nevis reaffirms Human Rights Commitment at OAS

    St. Kitts and Nevis reaffirms Human Rights Commitment at OAS

    WASHINGTON, DC — In a powerful address to the Organization of American States (OAS) Permanent Council on Wednesday, St. Kitts and Nevis demonstrated its steadfast dedication to human rights principles during the global observance of World Human Rights Day 2025.

    Minister Counselor and Alternate Representative Augustine Skerritt articulated the Federation’s unwavering commitment to preserving human dignity, equality, and justice for all citizens. The 2025 theme, “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials,” served as the foundation for discussions emphasizing how fundamental rights constitute the bedrock of daily existence worldwide.

    Skerritt emphasized the nation’s continued alignment with both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and core international human rights conventions. As a small island developing state, St. Kitts and Nevis maintains particular awareness of global vulnerabilities, prompting reinforced efforts to protect marginalized communities including Afro-descendants, Indigenous populations, children, women, girls, and persons with disabilities.

    The address coincided with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres’ sobering assessment of contemporary human rights challenges. Guterres highlighted concerning trends including shrinking civic spaces and grave rights violations, while simultaneously calling for collective action to strengthen protective institutions.

    Both officials underscored the necessity of multilateral cooperation between governments, civil society, and international organizations to transform human rights from theoretical concepts into tangible realities. From basic needs provision to environmental protection and gender empowerment, the comprehensive approach requires universal participation according to both speakers.

    Skerritt concluded by reaffirming the Federation’s renewed pledge to recognize, respect, and protect all rights and dignities enshrined in United Nations, Inter-American, and other international agreements, emphasizing that every individual’s contribution remains vital to democratic sustainability regardless of status, gender, ability, or origin.

  • SKN recommits to providing a better space for the Differently-Abled at the OAS

    SKN recommits to providing a better space for the Differently-Abled at the OAS

    WASHINGTON, DC – In a significant demonstration of its dedication to disability rights, St. Kitts and Nevis has formally reaffirmed its commitment to creating inclusive societies during a recent address to the Organization of American States (OAS) Permanent Council. The Federation’s representatives outlined comprehensive domestic initiatives aligned with international disability conventions.

    Third Secretary and Alternate Representative Adelcia Connor-Ferlance articulated the nation’s position that democratic societies reach their fullest potential when all citizens can participate equally in civic, economic, and social spheres. This philosophy particularly extends to vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, whose complete inclusion represents both a democratic necessity and a development priority.

    The Federation’s accession to the Inter-American Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities signifies its sustained commitment to promoting equality, protecting human dignity, and eliminating institutional barriers. These efforts are further guided by principles established in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

    Substantive progress is underway domestically, with the government currently modernizing its disabilities policy and finalizing comprehensive disabilities legislation. These legislative advancements will firmly embed disability rights within the national governance framework.

    Collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing, and Disabilities and the St. Kitts & Nevis Association of Persons with Disabilities have generated increased public awareness through sensitization workshops, stakeholder consultations, and community outreach programs. The government has implemented practical measures including sign language training for frontline workers and civil servants to enhance communication accessibility.

    Economic inclusion initiatives have also been launched within the agricultural sector, designed to develop economic skills and promote self-reliance among persons with disabilities. These programs complement existing handicraft initiatives, creating multiple pathways for social inclusion, entrepreneurship, and independent livelihoods.