In a recent public address, senior government and law enforcement officials in Saint Kitts and Nevis reiterated the strict prohibition of smoking in public spaces, emphasizing the legal consequences for violators. Under Section 3 of the Smoking (Designated Areas) Act, 2023, smoking outside designated areas is illegal, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. The law defines smoking broadly, encompassing cigarettes, cannabis, cigars, vaping, and other inhalation devices. During a recent episode of the radio and television program *InFocus*, members of the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention (NCDAP) highlighted the health risks posed by public smoking, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions. Travis Rogers, Chair of the NCDAP and Assistant Commissioner of Police, clarified that while cannabis use has been decriminalized, it remains illegal to smoke it in public. Violators face a $500 fine, 20 hours of community service, or up to five days in prison for non-compliance. Karimu Byron-Caines, Director of the NCDAP Secretariat, emphasized the importance of balancing individual rights with public health and safety. She urged citizens to visit www.cannabisclarityskn.com for detailed information on the law. The NCDAP, alongside government agencies and law enforcement, continues to educate the public as full enforcement of the law approaches.
标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis
圣基茨和尼维斯
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Excitement builds as Dominica kicks off 25th World Creole Music Festival
The 25th World Creole Music Festival has officially begun in Dominica, marking a significant milestone for one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated cultural events. Held annually since 1997, the festival has become a cornerstone of Dominica’s cultural identity, blending Creole, soca, reggae, and bouyon rhythms into a vibrant showcase of the island’s musical heritage. This year’s silver jubilee theme, ‘Global Echoes of the Nature Island: Celebrating 25 Years of Creole Music, Magic, and Memories,’ underscores the festival’s role in uniting music lovers worldwide while amplifying Dominica’s cultural influence. Organizers emphasized the event’s ability to transcend entertainment, serving as a bridge that connects people through shared rhythms and traditions. The festival’s opening night promises a spectacular lineup, featuring renowned Caribbean artists such as Vybz Kartel and Spice, alongside a dedicated team of organizers, vendors, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless experience. Beyond its cultural significance, the festival provides a vital economic boost to Dominica, particularly during the island’s slower independence season. Local businesses, artisans, and performers benefit from the influx of visitors and international attention. As the festival continues to grow, it solidifies Dominica’s position as a global hub for Creole culture and world-class entertainment.
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Nevisian businesswoman Shobaina Prince wins Taiwan ICDF Entrepreneurial Elite Pitch Competition
Nevisian entrepreneur Shobaina Prince, founder of Native Radiance, has emerged victorious in the Entrepreneurial Elite Pitch Competition, a key initiative under the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund’s (ICDF) Women’s Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Inclusion (WEEEFI) Project. The competition, held at the Nevis Performing Arts Center (NEPAC), showcased six female-led businesses, each presenting innovative ideas to a panel of judges. Prince secured the top prize of a US$3,000 grant, awarded by H.E. Edward Tao, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to St. Kitts and Nevis, and Hon. Spencer Brand, Minister of Labour in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA).
The event marked the second phase of the WEEEFI Project, now integrated into the Sustainable Island State Phase One Project. Claudia Walwyn, Project Coordinator, emphasized the initiative’s goal to foster entrepreneurial skills and economic development through vocational training and financial support. Participants benefited from cash grants to either launch or enhance their businesses, with the top three entrepreneurs receiving additional recognition and funding.
Patricia Haliday, owner of Vera SKN Hair and Skin Care, claimed second place with a US$2,000 grant, while Vincia Alexander secured third place for her renewable energy microgrid project, earning a US$1,000 grant. All six participants received certificates of participation, underscoring the program’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs in Nevis and beyond.
Prince’s success highlights the transformative impact of initiatives that promote gender equality in entrepreneurship, driving innovation and economic resilience in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
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SKELEC Bids Farewell to Corporate Communications Manager Ms. Patrice Harris
Basseterre, St. Kitts (October 23rd, 2025) — The St. Kitts Electricity Company Ltd. (SKELEC) has announced the departure of Ms. Patrice Harris, their Corporate Communications Manager, after five years of dedicated service. Ms. Harris joined SKELEC in 2020 and has since been instrumental in transforming the company’s corporate image. Through strategic branding, community engagement, and innovative communication strategies, she modernized SKELEC’s public presence, making it more relatable and customer-focused. Her efforts not only strengthened the trust between the company and the public but also positioned SKELEC as a forward-thinking utility provider in the region. In addition to her communications role, Ms. Harris served as SKELEC’s Hurricane Coordinator for two hurricane seasons. In this capacity, she led the company’s disaster preparedness and response communications, ensuring timely and accurate information reached customers during critical weather events. Her leadership during these periods was crucial in maintaining public safety and operational readiness. Mr. Clement Williams, General Manager of SKELEC, expressed his gratitude for Ms. Harris’s contributions, stating, ‘Ms. Harris brought a level of professionalism and passion to our communications that elevated how we connect with our customers and stakeholders. Her dedication and insight have left a lasting impact on our team and the wider community. We thank her for her years of service and wish her continued success in all her future endeavors.’ Ms. Harris’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter at SKELEC, and the company extends its heartfelt gratitude for her commitment and excellence throughout her tenure.
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SKN recommits to protecting the elderly
St. Kitts and Nevis (SKN) has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding and supporting its elderly population during the International Day of Older Persons, observed by the Organization of American States (OAS). Augustine Skerritt, Minister Counselor and Alternate Representative of SKN, addressed the OAS Permanent Council in Washington, DC, outlining the nation’s proactive measures to address the needs of its ageing citizens. With approximately 10% of the population over 60—a figure expected to rise—the Federation is prioritizing age-friendly policies across healthcare, social security, and infrastructure. Skerritt emphasized the invaluable contributions of older individuals, stating, ‘Their experience, wisdom, and cultural legacy are essential anchors to our twin-island Federation.’ The nation has aligned with international standards by acceding to the Inter-American Convention on Protecting the Human Rights of Older Persons, signed by Foreign Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas in April 2025. SKN is enhancing primary healthcare to manage non-communicable diseases, expanding social safety nets, and promoting age-friendly environments through legislation and digital inclusion initiatives. Skerritt underscored the moral obligation to protect older citizens, asserting, ‘The strength of the Americas is measured by how we treat our most vulnerable.’
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Businesses in Nevis recognized for championing mental health initiatives
In a landmark ceremony held on October 20, 2025, the Nevis Island Administration’s Behavioral Health and Wellness Center recognized three local businesses for their outstanding contributions to mental health initiatives. The event, part of the Center’s observance of World Mental Health Day, celebrated the efforts of Finished Touch Limited, Jamakie’s Restaurant, and the St. Kitts Nevis Anguilla Trading and Development Company (TDC). These organizations were lauded for their unwavering commitment to fostering community wellness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Counsellor Oldain Claxton, who chaired the ceremony, highlighted the critical role these businesses play in advancing mental health awareness. He praised Finished Touch for its annual donations, describing them as a lifeline that helps create a supportive community. Claxton also commended Jamakie’s Restaurant owner Kelly Dixon for his generosity in providing nourishing meals that benefit both body and spirit. TDC was recognized for its consistent sponsorship of the annual award ceremony, demonstrating its strong advocacy for mental health. Senior Counsellor Macmillan Cuffy emphasized the significance of corporate social responsibility, noting that the awardees’ actions have significantly strengthened the Center’s impact. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Shelissa Martin-Clarke, presented the awards, expressing gratitude for the recipients’ continued collaboration in promoting wellness across Nevis.
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NIA celebrates young female achievers with 2025 Girls of Excellence Awards
The Nevis Island Administration’s Department of Gender Affairs celebrated the achievements of 14 exceptional young girls at the 2025 Girls of Excellence Awards Ceremony. Held on October 11, 2025, at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, the event was themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead, Girls on the Frontline of Crisis,” aligning with the International Day of the Girl Child. The ceremony recognized girls who have demonstrated leadership, courage, and excellence in their schools and communities. Awardees included Rachel Charran from Cecele Browne Integrated School, Jahzara Davis Nisbett from Nevis International Secondary School, and Marika Kendall from Charlestown Secondary School, among others. Deputy Governor General Her Honour Hyleeta Liburd, Minister of Gender Affairs Senator Jahnel Nisbett, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Zahnela Claxton presented the awards. Minister Nisbett praised the honorees for their resilience and ability to lead during challenging times, emphasizing the opportunities they have to shape the future. The event also featured a keynote address by Youth Junior Minister of Tourism Khayla Claxton and a spoken word performance by Brianné Chapman, a recipient of the 25 Most Remarkable Teens award. The Department of Gender Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young girls and fostering the next generation of women leaders on Nevis.
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Team St. Kitts Announces Squad for Leeward Islands Cricket Tournament
The St. Kitts Cricket Association (SKCA) has officially revealed the Team St. Kitts roster for the highly anticipated Leeward Islands Cricket Tournament, scheduled to run from October 25th to November 1st, 2025. The matches will be hosted across various venues in St. Kitts, promising an exciting showcase of regional cricket talent.
Leading the squad once again is captain Terrance Warde, who exuded confidence in his team’s preparation. Warde emphasized the balanced composition of the team, which blends seasoned veterans with emerging young stars. “It’s a mix of youth and experience. We have a few youngsters making significant strides, and we’ll leverage their potential while providing senior players opportunities to shine and secure higher honors, such as selection for the Leeward Islands,” Warde stated.
Warde also highlighted the pivotal role of the Len Harris Cricket Academy in nurturing the island’s cricketing talent. Many of the academy’s graduates have already represented the Leeward Islands at youth levels, a testament to the program’s success. “The youngsters have been performing exceptionally well, and the academy deserves immense credit for their development,” he added.
The 2025 squad includes notable names such as Mikyle Louis, Jeremiah Louis, and wicketkeeper Eirette Richards, alongside promising talents like Caiden Francis and Kasim Challenger. Additional players will be selected for the two-day matches later in the tournament, ensuring depth and flexibility for the team.
As the tournament approaches, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the thrilling contests that will unfold, with Team St. Kitts poised to make a strong impression on home soil.
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Thousands of Palestinians return to devastated homes as UN warns of overcrowded shelters and growing humanitarian needs
Thousands of Palestinians are returning to their homes in the aftermath of a recent ceasefire, only to find widespread devastation and overcrowded UN shelters. The truce has allowed displaced residents to attempt to rebuild their lives, but many are confronted with the grim reality of homes reduced to rubble. With limited options, families are seeking refuge in newly accessible areas, though these sites are already overwhelmed by the influx of people. Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, highlighted the growing movement across the Gaza Strip as residents relocate to safer or newly accessible zones. On Sunday alone, nearly 13,800 displacements were recorded towards Gaza City and North Gaza, with an additional 4,100 movements to the east. Humanitarian operations are being rapidly expanded under a 60-day response plan, with aid agencies increasing their presence in newly accessible areas to address soaring needs. Food parcels, containing essentials like rice, lentils, and fortified sunflower oil, are being distributed at over two dozen locations, reaching more than 15,000 households. UN agencies and 21 partner organizations provided nearly 944,000 meals over the weekend through 178 community kitchens, marking a significant increase in food assistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also intensified efforts, dispatching critical medical supplies to key health facilities, including treatments for chronic illnesses and essential pain relief medications. Shelter assistance is being scaled up ahead of the winter season, with 300 tents and 14,700 blankets distributed to vulnerable households. However, humanitarian partners warn that far greater volumes of shelter materials are urgently needed, requiring Israeli authorities to grant additional access for aid organizations. Despite the ceasefire, the humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with aid groups emphasizing that the needs are outpacing available resources.
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New UN report warns climate crisis is hitting world’s poorest the hardest
A groundbreaking report jointly released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Oxford University’s Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) has issued a stark warning about the escalating climate crisis and its disproportionate impact on the world’s most impoverished populations. Published ahead of the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) in Brazil, the study reveals that climate-related disasters are exacerbating poverty and threatening the lives and livelihoods of millions globally. The report emphasizes the urgent need for decisive action from world leaders to mitigate these escalating challenges. Findings indicate that nearly 80% of the 1.1 billion people living in multidimensional poverty—approximately 887 million individuals—are directly exposed to climate hazards such as extreme heat, flooding, drought, and severe air pollution. Among those in acute multidimensional poverty, 651 million endure two or more climate hazards, while 309 million face three or four simultaneously. Haoliang Xu, UNDP Acting Administrator, stressed the necessity of addressing climate risks to combat global poverty and ensure stability. Pedro Conceição, Director of UNDP’s Human Development Report Office, warned that these challenges are expected to intensify in the coming decades, with the poorest nations projected to experience the most significant temperature increases. The report advocates for climate-resilient poverty reduction strategies, enhanced local adaptation capabilities, and expanded international financing mechanisms to support vulnerable nations. The Caribbean, one of the regions most affected by climate change, continues to experience severe impacts, including intensified hurricanes and prolonged heatwaves. Caribbean leaders are pushing for the adoption of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) to better assess climate risks and access development financing, arguing that GDP alone fails to capture the true vulnerabilities of small island states.