Carib Scope

标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

圣基茨和尼维斯

  • St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority Concludes Successful Two-Week Engagement with Consultant Dr. Machel Emanuel

    St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority Concludes Successful Two-Week Engagement with Consultant Dr. Machel Emanuel

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – The Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) of St. Kitts and Nevis has successfully completed an extensive two-week consultation initiative led by distinguished consultant Dr. Machel Emanuel. This comprehensive program represents a pivotal advancement in establishing the Federation’s medicinal cannabis framework, combining regulatory development with public engagement strategies.

    The initiative featured an ambitious schedule including multi-stakeholder consultations, cultivator assemblies on both islands, media appearances, and high-level institutional meetings. These engagements were strategically designed to enhance regulatory preparedness and facilitate the sector’s transition to operational status.

    Cultivator meetings demonstrated remarkable participation, fostering productive dialogues focused on regulatory compliance, operational requirements, and the Authority’s commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable industry. Media outreach through ZIZ Television’s ‘InFocus’ and VON Radio’s ‘On The Mark’ with Premier Mark Brantley provided public education regarding the program’s objectives and national benefits.

    Critical institutional engagements included consultations with the Chief Medical Officer, medical professionals, the Bureau of Standards, Police High Command, and various government agencies. A significant meeting with the Premier of Nevis highlighted the essential role of intergovernmental cooperation in sector development.

    The program culminated in a well-attended public lecture that stimulated active audience participation and reinforced community interest in medicinal cannabis as both a public health initiative and economic development opportunity.

    The MCA acknowledges the constructive nature of all dialogues conducted during the consultation period and confirms that stakeholder feedback will inform the ongoing operationalization process. The Authority has officially opened the application process for sector participation, with licensing operations scheduled to commence imminently. Application materials are available at the MCA Office on Princes Street.

    The Authority expressed gratitude to Dr. Emanuel, all participating stakeholders, and community members while reaffirming its dedication to transparent, inclusive, and properly regulated sector development.

  • Cricket West Indies Congratulates Vitel Lawes on ICC Under 19 World Cup Team of the Tournament Selection

    Cricket West Indies Congratulates Vitel Lawes on ICC Under 19 World Cup Team of the Tournament Selection

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially celebrated the exceptional achievement of Jamaican prodigy Vitel Lawes, whose remarkable performance at the 2026 ICC Under 19 World Cup secured his place in the Tournament’s Select Team. The 18-year-old left-arm wrist spinner distinguished himself as a pivotal force within the West Indies squad, captivating global cricket audiences with his skillful displays and mental fortitude throughout the competition.

    Lawes emerged as the leading wicket-taker for the Caribbean side, claiming 10 crucial scalps with his deceptive bowling. His tournament journey began spectacularly with a 3/23 spell against Tanzania, effectively dismantling the opposition’s batting lineup. He continued his impressive form despite team setbacks, securing another three-wicket haul (3/48) against Afghanistan and delivering critical breakthroughs in subsequent matches against South Africa, Ireland, and Australia. Notably, Lawes bowled a tournament-high 150 dot balls, consistently building pressure on opposing batsmen.

    Reflecting on his achievement, Lawes described the selection as “a very big achievement” following initial doubts about his place in the World Cup team after a challenging series against Sri Lanka. “To come from such a low moment, this is a tremendous feeling,” Lawes stated. “Being the only West Indian makes it even more special for me, the region, and my country.”

    CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe praised Lawes’s development, noting his “maturity beyond his years” and ability to execute under pressure against quality opposition. Bascombe emphasized that such performances validate the effectiveness of the region’s youth development programs and signal a promising future for West Indies cricket.

    The West Indies campaign featured several other standout performances, including opener Zachary Carter’s century against South Africa—the team’s only hundred of the tournament—and wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew’s consistent contributions. Shaquan Belle recorded the competition’s best bowling figures (6/40 against South Africa), while Jakeem Pollard demonstrated extraordinary economy with 68.4% dot balls delivered.

    CWI extended commendations to the entire Under 19 squad and support staff for their dedicated efforts throughout the tournament, recognizing their collective contribution to building a solid foundation for the future of Caribbean cricket.

  • One Bill to receive first reading in the National Assembly on Thursday, February 12, 2026

    One Bill to receive first reading in the National Assembly on Thursday, February 12, 2026

    The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is scheduled to convene on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the National Assembly Chambers at Government Headquarters, Basseterre. The parliamentary session will feature the inaugural reading of significant financial legislation proposed by the government.

    Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, who holds multiple portfolios including Finance, National Security, Citizenship and Immigration, Health and Social Security, will formally introduce the Saint Kitts and Nevis Sovereign Wealth and Resilience Fund Bill (2026). This legislative initiative represents a continuation of the administration’s commitment to principles of good governance, transparency, accountability, and the Rule of Law.

    The parliamentary proceedings will receive comprehensive media coverage, being broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and several partner radio stations. Television audiences can watch the session on Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis, while digital access will be available through live streaming at www.zizonline.com.

    Official copies of the proposed legislation will be made accessible to the public through multiple channels once available. These include the official website of the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (www.sknis.gov.kn) under the ‘Bills’ section, as well as through their Facebook platform, ensuring widespread public access to the document.

  • Minister reports sharp economic boost from Sugar Mas

    Minister reports sharp economic boost from Sugar Mas

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – The National Carnival season has generated an extraordinary economic windfall for St. Kitts and Nevis, with official figures revealing a dramatic 35.9% increase in economic activity during the recent six-week celebration. Minister of the Creative Economy Samal Duggins unveiled these impressive results at a prize-giving ceremony on February 7th, highlighting how the festival has become an increasingly powerful economic engine for the Federation.

    The 2025/2026 Sugar Mas season generated a remarkable $29.5 million in total economic spending, substantially exceeding the previous year’s $21.7 million. This substantial growth has been primarily driven by a proliferation of private events throughout the busy Christmas and Carnival period, demonstrating how the festival has expanded beyond its traditional core activities.

    Minister Duggins emphasized that beyond the direct financial benefits, Sugar Mas continues to serve as a vital marketing platform that attracts international visitors during the winter months. The festival has significantly boosted arrivals from both major source markets and regional neighbors, enhancing the federation’s tourism profile.

    Participation metrics reached unprecedented levels, with over 10,000 revelers flooding the streets for J’Ouvert morning celebrations – some individual bands attracting more than 2,500 participants. The Grand Parade similarly drew massive crowds, with official counts exceeding 5,000 participants including international visitors from across the globe.

    The minister confirmed that private events expanded to 35 separate occasions this season, reflecting the festival’s growing popularity and creating broader opportunities for public engagement. This expansion contributed significantly to both attendance numbers and overall viewership metrics.

    Financial investments matched the festival’s growing scale, with participants sharing over EC$700,000 in prize money. The government demonstrated substantial commitment through direct cash support exceeding EC$500,000 to promoters, troupes, and participating bands for Sugar Mas 54.

    Minister Duggins concluded with an optimistic assessment: ‘I believe we can say fairly that our Sugar Mas product is indeed growing, and we are seeing that progress.’ The numbers clearly indicate that the carnival is evolving into a preferred destination for global revelers while delivering tangible economic benefits to the nation.

  • IMF review highlights economic strengths and debt concerns in ECCU

    IMF review highlights economic strengths and debt concerns in ECCU

    The International Monetary Fund has concluded its comprehensive assessment of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU), revealing a complex economic landscape marked by robust recovery momentum alongside persistent fiscal vulnerabilities. Following high-level consultations with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the IMF acknowledged the currency union’s stabilizing role in this shock-prone region while issuing urgent warnings about debt sustainability challenges.

    Post-pandemic economic expansion has been primarily fueled by resurgent tourism activity and substantial construction investments, driving regional growth to approximately 3% in the previous year. Inflationary pressures have notably abated, tracking global trends in energy and food prices with minimal immediate impact from recent shifts in U.S. trade policy.

    However, the Fund’s analysis reveals concerning fiscal developments. Public debt reduction initiatives have stagnated across member states, attributed to recurrent external shocks. Multiple ECCU nations now face increasing uncertainty in achieving the collective target of reducing debt-to-GDP ratios to 60% by 2035. This fiscal deterioration occurs despite overall economic improvements, highlighting structural challenges in public financial management.

    The financial sector maintains broad stability but exhibits underlying weaknesses. Bank balance sheets contain significant non-performing loans that exceed the ECCB’s 5% benchmark, with many impaired assets remaining unresolved for extended periods. The non-bank financial sector continues to operate under fragmented regulatory oversight, creating potential systemic vulnerabilities.

    Medium-term projections indicate economic moderation to approximately 2.5% growth as tourism sectors approach capacity constraints. This slowdown reflects deeper structural issues including productivity challenges, demographic pressures, and constrained fiscal space for public investment. The IMF emphasized that decades of declining productivity and structural barriers to investment—including limited credit access, administrative bottlenecks, and workforce skill gaps—have diminished the region’s long-term growth potential.

    Critical recommendations include enhanced regional policy coordination through harmonized customs procedures, a unified trade platform, and mutual recognition agreements to reduce institutional inefficiencies. The Fund urged accelerated establishment of the Eastern Caribbean Financial Standards Board to regulate non-bank institutions and create equitable operating conditions across the financial landscape.

    The transition to Basel II/III frameworks continues, potentially necessitating additional capital buffers. The IMF advised targeted asset quality reviews focusing on real estate exposure, foreign investments, and risk concentration patterns to strengthen financial safeguards. These measures would complement the newly implemented deposit insurance scheme and reinforce the regional financial safety net.

  • Second man charged in 2024 Cayon murder as Police advance investigation

    Second man charged in 2024 Cayon murder as Police advance investigation

    In a significant development regarding the 2024 homicide investigation, St. Kitts law enforcement authorities have formally charged a second individual in connection with the murder of Kelvin Millard from Cayon. Romeo ‘OG’ Browne, a resident of Cayon, was charged with murder on February 3, 2026, at the Basseterre Police Station, joining previously charged suspect Dijon ‘Baby’ Dore, aged 24, from Hermitage, Cayon.

    The victim, 30-year-old Millard of Upper Cayon, was discovered deceased inside his vehicle in the Cabbage Tree area on January 21, 2024. According to official police reports, the fatal incident occurred between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. along the island’s primary roadway.

    Investigative findings indicate that Millard was confronted by two armed assailants who subsequently opened fire. In what appears to have been a desperate attempt to flee the attack, Millard’s vehicle crashed a short distance from the initial shooting location.

    Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing as they continue to pursue all leads in this case. The additional murder charge represents a substantial step forward in the judicial process, demonstrating the persistent efforts of local authorities to address violent crime within the community.

  • Why Royal Caribbean’s Most Underrated Southern Caribbean Cruise Port Needs To Be On Your Itinerary

    Why Royal Caribbean’s Most Underrated Southern Caribbean Cruise Port Needs To Be On Your Itinerary

    While Royal Caribbean’s private island destinations typically draw crowds with their elaborate water parks and curated beach clubs, the undercapitalized port of Basseterre on St. Kitts offers a distinctly different Caribbean experience. As the capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis, this historic harbor city provides cruise passengers with immediate immersion into authentic island life rather than a manufactured tourist environment.

    Founded in the 17th century, Basseterre presents a compelling blend of colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and accessible tropical beauty. Unlike more commercialized ports, the city maintains an unhurried atmosphere where visitors and residents share the same spaces—from colorful markets to casual cafés—creating a genuinely welcoming environment.

    The practical advantages of Basseterre as a cruise destination are significant. Ships dock directly at Port Zante, eliminating lengthy transfers and maximizing time ashore. The compact, walkable layout puts historical sites, shopping districts, and transportation hubs within easy reach. Shore excursions typically involve minimal transit time, allowing visitors to combine multiple experiences in a single day—from UNESCO World Heritage sites to pristine beaches and rainforest adventures.

    Cultural highlights include the imposing Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, which offers panoramic views and historical insights, while nearby beaches like South Friar’s Bay provide ideal relaxation settings. The destination also supports more active pursuits including volcano hikes and ecological tours through lush rainforest terrain.

    Royal Caribbean enhances the Basseterre experience through well-designed shore excursions that accommodate various interests and time constraints. The cruise line’s curated offerings—from scenic railway journeys to fortress tours and beach access—provide structured exploration options while maintaining flexibility for independent discovery.

    Optimal visitation periods align with the dry season from January through April, though shoulder months offer reduced crowds and favorable conditions. Travelers should note seasonal considerations including hurricane patterns from June through November, though these periods may offer unique cultural events and reduced pricing.

    Basseterre represents an increasingly rare Caribbean port that prioritizes authentic experience over commercial development. Its combination of historical significance, cultural accessibility, and logistical convenience makes it particularly valuable for travelers seeking genuine connection with destination communities beyond the cruise terminal.

  • Notice To Declarants in Public Life – St. Kitts

    Notice To Declarants in Public Life – St. Kitts

    The Integrity Commission of St. Kitts has issued an official public notice directed at all individuals holding declarable positions in public life. The announcement, published on Tuesday, February 10th, 2026, serves as a formal reminder regarding the submission of mandatory declaration forms.

    This regulatory requirement represents a critical component of the nation’s governance and anti-corruption framework. The Commission has made these declaration forms readily accessible through its official digital portal at www.iplskn.com, facilitating compliance for all designated public officials.

    The mandate for financial disclosures from persons in public office forms part of broader transparency initiatives within the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Such measures are designed to promote accountability, deter corrupt practices, and maintain public trust in governmental institutions and elected representatives.

    Additional information and detailed guidance regarding the declaration process are available through the Commission’s official channels. The notice underscores the administration’s ongoing commitment to ethical governance standards and financial transparency within the public sector.

  • ECCB Monetary Council to Convene for 112th Meeting in St Kitts and Nevis

    ECCB Monetary Council to Convene for 112th Meeting in St Kitts and Nevis

    The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is poised to host its 112th Monetary Council gathering on February 13th at the Sir Cecil Jacob Auditorium within its St Kitts and Nevis headquarters. This high-level assembly will bring together finance ministers from across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) to deliberate on critical economic initiatives.

    ECCB Governor Timothy N. J. Antoine will present the comprehensive Report on Monetary and Credit Conditions, providing crucial insights into the region’s financial landscape. The Council’s agenda features pivotal discussions on The Big Push Initiative—an ambitious decade-long strategy designed to double the ECCU’s collective GDP while significantly enhancing living standards across member nations.

    The meeting will also incorporate progress reports from key technical committees, including the Technical Core Committee on Insurance, Eastern Caribbean Asset Management Corporation, and the Eastern Caribbean Partial Credit Guarantee Corporation.

    Following the closed-door deliberations, Council Chairman Honourable Gaston Browne, who concurrently serves as Finance Minister for Antigua and Barbuda, will address journalists at a 3:00 p.m. press conference. He will present the official Communiqué and field media inquiries regarding the Council’s decisions.

    The Monetary Council operates as the ECCB’s supreme governance body, comprising finance ministers from all eight member territories: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The Council’s leadership rotates annually according to alphabetical order among these member states.

  • Azerbaijan to donates Laptops to Students in St Kitts and Nevis  – St. Kitts Gazette – Daily News from St Kitts And Nevis

    Azerbaijan to donates Laptops to Students in St Kitts and Nevis  – St. Kitts Gazette – Daily News from St Kitts And Nevis

    In a significant diplomatic gesture enhancing educational access, the Republic of Azerbaijan has announced the donation of laptops to students throughout St Kitts and Nevis. The initiative, confirmed through bilateral discussions between ambassadors Verna Mills of St Kitts and Nevis and Azerbaijan’s Ruslan Rzayev, represents the latest development in the nations’ three-decade diplomatic relationship.

    The technological contribution will be facilitated through Azerbaijan International Development Aid, with Ambassador Rzayev scheduled to visit the Caribbean federation for an official handover ceremony. While specific dates remain unannounced, the donation has been characterized as a meaningful enhancement to the countries’ longstanding partnership established on March 22, 1995.

    This educational technology infusion aims to bridge digital divides by providing students across the twin-island nation with modern tools essential for contemporary learning environments. The laptops will enable access to digital resources and learning platforms, aligning educational methodologies with global technological standards.

    The donation continues a pattern of international educational support for St Kitts and Nevis, where various nations have contributed technological resources to bolster academic development. Such initiatives have proven instrumental in providing students of all ages with essential tools for digital literacy and educational advancement.

    Observers note that beyond its immediate educational benefits, this gesture reinforces the cordial working relationship between the two nations while demonstrating Azerbaijan’s growing engagement with Caribbean development initiatives. The contribution reflects increasing global recognition of technology’s critical role in modern education systems and international cooperation frameworks.