标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

The 42nd Independence Ceremonial Parade in Saint Kitts and Nevis is set to take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Warner Park Cricket Stadium. This year’s event introduces a significant change with an evening start time, aimed at enhancing the experience for both participants and spectators. The decision, influenced by Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, was made to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure the comfort of the troops and attendees during the parade. Dr. Marcus Natta, Cabinet Secretary and Co-Chair of the Independence 42 Organising Committee, emphasized the importance of this adjustment, noting that it allows for additional creative elements and special surprises for the audience. Captain Kenish Garnett of the St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard Unit will lead the parade for the fourth time, expressing his pride in commanding the event. The ceremony, which will be livestreamed on SKNIS’ and ZIZ’s platforms, promises a blend of patriotism and precision drills, celebrating the nation’s independence from Great Britain on September 19, 1983.

In a concerning escalation of gun-related violence, two separate shooting incidents occurred on September 18, 2025, in St. Kitts and Nevis, leaving two men injured. Authorities have launched investigations into both cases, which add to a growing trend of ‘Shooting with Intent’ incidents across the Federation. The first incident took place in the Newcastle area of Nevis, near the Combermere Pre-School, where a man was shot and subsequently hospitalized. Shortly thereafter, a second shooting was reported in Halfway Tree, where another man suffered a gunshot wound to his hand. Police have not disclosed the identities of the victims. This year alone, 15 such incidents have been recorded, with 12 occurring on St. Kitts and three on Nevis. The rise in gun violence has raised alarms among local communities and law enforcement, prompting calls for increased measures to address the issue.

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has reported a recent surge in robberies across the Federation, particularly targeting supermarkets operated by the Chinese community. Despite this short-term increase, the overall crime rate, including robberies and larcenies, has shown a significant downward trend compared to the previous year. Since May, multiple supermarkets, such as the All in One Chinese Supermarket in Dieppe Bay and the Panda Chinese Supermarket in Upper Market Street, have been targeted, with some businesses experiencing repeated incidents. Police statistics reveal a 21 percent decrease in robberies year-over-year, even amidst the recent spike. Authorities are intensifying investigations to apprehend perpetrators and prevent further crimes. Deputy Commissioner Cromwell Henry highlighted that businesses adhering to recommended security measures have remained unscathed, while those neglecting protocols have suffered repeated attacks. Beyond robberies, larceny cases have also declined, with 29 reported incidents this year compared to 42 in 2024. The RSCNPF is actively combating cyber-related crimes and raising public awareness about online scams, which remain a significant concern. Enhanced community patrols and partnerships are part of ongoing efforts to maintain public safety. Residents are urged to take proactive steps to protect their properties and businesses.

The Nevis Island Administration’s Department of Community Development (DCD) celebrated five remarkable individuals with the 2025 Unsung Heroes Award on September 11, 2025. The ceremony, held at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, honored Mr. Joseph “Joe” Claxton, Ms. Tamara “Tammy” Farrell, Ms. Pamela “Pam” Barry, Mr. Orin Perkins, and Mr. Addison Jeffers for their exceptional contributions to community development. Each awardee represents a parish on the island, embodying the spirit of selfless service and dedication. Minister of Community Development, the Honourable Senator Jahnel Nisbett, praised the honorees for their unwavering commitment to nation-building. She emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “These individuals demonstrate passion and contribute without expecting anything in return, other than an improved community.” To immortalize their legacy, portraits of the awardees will be displayed at their respective community centers, serving as inspiration for future generations. Deputy Director of Community Development, Denesia Smithen, linked the awards to the Federation’s 42nd Independence theme, “Perpetual Progress- A Sustainable Future in View: Independence 42.” She highlighted the quiet yet impactful efforts of the honorees, noting that true progress involves lifting others along the way. The ceremony showcased the unique contributions of each recipient. Mr. Claxton preserved Nevisian heritage through dance and music, while Mr. Perkins provided compassionate pharmaceutical services for decades. Ms. Barry led environmental initiatives and empowered her community, and Mr. Jeffers exemplified humility and dedication as a postman. Ms. Farrell’s 30 years of service in youth programs and environmental restoration set a standard for grassroots leadership. The awards were presented by Premier the Honourable Mark Brantley, alongside other parliamentary representatives and dignitaries. The Unsung Heroes Award continues to celebrate the power of selfless service, ensuring that those who shape Nevis’s communities are remembered and inspire future generations.

In a heartwarming celebration of community spirit, CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank recently honored two remarkable women in St. Kitts and Nevis as part of its Unsung Hero Awards initiative. Venetta Zakers and Julie Charles were recognized for their tireless efforts in uplifting their communities during a ceremony held at the bank’s Circus branch. Zakers, the overall winner, was awarded EC$13,500 for her over a decade-long commitment to supporting at-risk girls, single-parent families, incarcerated women, and children. Her initiatives focus on breaking cycles of poverty and exploitation through skill-building and mentorship. Charles, the runner-up, received EC$6,750 for her 20 years of advocacy for victims of domestic violence. She founded the Big Sister Programme in 2004, which mentors young women and empowers them to embrace their potential. CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Unsung Hero Awards aim to shine a light on individuals who selflessly dedicate their lives to strengthening their communities, often without public recognition.