Carib Scope

标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

圣基茨和尼维斯

  • Nevis’ Leadership in Renewable Energy Transition Highlighted at National Roadmap Workshop

    Nevis’ Leadership in Renewable Energy Transition Highlighted at National Roadmap Workshop

    Between June 3 and 4, 2026, the Caribbean federation of St. Kitts and Nevis launched a landmark collaborative workshop to develop its national 100% renewable energy transition roadmap, with the island of Nevis emerging as a key leader in shaping the federation’s clean energy future. Hosted at the Nevis Marriott Resort, the kickoff meeting was organized jointly by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Greening The Islands Foundation (GTI), drawing cross-sector participation from government officials, national utility providers, climate technical specialists, and international energy development partners. The core goal of the gathering was to co-design a structured, actionable strategic framework to guide the federation’s full shift away from fossil fuels to renewable power sources.

    Leading the Nevis Electricity Company Limited (NEVLEC) delegation at the event, General Manager Nelson Stapleton delivered the opening remarks on day one, where he outlined the dual economic and national security benefits of a rapid clean energy transition for the small island federation. Stapleton reaffirmed NEVLEC’s full institutional commitment to supporting the development of the national roadmap, drawing particular attention to the utility’s ongoing geothermal energy exploration and development project. He framed the geothermal initiative as a transformative effort that could put the federation well on track to meet its bold 100% renewable energy target far ahead of schedule.

    Throughout the two-day workshop, Stapleton emphasized that energy system resilience must be the central priority of the entire transition process. He noted that the roadmap process represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a reliable, low-carbon energy infrastructure that will serve current and future residents of Nevis and St. Kitts. On the first day of technical sessions, NEVLEC Project Coordinator Naftalie Errar presented a comprehensive update on the utility’s geothermal development program and other related clean energy projects, offering clear evidence of Nevis’s years of ongoing work to unlock its abundant underground geothermal resources and cementing the island’s role as the driving force behind the federation’s clean energy goals.

    Day two of the workshop shifted focus to the practical technical challenges of integrating high levels of renewable energy into the existing national grid. Stapleton joined counterparts from the St. Kitts Electricity Company Limited (SKELEC) to deliver a joint overview of the federation’s current electricity infrastructure, planned modernization upgrades, and the core challenges of grid integration that come with scaling up variable renewable energy generation. NEVLEC’s contributions were particularly critical to discussions around how base-load geothermal power can complement intermittent solar and wind projects, maintaining overall grid stability while ensuring a consistent, reliable supply of electricity for homes and businesses across both islands.

    By the close of the workshop, all participating stakeholders reached formal agreement on clear next steps for advancing the roadmap development process, including formalizing governance structures, outlining individual stakeholder responsibilities, and mapping out the full timeline for implementation. NEVLEC’s high-profile, substantive contributions to the kickoff workshop underscore Nevis’s longstanding commitment to advancing geothermal energy development and supporting the entire federation’s shared vision of a resilient, energy-secure, and fully sustainable clean energy future.

  • Property Tax Payment Deadline Extended to September 30 in Nevis

    Property Tax Payment Deadline Extended to September 30 in Nevis

    CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – In an official announcement issued June 8, 2026, the Nevis Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has confirmed a three-month extension for 2026 annual property tax payments, pushing the original June 30 deadline to September 30 for all property holders across the island.

    The regulatory adjustment comes directly in response to the ongoing island-wide General Property Valuation Exercise, a comprehensive upgrade project the IRD is currently carrying out to modernize Nevis’ outdated property tax framework. Department officials explain that the overhaul is designed to bring greater accuracy, transparency, and fairness to property assessments by aligning all evaluated values with current real estate market conditions across Nevis.

    To address public concerns over potential valuation increases that could lead to higher tax burdens, the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has confirmed it will roll out targeted relief measures to soften impacts, with a specific focus on protecting lower- and middle-income property owners.

    Once the valuation project is finalized, every property owner will receive an official Certificate of Valuation detailing their updated assessment. Under local tax regulations, taxpayers will be granted a 30-day statutory window to file formal objections or request additional clarification if they dispute the assigned valuation.

    The IRD notes that 2026 property tax demand notices will be distributed to all owners well ahead of the new September 30 payment deadline. Notices will be sent via traditional postal mail, and digital copies will also be accessible through the department’s official online platform. Property owners are strongly encouraged to pre-register for an account on the IRD’s E-Government Portal at www.sknird.com to enable quick, convenient digital access to their tax bills as soon as they are released.

    Multiple payment channels remain available for taxpayers to complete their 2026 property tax obligations:
    – Direct deposit to the designated Eastern Caribbean dollar account at The Bank of Nevis, account number 226316
    – Wire transfer to the same Eastern Caribbean dollar account at The Bank of Nevis
    – In-person payments including cheques made out to the Nevis Island Administration, credit card, debit card, and cash transactions at the IRD’s Payment Division

    The IRD extended gratitude to the Nevis public for their patience and ongoing cooperation throughout the multi-stage revaluation process, which is expected to create a more equitable tax system for the island long-term.

    Residents with additional questions about the valuation process, new deadline, or payment procedures are invited to contact the IRD’s Property Valuation Division via phone at (869) 469-5521 (extensions 5015 or 5017), mobile at (869) 667-3125, or WhatsApp at the same mobile number.

  • St. Kitts And Nevis Youth Summit officially launched, signaling a new era of youth engagement and national dialogue

    St. Kitts And Nevis Youth Summit officially launched, signaling a new era of youth engagement and national dialogue

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts and Nevis – On June 3, 2026, the long-awaited 2026 St. Kitts and Nevis Youth Summit officially kicked off during a live broadcast on Freedom FM’s popular Issues Programme, opening a new chapter of structured youth engagement in the Caribbean federation.

    During the on-air launch, members of the Summit Planning Team laid out their ambitious vision, core objectives, and detailed programming for what organizers describe as far more than a one-time gathering: a national movement to center young voices in conversations shaping the country’s future. The initiative is built around five critical policy and social domains that touch the daily lives of young citizens across the islands: Education, Governance, Economy, Health and Well-being, and Culture and Identity.

    “This summit is an investment in our nation’s most valuable resource: our young people,” shared planning team members during the broadcast. “It is a structured space where ideas can flow freely, existing perspectives can be constructively challenged, leadership skills can be nurtured, and actionable solutions can be co-created. When young people are empowered to participate in national discourse, they do not just inherit the future—they become the architects who build it.”

    Open to young people aged 7 to 21 from across both islands of the federation, the summit will deliver a multi-week series of interactive activities, facilitated discussions, skills-building workshops, and collaborative learning projects all rooted in the five core focus areas. Beyond topical conversations, the program is designed to equip participants with the confidence, ethical framework, and sense of purpose needed to lead their communities long after the summit concludes. Attendees will also have the opportunity to dive into pressing national and regional challenges, bringing on-the-ground youth perspectives to issues that impact their daily lives.

    A centerpiece of the pre-summit outreach is a nationwide school tour, which will introduce the initiative to students across the country, collect their input to shape summit programming, and build grassroots excitement ahead of the official Summit Week. The tour is intentionally designed to keep youth leadership at the heart of both planning and implementation, ensuring the summit responds to the actual needs and priorities of young people rather than top-down assumptions.

    Unlike many fragmented youth engagement efforts, the summit centers intentional dialogue across differing perspectives, framing diversity of thought not as a barrier to progress but as an opportunity for mutual learning and stronger collective outcomes. Through shared experiences and structured conversation, participants are encouraged to move beyond division and cultivate the values of unity, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for national development.

    As St. Kitts and Nevis navigates an increasingly complex, interconnected global landscape, this initiative reflects a deliberate investment in preparing the next generation to serve as informed citizens, visionary leaders, and active contributors to sustainable national growth. The Planning Committee extended public thanks to Freedom FM for partnering to host the official launch and extend the conversation to audiences across the federation.

    Further updates, including details on the school tour schedule, summit activity agendas, registration information, and upcoming announcements will be released through official national communication channels in the coming weeks. Organizers say the 2026 St. Kitts and Nevis Youth Summit is set to become a landmark event that celebrates the unique brilliance, creativity, and resilience of the nation’s youth while laying the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive future for all residents of the federation.

  • CDB recommits to tackling regional challenges through strategic realignment

    CDB recommits to tackling regional challenges through strategic realignment

    NASSAU, Bahamas — In a landmark closing address at the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) 56th Annual Meeting held in Nassau on 7 June 2026, CDB President Daniel Best announced a sweeping strategic realignment, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to confronting the Caribbean region’s most urgent development challenges and raising living standards for local communities.

    The policy shift comes after sustained pressure from a broad coalition of regional stakeholders, including youth leaders, national policymakers and industry advocates, who have called on the regional development lender to prioritize high-impact areas: youth capacity-building, professional skills training, climate resilience, and inclusive, sustainable economic expansion. For years, the bank has faced growing expectations to expand its support for the Caribbean’s development agenda, amid overlapping crises ranging from crumbling core infrastructure and unmet workforce readiness needs to rising global geopolitical uncertainty and accelerating climate-related disasters.

    Addressing delegates and regional leaders at the ceremony, President Best acknowledged the widespread concerns raised by stakeholders, confirming that the bank has heeded calls from its governing board and Caribbean youth for a more coordinated development approach and faster execution of ongoing institutional reforms and core strategic priorities. Against this backdrop, Best committed the CDB to accelerating action across all its operations, outlining the new direction: “by aligning our efforts across countries and partners, accelerating decision-making, and deploying practical solutions that translate policy into progress.”

    “Our focus is to move to implementation to impact, from plans to performance, and to ensure that every action we take delivers meaningful and lasting change for the Caribbean,” Best emphasized.

    Turning to the broader global context shaping the Caribbean’s outlook, Best noted the region continues to grapple with a cascade of interconnected challenges: escalating climate shocks, rising geopolitical tensions across major economies, persistent fiscal constraints for small island developing states, slowing global demand and growth, and the onset of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which brings annual risk of catastrophic damage to Caribbean coastal communities and infrastructure.

    “Friends, we arrived this week carrying the weight of a world in flux,” Best said. “These realities have not changed, but we continue to approach these challenges with collective purpose. Throughout this meeting, we listened to one another. We exchanged ideas and together we confronted some of the defining questions of our time.”

    President Best highlighted that the week’s deliberations centered on three core priorities: boosting regional competitiveness, strengthening systemic resilience to shocks, and expanding economic and social opportunities for current and future generations. Despite the stacked challenges facing the region, Best said a unifying, forward-looking consensus emerged from the talks.

    “The future of the Caribbean will not be determined by the challenges we face; it will be determined by the choices we make in response to them,” he stated.

    He also referenced opening remarks by Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis, who urged regional leaders to reject a mindset of merely enduring hardship. “Our goal cannot simply be to survive. Our mission is to thrive,” Best quoted Davis as saying.

    According to Best, this proactive, growth-focused philosophy is embedded in the CDB’s newly adopted 2026-2035 Strategic Plan, which guided all discussions during the annual meeting. “At its heart lies a simple proposition: resilience is not an end in itself. Resilience is the foundation upon which prosperity is built,” he explained.

    Under the restructured strategic agenda, the CDB will maintain its longstanding commitment to advancing economic, social, and environmental resilience, while elevating three priorities to the core of all operations: youth development, ambitious climate action, and institutional capacity-building for strong regional governance.

    Discussions held during the meeting’s Impact Room sessions reinforced a key insight for the bank: sustainable long-term development across the Caribbean cannot be funded through public sector resources alone. To fill financing gaps, Best noted that the region must ramp up efforts to mobilize cross-border private investment, strengthen local and regional entrepreneurship, and build a policy and regulatory environment that enables broad, investment-led economic growth.

    During breakout sessions focused on the CDB’s EDGEx initiative, participants also emphasized the growing critical role of robust data, evidence-based research, and shared knowledge in designing effective development policy and delivering measurable outcomes. Best stressed that Caribbean nations need to invest in modern, scalable national data systems, expand cross-border knowledge sharing, and leverage locally generated evidence to guide public decision-making and speed up the delivery of tangible development results.

    Finally, Best noted that discussions on climate finance reiterated a harsh reality long understood by Caribbean nations: the region, which contributes less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, bears a disproportionate share of climate change’s damaging impacts, and requires targeted, accessible climate finance to build resilience and reduce risk.

  • National Bank Partners with the Ministry of Environment as Official Sustainability Partner (June 5)

    National Bank Partners with the Ministry of Environment as Official Sustainability Partner (June 5)

    On June 5, 2026 — World Environment Day — a landmark public-private partnership launched at Basseterre’s Independence Square in St. Kitts, cementing a shared commitment to advancing national climate action and sustainable development across the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Ltd. (SKNANB), the nation’s leading locally owned financial institution, has been formally named the Official Sustainability Partner for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment’s 2026 Environment Month.

    This collaboration marks a major milestone in SKNANB’s long-term alignment with the Federation’s Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA), a national strategic framework that outlines seven core pillars to guide St. Kitts and Nevis toward becoming a fully resilient, self-sufficient nation by 2040. Unlike traditional one-off sponsorship arrangements, the bank frames this collaboration as an active, ongoing commitment rooted in the shared understanding that environmental stewardship is not a responsibility reserved exclusively for government bodies — it requires collective action from every sector of society, including the financial industry.

    Throughout Environment Month 2026, SKNANB will participate in a full slate of cross-national programming, including public awareness campaigns, community-led activation events, and educational outreach initiatives designed to embed sustainable practices across local households and neighborhoods. For the bank, this work goes far beyond symbolic support: officials emphasize that SKNANB is a partner in action, invested in building a livable future that the nation can truly depend on.

    At the core of the partnership is a set of new, accessible green financing products tailored to make sustainable lifestyle upgrades financially attainable for every family and household across the Federation. The first offering, Eco-Friendly Home Upgrade Financing, provides tailored funding for homeowners looking to invest in energy-efficient home improvements — ranging from residential solar panel installation to rainwater harvesting systems and other low-impact home enhancements. The second initiative, Green Vehicle Financing, lowers barriers for consumers transitioning to cleaner transportation by supporting the purchase of electric and hybrid vehicles, directly advancing the Federation’s national decarbonization targets.

    Both products are built around the core principle that sustainable choices should not be out of financial reach for ordinary residents. SKNANB has structured the offerings to be affordable and widely accessible, aligning with both the long-term economic health of the Federation and the protection of its unique natural environment. Officials note that the bank’s commitment does not end when Environment Month concludes: the institution plans to sustain its partnership with the ministry and continue advancing green finance initiatives through every step of the nation’s progress toward its 2040 SISA goals.

    As the leading premier financial institution in the Federation, SKNANB provides a full portfolio of personal, business, and community-focused financial products and services. The organization has long prioritized community development, robust corporate social responsibility, and cross-sector partnerships that deliver lasting positive impact to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

  • St. Kitts and Nevis: Your Ultimate Getaway Place for Peace – Georgia Online

    St. Kitts and Nevis: Your Ultimate Getaway Place for Peace – Georgia Online

    For modern travelers burnt out by the relentless pace of daily life and overcrowded, commercialized tourist hotspots, a new generation of travel seekers is prioritizing peace and authenticity over crowded attractions and flashy itineraries. Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea in the Eastern Caribbean, the twin-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis has emerged as the ideal destination for this growing group of discerning travelers, carving out a reputation as an unspoiled sanctuary that delivers both quiet relaxation and memorable, one-of-a-kind experiences.

    Unlike many popular Caribbean destinations that have become overrun by mass tourism, St. Kitts and Nevis retains a secluded, intimate atmosphere that still remains surprisingly accessible to global visitors. The primary gateway for international travelers is Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport on St. Kitts, which hosts both direct and connecting flights from major urban centers across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. For travelers coming from other parts of the Caribbean, convenient connecting routes through regional hubs make the final journey to the islands smooth and straightforward.

    High-end travelers arriving via private jet or luxury yacht are also fully catered to, with modern infrastructure and premium custom services designed exclusively for private travel. The islands’ well-appointed marinas and dramatic, scenic coastline have made them a favorite stop for private vessels cruising through the Caribbean, offering a safe, welcoming port of call with world-class amenities.

    Once visitors have set foot on the islands, traveling between St. Kitts and Nevis is quick, convenient, and even adds to the overall experience. Regular public ferry services and private water taxis run frequent short trips between the two islands, letting travelers explore the unique culture, landscapes, and attractions of both destinations during a single vacation without hassle or delay.

    The appeal of St. Kitts and Nevis stretches far beyond its convenient access and luxury amenities. Outdoor enthusiasts can meander along powdery, untouched beaches, hike the trails of St. Kitts’ dormant volcano to take in sweeping panoramic views that are home to a wealth of unique native wildlife, or dive into crystal-clear Caribbean waters for snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. Those seeking relaxation can unwind at high-end beachfront resorts, recharge at secluded wellness retreats, or tee off at well-maintained championship golf courses set against stunning backdrops of tropical greenery and ocean views.

    What truly sets this twin-island nation apart from other Caribbean getaways is its intentional commitment to avoiding mass tourism in favor of authentic, intimate experiences. Unlike crowded commercial destinations, St. Kitts and Nevis remains uncrowded, giving every visitor the rare feeling of discovering a hidden paradise rather than navigating a busy tourist circuit. The islands prioritize cultural and environmental preservation over overdevelopment, welcoming visitors as guests rather than customers, and leaning into the slow, peaceful rhythm of Caribbean island life.

    This philosophy makes St. Kitts and Nevis particularly attractive to a wide range of travelers: luxury seekers craving exclusive privacy, couples planning romantic honeymoons, wellness visitors looking to disconnect from digital and daily stress, and anyone craving time away from the pressures of modern life. Here, travelers can shift into a slower pace, reconnecting with what matters most: unrushed time, quiet peace, and genuine, unscripted moments. Whether it’s a private stargazing dinner with custom local cuisine, a private yacht cruise along the coastline, or a quiet afternoon spent walking an empty beach, every experience feels personal and meaningful rather than packaged for mass consumption.

    With a consistently pleasant tropical climate year-round, vast stretches of untouched natural landscape, and a dedication to authentic, low-impact travel, St. Kitts and Nevis has solidified its standing as one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations. For travelers who understand that true luxury is not found in flashy amenities, but in having the time and space to slow down and savor life’s quietest, most beautiful moments, St. Kitts and Nevis is more than just a vacation spot—it is a place to reset, reconnect, and experience peace not as a temporary escape, but as a way of life.

  • Ladies Night at Sabina Park: Free Entry for Women to 2nd ODI of the Sri Lanka Series

    Ladies Night at Sabina Park: Free Entry for Women to 2nd ODI of the Sri Lanka Series

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Cricket West Indies (CWI) has launched a fan-focused inclusive initiative to boost attendance and celebrate women supporters, announcing free general entry for all women attending the second One-Day International (ODI) between the West Indies and Sri Lanka at Kingston’s iconic Sabina Park on Saturday, June 6. Billed as a unique “Cricket in the Day, Party in the Night” experience, the special Ladies Night promotion is a core addition to CWI’s ongoing “WI OUTSIDE!” international home series campaign, which centers on re-engaging lapsed fans, building vibrant match-day culture, and amplifying the distinct electric energy that defines Caribbean cricket.

    Women seeking to claim the complimentary offer can collect free general stand tickets directly from the Sabina Park box office ahead of the match’s start. The promotion does not extend to premium Fan Zone or Party Stand seating. The opening pitch is scheduled for 2:30 p.m., with organizers encouraging early arrival to soak in a full afternoon of competitive cricket before the venue shifts to after-match party mode, featuring curated DJ sets, exclusive drink deals, and giveaways including tickets to the upcoming T20 International series against Sri Lanka.

    For the host West Indies team, the match carries added competitive stakes: the side will look to extend its strong recent ODI form and build critical series momentum in front of a cheering home crowd, setting the stage for a thrilling under-lights contest.

    CWI Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring explained that the Ladies Night initiative aligns with the organization’s dual goals of expanding access to top-tier cricket and delivering dynamic, fan-first entertainment experiences. “Ladies Night is about celebrating and rewarding the women who continue to stand with West Indies cricket, while crafting an enjoyable, memorable outing for both first-time attendees and long-time fans,” Dehring shared in an official statement. “As part of our “WI OUTSIDE!” campaign, we’re calling on everyone to gather, show their West Indian pride, and feel the unmatched excitement that only live international cricket can deliver.”

    The promotion comes on the heels of a wildly successful ISSA Day held during the opening ODI of the series on June 3, where hundreds of Jamaican school students attended the match for free through a partnership between CWI and the Jamaica Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA). Dehring noted that the turnout from that event was deeply encouraging, mirroring CWI’s broader push to make cricket accessible to young fans across the Caribbean this summer.

    “It was truly inspiring to see hundreds of school children pack Sabina Park for ISSA Day on Wednesday, getting to experience international cricket first-hand as part of our commitment to free entry for kids all summer,” Dehring added. “We hope to see that same bright energy and enthusiasm from the women of Jamaica on Saturday night. We want Sabina Park buzzing, so we encourage women across the country to take advantage of this special offer, bring their friends and family, and help us build an unforgettable atmosphere as the Maroon Men take on Sri Lanka.”

    Beyond the Ladies Night promotion, CWI has extended its youth accessibility commitment across the entire remaining home series. For all upcoming matches hosted across Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, any child aged 16 and under will receive free general admission when accompanied by an adult holding a paid match ticket.

  • Republic Bank’s Five for Fun lands in Barbados

    Republic Bank’s Five for Fun lands in Barbados

    Barbados has marked a new milestone for Caribbean grassroots cricket, as the Republic Bank Five for Fun youth cricket programme officially launched on the island this week, drawing hundreds of excited primary school students and leading sporting stakeholders to the ceremony. After rolling out to successful editions across five other Caribbean nations — St. Lucia, Guyana, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, and St. Kitts and Nevis — the 2026 expansion brings the popular initiative to Barbados for its first ever season, with 60 primary schools across the island already confirmed to participate.

    Tailored specifically for children aged 7 to 12, the Five for Fun programme is built on core principles of accessibility, joy, teamwork, and foundational skill-building, designed to introduce young participants to cricket in a low-pressure, engaging outdoor setting. The symbolic launch event took place on May 27 at Bridgetown’s iconic Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, drawing a roster of notable guests including senior leadership from the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), former West Indies international cricketers Vasbert Drakes and Kurt Wilkinson, current Barbados and West Indies national team player Chemar Holder, and student delegations from five local primary schools: Bayley’s Primary, Blackman and Gollop Primary, Good Shepherd Primary, West Terrace Primary, and Luther Thorne Memorial Primary. Senior leadership from Republic Bank Barbados, including Managing Director and CEO Carlene Seudat and senior management team members Steven Jordan, Sharon Zephirin, Joy Inniss, and Sasha Shillingford, also joined the ceremony to mark the occasion.

    Wendell Coppin, BCA’s Manager of Cricket Operations and Development, opened remarks by welcoming the cross-sector partnership, noting the programme’s core mission to nurture the next generation of regional cricket talent. “This year marks an exciting milestone as Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ makes its debut in Barbados. The Barbados Cricket Association is proud to partner with Republic Bank and Cricket West Indies in delivering this all-important primary school initiative,” Coppin said. “We are thrilled to have close to 60 schools participating in this inaugural year, with scheduled training sessions being conducted by coaches from the National Sports Council alongside Barbados Cricket Association coaches. Students will also have the unique opportunity to interact with and be inspired by visits from national senior team cricketers throughout the programme.”

    Coppin added that the initiative is expected to be a transformative boost to local grassroots cricket, with regional playoffs and a national championship on the horizon. “We believe this initiative will play an important role in strengthening grassroots cricket development in Barbados, and we are eagerly anticipating Zonal Playoff matches and the National Festival Finals carded for October, where the students will have the opportunity to showcase their progress and celebrate the spirit of the game,” he said.

    BCA Chief Executive Officer Paul Skinner echoed that praise, emphasizing that the Five for Fun programme is far more than a youth tournament — it is a core pillar of Barbados’ long-term national cricket development strategy. “This programme is not a standalone initiative, but a key component of the national cricket development strategy. Through the collaborative efforts of the Barbados Cricket Association and Cricket West Indies (CWI), alongside the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Sport, cricket clubs, and other sporting and cricketing organisations, we are committed to ensuring that the talented boys and girls emerging from this programme are provided with the training opportunities and competitive pathways necessary for both individual and collective growth,” Skinner explained. “It remains essential that national stakeholders continue to work together to ensure that cricket development pathways across the region are properly resourced, strengthened, and sustained for future generations.”

    Skinner extended particular gratitude to programme sponsor Republic Bank for its sustained investment in Caribbean youth. “To Republic Bank, we extend our sincere gratitude, as this initiative would not be possible without your unwavering commitment and shared belief in youth development. Your investment in the young people of Barbados and the wider Caribbean through the sport of cricket will not only be reflected in future appearances on some of the world’s biggest cricketing stages, but also in the cultivation of responsible, innovative, and progressive citizens who will make meaningful contributions to the advancement of our society,” he said.

    One of the most celebrated announcements of the launch came with a special financial incentive for all participating young cricketers: every student taking part in the programme will receive a brand-new RightStart savings account from Republic Bank Barbados pre-loaded with BBD $50, a reveal that drew enthusiastic applause from the student audience. Additional incentives are planned for top-performing teams: every member of the inaugural national championship-winning team will receive an extra BBD $200 deposited to their accounts, while runners-up will each get a BBD $150 credit.

    Seudat, Republic Bank Barbados’ CEO, spoke to the outlet’s long-term commitment to youth and community development across the Caribbean, framing the partnership as an investment in the region’s future. “At Republic Bank, we believe that building strong communities starts with investing in our youth. Today’s launch is not just about cricket. It is about opportunity, development, and shaping the future of our region, one child at a time,” Seudat said. “Here in Barbados and the West Indies, cricket is more than a sport. It is part of our identity. It is woven into our culture, our history, and our pride as a people. We have produced world-class players who have carried the West Indies flag with distinction. Players like Shai Hope, Carlos Brathwaite, Jason Holder, and Hayley Matthews, who began their journeys just like the children gathered here today, with a bat, a ball, and a dream.”

    The programme’s timeline kicks off with school-based training and coaching sessions running through June and July 2026. Zonal playoffs are scheduled for September 2026, with the National Festival Finals set to take place in October 2026. The launch ceremony was hosted by Republic Bank Barbados Ambassador Joel Manning. With the Barbados launch, the Republic Bank Five for Fun Programme has completed its 2026 rollout across all six planned Caribbean territories, cementing its status as one of the region’s most ambitious grassroots youth cricket initiatives in recent years.

  • BYD announced as Official Car Partner of CPL 2026

    BYD announced as Official Car Partner of CPL 2026

    Global new energy vehicle leader BYD has locked in its return as the Official Car Partner for the 2026 edition of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), marking a key milestone in the brand’s ongoing expansion across the Caribbean region.

    The 2026 CPL tournament will host matches across eight Caribbean nations, including six of BYD’s core regional markets: Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, and Saint Lucia. This partnership is built around aligning BYD’s core brand pillars of innovation, sustainability, and forward-thinking mobility with the cultural identity of the Caribbean, tying the company’s regional growth strategy to one of the area’s most beloved and high-profile sporting events.

    To maximize engagement with cricket fans and local communities, BYD has planned a full slate of cross-channel activations tied to the tournament. Beyond prominent branding and vehicle showcases across host stadiums, the brand will roll out interactive fan experiences, targeted digital marketing campaigns, and in-dealership events that bring the excitement of CPL directly to local consumers. In-dealership initiatives include official CPL viewing parties, exclusive test drive promotions, and limited-access fan experiences designed to create multiple touchpoints for consumers to explore BYD’s full lineup of electric vehicles.

    One of the most anticipated initiatives of the partnership is the “Wrap the Future: BYD x CPL Design Challenge”, a creative competition open to artists and designers across the Caribbean. The challenge invites participants to create custom vehicle wrap designs that merge three themes: the excitement of Caribbean cricket, the unique cultural identity of the region, and the future of sustainable mobility. Winning entries will be printed and applied to actual BYD vehicles, which will then be displayed at tournament matches, regional roadshows, and across the brand’s digital and social media channels, giving local creatives a high-profile platform to showcase their work.

    Overseeing on-the-ground execution of the full campaign is regional automotive group ATL Automotive, whose local teams across the Caribbean will coordinate with BYD to ensure consistent, large-scale delivery of all activations across every host market.

    Stephen Hector, Group Strategic Marketing and Digital Growth Director at ATL Automotive, emphasized the natural alignment between BYD’s brand mission and CPL’s cultural standing in the region. “Cricket remains one of the Caribbean’s greatest passions, and for BYD, this partnership creates a unique opportunity to connect with audiences through a platform that blends innovation, entertainment, energy, and community spirit,” Hector said. “As a global leader in electric mobility, BYD is proud to align with one of the region’s most dynamic sporting properties, reinforcing our commitment to smarter and more sustainable transportation while engaging fans across the Caribbean in meaningful ways. This partnership is a natural fit for BYD as a brand built on innovation and forward-thinking mobility, and we are excited about the opportunities this season will bring both on and off the field.”

    Dr. Tara Wilkinson-McLean, Head of Partnerships for the Caribbean Premier League, echoed that enthusiasm, welcoming BYD back to the 2026 tournament. “BYD’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and community engagement align perfectly with the values of the CPL and our vision for the continued growth of the tournament across the Caribbean,” Wilkinson-McLean noted. “The partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship, creating exciting opportunities for fans to engage with the brand through unique activations, experiences and initiatives such as the ‘Wrap the Future’ design challenge. We look forward to working closely with BYD and ATL Automotive to deliver a memorable campaign that celebrates both Caribbean cricket and the future of mobility.”

    Founded to accelerate the global transition to sustainable transportation, BYD is a world-leading manufacturer of electric vehicles and new energy mobility solutions, with operations in more than 100 countries and regions worldwide. This collaboration marks a key step in the brand’s strategy to embed itself within Caribbean communities while growing its market share in the region’s expanding electric vehicle sector. The partnership is expected to drive both broad brand awareness and tangible commercial growth for BYD across all participating markets, while adding new layers of fan engagement to the 2026 CPL tournament.

  • Government reinforces customs surcharge relief measure to help reduce cost-of-living burden on consumers

    Government reinforces customs surcharge relief measure to help reduce cost-of-living burden on consumers

    BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts – In a proactive push to shield local households and businesses from the global wave of soaring living costs, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has publicly reaffirmed its ongoing customs relief measures, highlighted by a full waiver of bunker and shipper surcharges from customs duty and tax calculations.

    Unveiled as a core component of the administration’s broader economic relief package rolled out in April 2026, the policy is intentionally structured to mitigate the ripple effects of spiking international fuel and freight expenses on the price of imported goods, which form a large share of everyday purchases for people across the island federation.

    Under current rules, customs duties and taxes are calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value of imported shipments. By excluding bunker and shipper surcharges – extra fees tied to sea and air transportation – from this valuation, the government has cut unnecessary tax liabilities that would otherwise be passed down to end consumers. This step directly addresses the reality that recent transportation cost hikes stem almost entirely from external economic forces outside the federation’s control: volatile global fuel markets and persistent international supply chain disruptions that have driven up living costs across nearly every region of the world.

    Officials note that by reducing the overall tax burden on imported products, the waiver delivers immediate relief to local importers, creating clear incentives for these businesses to pass their savings along to shoppers at the point of sale. The customs surcharge exemption is not a standalone policy; it is one piece of a coordinated, multi-pronged strategy to soften the blow of international economic shocks, stabilize domestic prices, and cushion both household budgets and local business operations against global volatility.

    Additional temporary relief measures currently in effect include a 50 percent cut to the excise tax on gasoline, a reduction in the Customs Service Charge on gasoline from 6 percent to 3 percent, and the full removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on eligible alternative energy equipment. All of these targeted interventions are designed to deliver tangible, immediate relief to working families and business owners while bolstering the nation’s long-term economic resilience to external shocks.

    All economic relief measures outlined by the government are scheduled to remain in effect through July 31, 2026. This public reminder comes as the administration continues to monitor global economic trends and adjusts its policy responses to protect the well-being of all citizens and residents of Saint Kitts and Nevis.