Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew’s administration has garnered praise from Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s (ECCB) Governor Timothy Antoine for its inclusive, forward-thinking approach in preparing the national budget for 2025.
Speaking at the Budget 2025 National Forum held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort on 30th October, Governor Antoine lauded the government’s commitment to transparency and public engagement in financial planning.
“These consultations are an instrument of good governance,” Governor Antoine said, commending the Drew administration for inviting voices from the public, private sector, civil society, and even students from the C. F. Bryant College to shape the national agenda. “Involving citizens and stakeholders in discussions not only ensures better decisions but also strengthens the social contract,” he added.
Governor Antoine’s keynote address, entitled “Innovation, Inclusivity, and Sustainability: Our Path Forward,” outlined three core strategies essential for the Federation’s evolution into a sustainable island state. These include cultivating a growth-oriented mindset, building a supportive policy framework, and securing investment to drive forward-thinking projects. Each of these areas, he noted, will be critical as St. Kitts and Nevis advances towards a resilient and innovative future.
Highlighting specific pillars of economic development, such as digital transformation, energy security, food security, and wealth creation, Governor Antoine praised the Drew administration’s new Achieving Success through Personal Investment, Resources, and Education (ASPIRE) initiative. ASPIRE is designed to educate and empower youth in financial literacy, investing, and savings, setting a foundation for future economic stability and wealth-building in the Federation.
“It aligns perfectly with what we at the ECCB envision—a culture where young people are trained to invest wisely,” he stated. “Currently, only four percent of citizens in our currency union are invested in the regional and international markets. By nurturing a generation of investors, St. Kitts and Nevis is not just building individual wealth but paving the way for long-term economic empowerment.”
Governor Antoine cited the staggering $25 billion sitting in savings across the currency union, highlighting the importance of ASPIRE in mobilising these resources. By encouraging youth engagement with regional and global financial markets, the initiative is expected to foster economic growth that benefits the entire Federation.
The ECCB governor underscored that the Drew administration’s Sustainable Island State Agenda requires the full backing of society to ensure its success. “For a smooth and effective transition, everyone—citizens, businesses, and institutions alike—must commit to this shared vision,” he concluded.
As St. Kitts and Nevis moves forward under Prime Minister Drew’s leadership, the administration’s inclusive approach, guided by both innovation and sustainability, is setting a promising foundation for the future. Governor Antoine’s endorsement signals regional confidence in the Federation’s direction, as the government continues to empower its people and strengthen its economy.
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