Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew’s administration is advancing a multi-faceted approach to sustainable development, focusing on water security, renewable energy, and agricultural diversification. Speaking at the 2025 Budget National Forum on 30th October, Dr. Drew outlined transformative initiatives aimed at safeguarding St. Kitts and Nevis from climate vulnerabilities while boosting economic resilience.
Emphasising clean water as a cornerstone of his administration’s environmental strategy, Dr. Drew highlighted the government’s commitment to modern desalination technology, with two new desalination plants now under construction.
“One of these plants will be powered by solar energy,” the prime minister noted, underscoring the importance of renewable solutions in addressing the nation’s potable water challenges.
With climate change exerting increasing pressure on the Federation’s water resources, the desalination plants, combined with private sector-led reverse osmosis techniques in the tourism sector, aim to provide a reliable and sustainable water supply.
Dr. Drew also spotlighted renewable energy as a crucial driver of economic stability and growth. Through the Street Lighting Programme, conventional streetlights have been replaced with energy-efficient LEDs, significantly reducing power consumption across the island. At a broader level, the government is progressing on its mission to transition from fossil fuels to a diverse mix of solar and geothermal energy, a plan that has gained endorsement from international financial bodies.
“We concur with the IMF that ‘a successful transition to renewable energy would have a profound impact on the economy,’” Dr. Drew asserted, highlighting the potential for reduced fuel imports, lower energy costs, and increased export opportunities.
Agricultural advancement is another focus of the government’s Sustainable Islands State Agenda, and Dr. Drew expressed optimism about the Federation’s potential in emerging sectors.
“The development of the Cannabis Industry in St. Kitts could improve the scope of traditional crop production,” he said, pointing to both medical and economic gains from this strategic growth area.
The government’s collaboration with Tabasco and local pepper farmers is another example of how public-private partnerships can fuel agricultural development, allowing local farmers to access new markets and expand production capabilities.
Dr. Drew also praised the early successes of the CARICOM “25 by 25” initiative, which equips farmers with essential resources, from ground preparation and irrigation systems to technical support. This programme, aimed at increasing local food production by 25 percent by 2025, is designed to foster a more self-sufficient agricultural sector and reduce reliance on food imports to the region. As the Ministry of Agriculture prepares for potential surpluses, it is actively exploring processing and preservation solutions to ensure that excess production can be marketed and utilised efficiently.
Prime Minister Drew’s comprehensive vision underscores a commitment to a future where sustainable practices underpin economic growth. Through these bold initiatives, St. Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable development, showcasing how forward-thinking investments can secure long-term prosperity and resilience for its citizens.
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