The government of St. Kitts and Nevis is taking decisive action to address the persistent water shortages caused by climate change, with a significant increase in the proposed budget allocation for the 2025 fiscal year. This commitment, highlighted by Konris Maynard, Minister responsible for the Water Services Department (WSD), reflects a focused strategy to improve water security and access nationwide.
Addressing Historical Neglect
During the Budget Debate on 19th December, 2024, Minister Maynard detailed the dramatic rise in budgetary allocations for water services under the Labour government. He contrasted this with what he described as inadequate funding by the previous administration, which allocated just $8.5 million in 2022 despite worsening water challenges.
“Since taking office in August 2022, we have made it a priority to invest meaningfully in water infrastructure. In 2023, the budget increased to $22.7 million. In 2024, it was raised again to $38.6 million, and for 2025, we are proposing $44.2 million. That’s a 400 percent increase in just two years,” Minister Maynard emphasised, demonstrating the government’s commitment to meeting the needs of its citizens and residents.
Strategic Actions to Enhance Water Access
Minister Maynard outlined several critical initiatives aimed at improving water access and reliability. Among these is the reinstatement of the Water Advisory Board, which had been inactive for many years. This body now plays a pivotal role in guiding water management strategies.
In addition, a 24-hour water hotline service was established to respond to public concerns more efficiently, and the government has invested in identifying and tapping new underground water sources. These efforts have already borne fruit, with the commissioning of the Cayon well in May this year, significantly alleviating long-standing water challenges in that community.
To further strengthen water storage and distribution, a one-million-gallon water storage facility is planned for construction in Cayon.
Innovative Approaches to Resource Exploration
The government is also leveraging technology to identify untapped water resources. A drone-based airborne geophysical survey is currently underway to map potential underground water sources, marking a forward-thinking approach to resource exploration.
Additional measures include replacing outdated pipes on the northern side of St. Kitts to improve water delivery, constructing two desalination plants to provide alternative water sources, and building a treatment plant in Shadwell to ensure water quality meets high standards.
A Unified Approach to a Sustainable Future
Minister Maynard’s presentation highlighted the government’s acknowledgement of climate change’s impact on water security and its determination to address these challenges head-on. “Our investments are not just about solving today’s problems but building resilience for tomorrow,” he said.
The West Basseterre Member of Parliament also commended the collaborative efforts of the Water Services Department, other government agencies, and international partners in advancing these projects. This collective commitment, he noted, is essential to ensuring that every citizen and community in St. Kitts and Nevis has reliable access to clean and safe water.
Photo: Government ministers were joined by Cayon residents for the commissioning of the new well in May 2024.
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