PM Drew: 2025 Will Be “Transformative” For St. Kitts and Nevis

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew’s $1.127 billion Budget for 2025 has outlined a robust financial plan to drive economic growth, strengthen national security, and modernise critical sectors across St. Kitts and Nevis. The Budget, comprising $885.0 million in Recurrent Expenditure and $209.4 million in Capital Expenditure, presneted a clear plan for strategic investment in the Federation’s future.

National Security and Infrastructure Take Centre Stage

A significant focus of the 2025 Budget is enhancing citizen security, a pillar of the government’s vision for a sustainable island state. The Ministry of National Security, Citizenship, and Immigration has been allocated $85.6 million, marking a 7.9% increase from 2024. This funding will support critical initiatives, including the Safety and Security Improvement Programme, police station refurbishments, a state-of-the-art CCTV surveillance system, and the Disaster Resilience Improvement Project.

“Our Government remains steadfast in our commitment to the safety and security of our citizens, ensuring our communities thrive in a secure environment,” Minister of Finance, Dr. Terrance Drew said as he epmhasised the importance of these investments.

Social Development and Gender Affairs

The Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs will receive $41.7 million in Recurrent Expenditure and $2.0 million in Capital funding. This allocation supports community-oriented initiatives, such as upgrading community centres, constructing new administrative buildings, and enhancing youth-focused facilities under the New Horizons Programme.

Agriculture and Fisheries Bolstered

The agriculture sector is poised for growth with a proposed $19.4 million for Recurrent Expenditure and $14.9 million for Capital projects—an impressive 58.7% increase from 2024. Key initiatives include upgrading farming equipment, developing the Bayford’s Livestock Centre of Excellence, and improving fisheries management. Investments will also advance cannabis research, pest control programmes, and infrastructure rehabilitation at fisheries complexes.

Tourism and Sustainable Development

Sustainable tourism development takes priority with a 92.7% increase in Recurrent Expenditure, totalling $53.3 million for the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, and International Transport. A further $10.2 million in Capital funding will drive initiatives such as coastal erosion mitigation, beach enhancement projects, and the refurbishment of Pelican Mall. The establishment of the Eco-Park as a dedicated tourism unit signals a renewed focus on conservation and responsible tourism practices.

“Our approach to tourism emphasises sustainability, ensuring that our natural beauty and cultural heritage remain a beacon for visitors while benefitting our citizens,” stated Prime Minister Drew.

Education Modernisation: Investment in Schools

The Ministry of Education will see a 10.5% increase in Recurrent Expenditure, totalling $107.5 million, with $12.9 million allocated for Capital projects. These funds will support critical infrastructure and modernisation initiatives, including:

• Reconstruction of the Joshua Obadiah Williams Primary School: A state-of-the-art facility will replace the existing structure to provide a safe and modern learning environment for students.
• Construction of the New Basseterre High School: This long-awaited project aims to deliver a cutting-edge secondary school with advanced facilities.
• Secondary School Electrical Upgrade (Phase 1): Schools will benefit from improved electrical systems to enhance safety and accommodate new technology.
• Renovations at Washington Archibald High School: Bathroom, roof, and window upgrades will improve sanitation, security, and overall infrastructure.
• Enhanced Education Network Project: This initiative will boost IT connectivity across schools, equipping students and teachers with reliable access to digital learning resources.
• Upgraded School Bathrooms: Facilities in schools across the island will be modernised to ensure hygienic and functional spaces for students and staff.
• Advanced Vocational Education Centre Enhancements: Investments in vocational education will prepare students for technical careers through modernised equipment and facilities.
• New School Bus Purchase: A dedicated bus will ensure safer and more efficient transport for students, addressing logistical challenges in the education system.

These targeted investments underscore the Government’s commitment to fostering a secure, inclusive, and progressive learning environment for the nation’s youth.

Health Sector Transformation

With $86.8 million proposed for Recurrent Expenditure and $17.6 million for Capital projects, the Ministry of Health plans to modernise healthcare services. Projects include the construction of the new climate smart Joseph N. France General Hospital, a health centre in St. Peter’s, and the acquisition of medical equipment to bolster the quality of care.

“Our vision for healthcare is rooted in resilience and innovation, ensuring that every citizen has access to world-class medical services,” Prime Minister Drew remarked.

Public Infrastructure and Utilities

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure will oversee transformative projects with $25.6 million in Recurrent Expenditure and $79.1 million for Capital investments—a 28.2% increase from 2024. Key initiatives include slope stabilisation, road improvements, reservoir construction, and the establishment of a desalination plant to address water shortages.

A Vision for Prosperity

The 2025 Budget underscores the Government’s commitment to sustainable development, economic diversification, and citizen well-being. By prioritising security, education, healthcare, and infrastructure, St. Kitts and Nevis aims to chart a course toward resilience and prosperity.

“Our Budget reflects a comprehensive strategy to meet the needs of our people while paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future,” Dr. Drew told the nation as he spoke from the Parliament on 20th Deember.

The ambitious financial plan signals a transformative year ahead, positioning St. Kitts and Nevis as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and social development in the Caribbean.