Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew used his World AIDS Day address to deliver a clear warning that global funding cuts now threaten essential HIV services in St. Kitts and Nevis, calling for decisive national action to safeguard the gains made toward ending AIDS by 2030. Speaking on 1st December, 2025, he stressed that the theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response” reflects growing challenges that demand renewed focus and investment.
“The truth is simple,” Dr. Drew declared. “If external funding continues to decline, our progress will stall, and the people who rely on these critical services will bear the consequences. We cannot and will not allow that to happen.”
He noted that while the national HIV/AIDS programme receives strong technical support from PAHO and PANCAP, much of its operating strength is tied to the multi-country Global Fund Grant. The most recent agreement, signed in May 2025, pledged over USD $56,000 to the Federation—but this contribution is now uncertain due to global donor cuts. “The threat to this support puts pressure on us to step up, increase domestic investment, and forge new partnerships that keep our people protected,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted global figures showing 40.8 million people living with HIV in 2024, with 1.3 million new infections and 630,000 deaths. St. Kitts and Nevis recorded 238 people living with HIV, 19 new diagnoses, and three AIDS-related deaths during the same year. “Every life counts, every diagnosis matters, and every death is one too many,” he emphasised. He raised particular concern about rising infections among young people aged 15 to 24, calling it “a warning sign we cannot ignore.”
Dr. Drew reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to a response grounded in equity, human rights, and strict confidentiality. He praised the National HIV/AIDS Secretariat for its work across the prevention and treatment spectrum, noting achievements such as the continued elimination of mother-to-child transmission since 2017 and expanded access to PrEP. “We have built a system that protects privacy, delivers modern medication for free, and treats every individual with dignity. That is non-negotiable.”
He also stressed the importance of early detection and adherence support. “HIV is no longer a death sentence. With treatment, people can achieve an undetectable viral load and live long, healthy lives. But we must get tested, we must know our status, and we must take treatment seriously.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Dr. Drew urged citizens to act responsibly during the Christmas and Carnival season. “Testing is free. Condoms are free. Protection is your responsibility. Make wise choices—not only for yourself, but for the people you love.”
He extended gratitude to local partners, including SKN Alliance and SKN Care, for their support among vulnerable groups. “Ending AIDS by 2030 is not a government goal—it is a national mission. We all have a role, and together we will achieve it.”
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