Sustainable future aims to build resilient St Kitts and Nevis: PM Drew

St Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister of the country, Terrance Drew delivered an address at the New Year’s Grand Gala, referring to sustainable tomorrow as their commitment towards building resilient St Kitts and Nevis.

In his address, the PM mentioned the year 2024 as a year of transformation and growth as there is a lot which will be unveiled for fresh and the realization of shared dreams for a brighter tomorrow. Also, added seven pillars of the agenda which include food security, green energy, economic diversification, sustainable industries, the creative economy, Covid 19 recovery and social protection.

All these seven pillars will serve as a foundation upon which the prosperous future for all the citizens of the federation. This is the vision of the country for 2024 to meet the sustainable development goals.

“Vision without action is merely daydreaming, but the vision with action can change the world,” said PM Drew.

Further, he added that the people have also seen the actions of the government towards the mission and vision of becoming a sustainable island.

“And my dear brothers and sisters and citizens, 2024 will make evident the inevitable change as we unfold the fruits of the labour for the good that we can do,” mentioned the Prime Minister.

Following the changes, he mentioned that the government of the country has projected to reduce imports by 20% by 2025 which will have a greater contribution in transforming the sector. Also, the PM recalled the achievements and the plans of authorities in different sectors.

Considerably, the major aim is to build the economy for the people, of the people and by the people as said by the Prime Minister. This will lead towards major development through the general public’s trust in the Government.

Not only this, the authorities even allotted laptops to the students under a one to one laptop programme and back to school voucher initiatives to help parents with the costs. Additionally, the PM also highlighted the collaboration of the country with the Southern University to provide free or affordable education at various levels.

Focusing on another sector that is housing, he outlined the reduction in value added tax to certain citizens which include first time homeowners and the ones who are seeking renovations to their houses. Extending his address, he highlighted the government’s vision of constructing 2400 smart homes in the next four years. This will also generate employment in the region.

Having an emphasis on the sustainable future commitment, he highlighted the aim for the growth of the economy by 7.4% in the country this year. And, as the major part of the economy is contributed by the tourism sector, the workings in this as well has started.

The government in connection to this mentioned that they have already implemented a terminal equipment system and increased flights. He even presented the past recorded count of the visitors, which is more than 40,000 when compared to previous years.

Also, many other funds like children’s funds are to be started under which each child between the ages 5 and 18 will be provided with a fund of $1000 and $500 for their benefits. Further, he announced to the public to have a glance at the budget released for the year to have detailed information.