Basseterre – St. Kitts and Nevis: The Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew, has addressed the federation on the 42nd anniversary of Independence from Britain, which was celebrated on Sunday, September 19, 2025.
Dr. Drew reflected on the sacrifices of the Founding Fathers, and at the same time urged people to “embrace a future that is united, opportunity-filled and sustainable.”
In the same speech, he also provided a snapshot of some of his administration’s achievements, highlighted two rises in the minimum wage, pensions for government auxiliary workers, and climate-smart homes; better energy supply using renewable resources, and upgraded water supplies and infrastructure, such as new hospitals, schools, and roads.
It should be noted that the Prime Minister also stressed that these initiatives are not isolated, but part of a broader vision to build resilience and self-reliance across the federation. He pointed out that the government’s policies were planned to empower citizens, strengthen families, and ensure that economic growth translates into real benefits for ordinary people.
PM Terrance Drew also highlighted initiatives, including the ASPIRE program, which opened over 4,000 bank accounts and deposited $4.1 million to assist in youth programs, and the Budget Day Bonus Wallet that saw families receive $36 million in relief. More than 22,300 individuals received financial assistance from the government under BDBW.
The building of Joshua Obadiah Williams Primary School, renovations to Basseterre High School, along with work on the Kim Collins Athletic Stadium and Connery Football Stadium, were some other projects.
Also, Prime Minister Drew noted that they are battling persistent issues with great resiliency, such as inflation, climate change, and global concerns. Because we know we are, we confront them with strength rather than fear. He said, “We are people who have persevered, who have called us to unity and revealed my brothers and sisters’ independence.”
