Last Updated on April 11, 2025, 4:50 AM AST by Anthony Morris
St Kitts and Nevis: Citizens and residents of St Kitts and Nevis have decried the shameful behavior of the People’s Action Movement (PAM) following its recent attack on The Joy Project, a charitable initiative founded by Diani Jimesha Prince-Drew, wife of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew.
The Joy Project is designed to empower and uplift maternal health, bringing joy to the vulnerable members of society, especially children and mothers. PAM criticized the recent donation of laptops and mobile devices by The Joy Project to nurses serving as the Federation’s first Maternal Care Navigators, raising the concerns of transparency.
However, the citizens have expressed concern over the tone and intent behind recent criticisms leveled by PAM. According to them, the project is a progressive approach to improve maternal healthcare across the islands. The project was announced on World Health Day and welcomed by many as a much-needed show of support for frontline healthcare workers and vulnerable sections of society.
It is to be noted that across the Caribbean and globally, it is not uncommon for spouses of Heads of Government to engage in charitable work. Several of them were often seen using their platforms to extend their assistance to different sectors ranging from education and maternal health to climate change and youth development.
In the case of Prince Drew, citizens lauded her efforts, adding that the step is far aligned with this international tradition. The main aim of the Joy Project is to provide assistance in filling crucial gaps in maternal care, offering tools and visibility to a sector that often lacks adequate attention.
Notably, the contribution of the spouses of Heads of State and Government is a common practice in philanthropic and charitable initiatives across the globe. From Michelle Obama to Princess Kate, these women have used their positions to launch such kind of projects that bring real relief and support to underserved communities.
According to the citizens, Prince-Drew has chosen to do the same in St Kitts and Nevis which should be celebrated, not questioned.
The citizens also extended their support to the project and criticized PAM for their allegations as it was considered a noble effort that aligns with a motive to support the citizens. The citizens added that the Joy Project is not about politics—it is about people.
Citizens have also expressed concerns over the approach of PAM, stating that a long-standing political party like PAM should not make efforts to target a woman who is volunteering her time and effort to uplift others.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
