Last Updated on September 19, 2024, 2:29 PM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis Dr Terrance Drew addressed the citizens, residents, and friends from near and far, on the occasion of their 41st Independence Day, on September 19, 2024 and wished them all a Happy Independence Day.
PM Drew presented the address at what was once Bayford’s Estate in St Peter’s Parish. He expressed a sense of belongingness commending the views of Basseterre and surrounding communities and the sister isle of Nevis in the background.
He highlighted that this Independence is not just about freedom of economy or agriculture, it is also about freedom to live in peace, safety, and security.
Prime Minister Drew mentioned about the nation’s drive to achieve food security and the commitment to the CARICOM 25 by 25 Agenda. In addition to this, he also stated about the increasing crime and violence and said that, “WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER.”
The fight against crime is not just the responsibility of the government, but also of every citizen of St Kitts and Nevis. All must do their part to create a safer, more peaceful nation.
He said that he believes in resilience, strength, and spirit of the people of the nation despite the challenges faced by them.
“On September 19th, 1983, when we raised our beautiful national flag, we heralded our political independence. Since then, we have embarked on a journey toward economic independence, with a single aim: to raise the standard of living for our people and provide every Kittitian and Nevisian with the opportunity for a better quality of life.”
Notably, Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew expressed the delight of achieving significant milestones in the last year alone such as the raising of minimum wage, increase of social security pension, pensions to the GAEs and more.
He said that these progressive efforts have transformed the nation into a truly independent and peaceful nation.
In addition to this, the Prime Minister has also said there is a ground for much more change to make the nation a sustainable one. He addressed the citizens and said that the nation is not without challenges but the progress is made.
Significantly, the changes that will be made are:
- Completion of modern MRI Centre at JNF Hospital
- Construction of a new climate-smart JNF General Hospital
- Construction of the new Basseterre High School
- Construction of Joshua Obadiah Williams Primary School
- Completion of St Peter’s Main Road
- Completion of Conaree Football Stadium
- Development of climate-smart housing solutions
The good things are happening in the nation and everyone should stay optimistic and focused.
Concluding his address, PM Dr Drew reflected on the journey of 41 years and paid a tribute to the legacies of all those who sacrificed for the country. Together, a People, Proud and Strong- this is the identity, strength, and the promise for the future of the St Kitts and Nevis.
“Once again, HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY and may god bless our beautiful twin island Federation of St Kitts and Nevis.”
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.
