Last Updated on January 7, 2025, 5:01 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew and White House Advisor Raheemah Abdulaleem encouraged citizens and attendees of New Year’s Grand Gala to make a united effort to lead St Kitts and Nevis towards progress, sustainable growth and prosperity.
PM Drew addressed everyone at the Grand Gala and reflected over the past year’s achievements of St Kitts and Nevis stating that this journey of progress and growth requires team work while underscoring 2024 milestones like a 26% boost in tourism and over 1 million cruise visitors expected for the 2024 – 2025 season.
He further shared that the ASPIRE Programme has already empowered 2,300 youth since it was initiated, with initiatives in water security, renewable energy, housing, and healthcare, along with a 90 days campaign against crime that helped reduce reported crimes by 19% and a 66% reduction in firearm – related homicides.
Additionally, Raheemah Abdulaleem, keynote speaker at the Gala, shared an impactful speech about the power that sustainability and prosperity holds together and that they are not separate but interconnected goals.
She stated that St Kitts and Nevis can be a great example of building a nation with sustainable development and also praised the people of the twin island nation in keeping St Kitts and Nevis their priority when facing any challenge.
Using St Kitts and Nevis, she created an informative acronym on how using sustainable development, and eco-friendly resources, can lead St Kitts and Nevis to prosperity, unification, and development.
S – Support (sustainable development to build a prosperous future)
T – Treasure (natural beauty and resources of the island)
K – Keep sustainability at the heart of all decisions, plans, and new initiatives)
I – Inspire (inspire others to embrace sustainable environmental practices)
T – Trust (Trust the approach of society that is committed to protecting the environment)
T – Thrive by creating harmony between people and the environment
S – Sustainability (to create a safe future for coming generations)
N – Nurture, innovation, to create economic growth that respects the environment
E – Empower communities through education and sustainable livelihoods
V – Value the island’s cultural and natural heritage as a source of pride and prosperity
I – Invest in renewable energy, green industries, and eco-friendly infrastructure
S – Strengthen partnerships, to build resilience, and ensure long-term success
The Special Assistant to the President of the White House shared her experience, focusing on the importance of collaboration, and empowering communities in creating a more preserved future for coming generations.
She ended her address with an encouraging note to the citizens of St Kitts and Nevis to set an example that sustainability and prosperity can exist together.
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.
