Last Updated on April 27, 2025, 12:32 PM AST by Anthony Morris
The Government of St Kitts and Nevis has officially launched the new office of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority at Prince’s Street in Basseterre on Friday, April 25, 2025. This groundbreaking initiative aims to improve public health, economic growth, and social justice marking a huge milestone in the Federation’s push to put in place a regulated, responsible and inclusive medicinal cannabis industry.
During the launch ceremony, Chairperson of the Cannabis Board Jihan Williams-Knight stated that the Authority’s main function is to put in place and run safe legal structures for access to cannabis for adult patients over 21, identified as having health issues which may not be improved with cannabis.
She further emphasized the Authority’s dual role to push for access and education while at the same time to be watchful in regard to misuse of the drug and also to protect vulnerable groups.
Minister Samal Duggins welcomes the launching ceremony
The Minister of Agriculture and the head of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority, Samal Duggins also attended the launching ceremony and called it a bold step forward in terms of culture and economy.
“We stand at a truly exciting moment, entering the global medicinal cannabis industry with the advantage of insight, experience, and readiness,” said Minister Duggins.
He further added that by learning from others, they have put together a very thought out and strategic approach which is uniquely their own.
He also noted the very long term struggle by the Rastafarian community, which was recognized with a large-scale policy action in support of them.
Minister Duggins said that under the Rastafari Rights Recognition Act 2023, the Authority has decided that there will be no licensing fees for Rastas. This is not the creation of a program but a stand for fairness, respect, and historical acknowledgement.
Government Pledges Transparency and Progress
At the event Acting Prime Minister, Dr Geoffrey Hanley and Attorney General Garth Wilkin put forth strong support for the government which is to run a very open and transparent medicinal cannabis industry.
The Medical Cannabis Authority is a new age of progressive policy which we see is rooted in science, community advocacy, and national development.
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.
