AGP Executive Report

Water & Climate Preparedness: NEMA is urging residents and businesses to stay vigilant as drought conditions persist alongside the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, warning that El Niño-linked dryness could keep biting into water, health, farming and the economy. 24/7 Water Push: In Parliament, PM Terrance Drew reiterated the drive for reliable 24-hour water access, citing over EC$60 million invested in drilling, desalination, storage, distribution upgrades and equipment to build long-term drought resilience. Justice Reform: The Federation passed the Evidence (Amendment) Bill, 2026, updating DNA evidence rules with safeguards to balance modern forensics and human rights. Banking Consumer Protection: The Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was also passed, strengthening disclosure, data protection, fair treatment and consumer rights across ECCU banking. Maritime & Tourism Growth: Nautical Kickstart St. Kitts & Nevis brings global yachting stakeholders together June 12–13 to position the Federation as a premier yachting destination. Education & Skills: CWIT construction students are getting hands-on training through real concrete works, while Monroe University graduates are celebrated for major academic milestones. Traffic & Safety: Police warned against sidewalk parking that blocks pedestrians and damages curbs and drainage, especially around busy downtown areas. Sports: The 2026 Women’s League kicks off this Sunday with the President’s Cup.

Middle East Shock to Caribbean Costs: UN chief António Guterres warned that renewed US-Iran strikes and wider Gulf attacks are driving up food and oil prices, stoking inflation and slowing growth—raising fresh pressure for import-dependent Caribbean economies. Water Crisis Fallout: Former Deputy PM Shawn Richards hit back at claims he supported higher water rates, saying he made no proposal and calling the controversy a distraction from worsening shortages in places like Sandy Point and St. Peter’s. Housing Scandal Returns: Concerned citizens say the East Coast Housing Development project is still mired in alleged wrongdoing, including a “fraudulent” government guarantee and failure to deliver 600 serviced lots per year, with the matter in court. Tourism Boost in Summer: Rhapsody of the Seas made its first off-season call to Port Zante, starting nine scheduled visits and bringing about 2,360 passengers. Regional Tourism Visa Pressure: CHTA president-elect Gregor Nassief’s US visa renewal was denied, sparking debate across the region about how tighter Washington rules tied to citizenship-by-investment could affect tourism leadership and travel. Food Security Push: St. Kitts and Nevis received 480 parent-stock chicks (400 hens, 80 roosters) to strengthen the local poultry layer industry. Traffic Safety Warning: Police urged motorists to stop parking on sidewalks, saying it damages curbs and drainage and endangers pedestrians. Defence Force Modernisation: SKNDF launched a new digital combat uniform for the June 10, 1967 anniversary, with a parade through Basseterre. Education and Scholarships: Monroe University graduates from St. Kitts and Nevis were celebrated, including multiple Summa Cum Laude honours.

Visa & Travel: Minister Colm Brophy says new visa rules take effect Monday, 15 June 2026 for Nicaraguan, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia nationals travelling to Ireland, including a transit visa if you’re passing through. Cruise Tourism: Rhapsody of the Seas made its first 2026 summer call to Port Zante on June 10, bringing about 2,360 passengers and kicking off nine scheduled visits through September. Defence & National Commemoration: The St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force launched a new digital combat uniform in a parade marking the 59th anniversary of the 10 June 1967 attempted overthrow. Public Safety & Community: Police confirmed missing Chinese national Ziyuan Wang died from injuries in an accidental fall, ruling out foul play. Cost of Living: Government reiterated customs surcharge relief, including waiving bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations. Environment & Food Security: Environment Month was officially launched under a climate-action theme, while the Greenhouse Village Initiative is being shifted toward a more structured, centralised approach for hurricane-resilient farming. Sports & Youth: SKNOC highlighted international participation for athlete education and welfare, and the Youth Summit 2026 was launched with plans to engage ages 7–21 across key national areas.

Defence & National Memory: St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force marked June 10’s 59th anniversary of the 1967 attempted overthrow of the Bradshaw government with a ceremonial parade and the launch of a new digital combat uniform, marching from Warner Park to Camp Springfield after remarks at Government Headquarters. Police & Community: Police confirmed missing Chinese national Ziyuan Wang died from injuries sustained in an accidental fall; officials said a post-mortem found no evidence of foul play. Public Notices & Culture: Ahead of the official funeral of Elston “King Ellie Matt” Nero on June 11, the RSCNPF issued a Basseterre traffic advisory, with viewing expected from 12:00 p.m. at Newtown Playfield and the procession starting 10:30 a.m. Environment & Food Security: Environment Month kicked off June 5 under “Inspired by Nature for Climate Action for Our Future,” while the Greenhouse Village Initiative is being shifted toward a more structured, centralised model to keep climate-smart farming running through hurricane season. Sports & Youth: SKNOC staff and delegates continued international Olympic education work in Greece, and SKNFA’s Women’s and Girls’ Football Festival drew a record turnout as the federation gears up for the next competitions. Tourism & Cost of Living: Government reiterated customs surcharge relief measures to ease import costs, as St. Kitts Tourism Authority and partners launched national beach cleanups for the off-season.

Public Safety & Community Mourning: The Royal St. Kitts and Nevis Police Force has issued a traffic advisory for the Official Funeral of cultural icon Elston “King Ellie Matt” Nero on Thursday, June 11, with viewing and tributes starting 12:00 p.m. at Newtown Playfield, Basseterre, and the procession departing Jenkins Funeral Home at 10:30 a.m. along a detailed Basseterre route. Cost-of-Living Relief: Government is reminding residents and businesses that customs relief measures remain in effect, including waivers of bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations to ease pressure from global fuel and freight costs. Defence & National Day Commemoration: The St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force launched a new combat uniform with a ceremonial parade through Basseterre, timed to mark the 59th anniversary of the 1967 overthrow attempt. Entrepreneurship & Skills: The Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship has kicked off the second cohort of the Building Bankable Businesses Financial Literacy Program, a 10-week push to help entrepreneurs with budgeting, planning, record-keeping and banking relationships. Sports Development: SKNFA hosted a Women’s and Girls’ Football Festival at the National Bank Group Technical Centre, drawing nearly 70 participants and building momentum toward upcoming competitions. Renewable Energy Push: Work continues on a structured push toward 100% renewable electricity generation, with a national energy roadmap supported by the EU and UNDP.

Sports & Youth: Dani Wyatt-Hodge says she’s “on cloud nine” after the birth of her daughter as England begin their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign, with Wyatt-Hodge returning to the squad after maternity leave. Tourism & Culture: The Federation is gearing up for its Summer of Fun, including the St. Kitts Music Festival (June 25–27) and Culturama 52 (July 23–Aug 4), while the St. Kitts Tourism Authority and government launch a national beach cleanup drive to boost sustainable off-season tourism. Education & Skills: A St. Kitts drone entrepreneur celebrates earning a BSc in Computer Information Systems, and Nevis signs a strategic education and sport partnership with G.C. Foster College. Energy & Environment: Government moves toward 100% renewable electricity with a national transition roadmap workshop, while World Environment Day messaging ties renewable energy and water security to long-term resilience. Justice & Public Safety: A UNDP-backed restorative justice and criminal mediation training programme begins at Koi Resort, and the Attorney General again points to alternatives to detention. Local Economy & Governance: PAM renews pressure for binding water security laws, and customs relief surcharge waivers are set to continue until end of July. International Spotlight: Adeola Moore represents St. Kitts and Nevis at the Inter-American Ports meeting in Barbados, and Nevis launches the Caribbean’s first space life sciences experiment.

Renewable Energy Push: St. Kitts and Nevis has launched a consultative process to build a 100% renewable electricity roadmap, funded by the EU via Euroclima Caribbean and delivered with UNDP and Greening the Islands, aiming to cut emissions by 61% by 2030 and strengthen energy security. Justice Reform: The Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, with UNDP, started a 10-day Restorative Justice and Criminal Mediation training at Koi Resort, focused on accountability, dialogue, rehabilitation, and practical conflict-handling skills. Public Safety & Policing: Attorney General Garth Wilkin renewed calls for alternatives to detention, while PM Terrance Drew congratulated newly confirmed police officers and promoted women to senior ranks. Youth & Sports Diplomacy: Adeola Moore represented the Federation at the Inter-American Ports meeting in Barbados, while St. Kitts and Nevis youth and sports delegates are in Greece for the Young Olympic Ambassadors session. Entrepreneurship & Skills: The second cohort of the Building Bankable Businesses financial literacy programme kicked off, and SKNFA launched a free C License coaching course to boost local coach capacity. Cost of Living & Water Pressure: Customs relief surcharges remain waived until end of July, but St. Kitts’ water crisis is again hitting households with days of unreliable supply. Culture & Tourism Calendar: Sugar Mas 55’s full schedule is out, and Nevis Culturama 52/53 sashing ceremonies have officially started the race to the crown.

Entrepreneurship & Finance: The Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship has launched the second cohort of its 10-week “Building Bankable Businesses” financial literacy programme in Basseterre, delivered by Alex Straun with the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank, training entrepreneurs in budgeting, business planning, record keeping, and banking relationships. Justice & Banking Regulation: The Court of Appeal delivered a major ruling in the Boni case, saying the banking regulator lacked legal authority to impose a US$120,000 fine, after examining the regulator’s power under the Nevis International Banking Ordinance. Energy & Climate Resilience: St. Kitts and Nevis has advanced its push for 100% renewable electricity by 2030, launching a consultative roadmap workshop with UNDP and the Greening the Islands Foundation, including Nevis’ renewable transition priorities. Cost of Living Relief: Government says customs relief measures—waiving bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations—will stay in place until end of July to reduce pressure from global fuel and freight costs. Water Crisis: Residents report worsening shortages in St. Kitts, with hundreds of households facing days without reliable running potable water. Environment & Community: World Environment Day saw renewed government calls for action under the Sustainable Island State Agenda, alongside recycling efforts including a new recycling bin launch. Sports & Youth: Nevis’ Demarre Brown won the national chess championship and earned a spot at the 2026 FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand. Culture: Nevis Culturama 53 kicked off with a sashing ceremony introducing contestants for major pageants.

Renewable Energy Push: St. Kitts and Nevis has kicked off a two-day consultative workshop to build a Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap toward 100% renewable electricity by 2030, with EU funding and support from UNDP and the Greening the Islands Foundation. Cost-of-Living Relief: Government says customs relief measures—waiving bunker and shipper surcharges in customs tax and duty calculations—will stay in place until end of July to reduce the impact of global fuel and freight increases. World Environment Day: PM Terrance Drew used the occasion to reaffirm the Sustainable Island State Agenda, pointing to renewable energy and water security as key resilience pillars. Tourism Development: The Caribbean Tourism Supply Side Initiative was launched with Drew backing the push for resilience and inclusion, while SKTA CEO Kelly Fontenelle says St. Kitts and Nevis will target Latin America, focusing on visa-free travellers and B2B matchmaking. Nevis Innovation: Nevis launched the Caribbean’s first space life sciences experiment, studying how human immune cells react to gravity changes. Water Crisis: Residents report worsening water shortages in St. Kitts, with some households facing days without running potable water. Sports & Training: SKNFA launched a free C License coaching course, and Republic Bank’s Five for Fun cricket programme continues to roll out across the region.

Space & Science: Nevis has launched the Caribbean’s first space life sciences experiment, sending immune-cell research into microgravity aboard a Sweden mission—an education and innovation milestone for the island. Public Safety & Leadership: The RSCNPF promoted nearly 30 officers, with Prime Minister Terrance Drew praising dedication and professionalism. Courts & Finance: The Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal delivered a major ruling in the Boni case, saying the banking regulator lacked legal authority to impose a US$120,000 fine. Water Crisis: St. Kitts’ water problems are worsening again, with hundreds of households reporting days without running potable water and frustration rising over official explanations. Cost of Living Relief: Government reiterated customs surcharge relief, including a waiver of bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations. Renewables & Environment: A Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap workshop kicked off to push St. Kitts and Nevis closer to 100% renewable electricity, while World Environment Day messages highlighted sustainability and climate action. Tourism & Business: SKTA CEO Kelly Fontenelle says St. Kitts and Nevis will target Latin America, and Nevis launched its “Spring Into Summer” campaign to boost off-season arrivals. Education & Community: Child Month 2026 was launched with a focus on good nutrition, movement and rest, and a financial management training programme began for small business owners.

Renewable Energy Push: St. Kitts and Nevis has kicked off a two-day consultative workshop to build a Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap toward 100% renewable electricity by 2030, with EU support and partners UNDP and Greening the Islands Foundation. Cost-of-Living Relief: Government reiterated customs surcharge relief, including a waiver of bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations to ease pressure from global fuel and freight costs. Environment Day Momentum: PM Terrance Drew marked World Environment Day, stressing choices today shape the future for children, while the National Bank was named Official Sustainability Partner for Environment Month 2026. Tourism & Investment: Nevis launched its “Spring Into Summer” campaign to boost off-season arrivals, and St. Kitts prepares to host the Investment Gateway Summit (June 17–20) bringing global investors to St Kitts Marriott. Local Economy & Skills: The Ministry of Small Business launched a financial management training programme for entrepreneurs, and SKNFA staged women’s football safeguarding and first-aid training ahead of the season. Culture & Community: Nevis officially sashed contestants for Culturama 52, and a St. Kitts student, Jacinth Hunkins, graduated in Taiwan with a Bachelor of Architecture for a bridge concept linking the islands. Regional Watch: CARICOM Heads of Government will meet in St Lucia July 5–8, with Drew set to speak at the opening ceremony.

Creative Economy & Youth: The Department of Creative Economy is advancing Project Xport, holding a casting call for “Project Xport: New Faces” to develop local modelling talent and connect creatives to regional and international opportunities. Environment & Community Action: On World Environment Day, the Department of Environment, Taiwan’s technical mission and Antioch Baptist Church launched a new recycling bin at Lime Kiln, marking the first church collaboration officially tied to the national recycling project. Investment & Tourism Push: St. Kitts and Nevis is set to host the Investment Gateway Summit 2026 (June 17–20) at St Kitts Marriott, aiming to attract high-net-worth investors and strengthen global business connections. Cost-of-Living Relief: Government reiterated customs surcharge relief, including a waiver of bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations, to reduce pressure from global fuel and freight costs. Renewable Energy Roadmap: A consultative workshop kicked off to build a Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap toward 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030, supported by the EU and implemented with UNDP and GTI. Child Month 2026: Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley opened Child Month 2026, focusing on good nutrition, movement and rest. Women’s Football: SKNFA and the Red Cross will run first aid and safeguarding training for women in football ahead of the new season. Regional Governance: CARICOM’s 51st Heads of Government meeting is scheduled for July 5–8 in St Lucia, with outgoing PM Terrance Drew set to speak at the opening ceremony.

Cost-of-Living Relief: The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis says customs relief is still in effect, including a waiver of bunker and shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations to reduce the impact of rising global fuel and freight costs on imported goods. Renewable Energy Push: A consultative workshop has begun to build a Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap, aiming to move the Federation closer to 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030, with EU funding and support from UNDP and the Greening the Islands Foundation. Environment Month Partnership: St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank has signed on as Official Sustainability Partner for Environment Month 2026, backing the Sustainable Island State Agenda. Child Month 2026: Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley launched Child Month 2026 with a focus on “Good Nutrition, Movement and Rest,” stressing parents’ roles in children’s wellbeing. Small Business Support: The Ministry of Small Business & Entrepreneurship has started a financial management training programme for entrepreneurs, covering budgeting, cash flow, record-keeping and planning. Women’s Football Welfare: SKNFA and the Red Cross will host first aid and safeguarding training for women in football ahead of the new season. Nevis Tourism Drive: Nevis launched “Spring Into Summer” to boost off-season arrivals with hotel offers, experiences and cultural events. Regional Governance: CARICOM’s 51st Heads of Government meeting is set for July 5–8 in Gros Islet, with an opening ceremony featuring outgoing Chair Terrance Drew and incoming Chair Philip J. Pierre.

Small Business Support: The Ministry of Small Business & Entrepreneurship has launched a financial management training programme for entrepreneurs, with sessions on budgeting, cash flow, record-keeping and strategic planning, backed by the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank. Cost-of-Living Relief: Government reminded residents that customs surcharge relief is in effect, including waivers that remove bunker and shipper surcharges from customs value calculations to cut added costs on imported goods. Renewable Energy Push: St. Kitts and Nevis began a two-day consultative workshop to build a Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap toward 100% renewable electricity by 2030, funded by the EU and supported by UNDP and the Greening the Islands Foundation. Housing Development: In Buckley’s Housing Area (constituency 3), construction has started on the Cluster Homes Development, with applications now open for housing assistance. Energy & Water Tensions: Opposition voices are intensifying criticism over reported electricity and water disconnections in communities like Shadwell, arguing families are being squeezed during the cost-of-living crisis. Women’s Football Season Prep: SKNFA and the Red Cross will host first aid and safeguarding training for women in football ahead of the new season. Regional Watch: CARICOM Heads of Government will meet in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, from 5–8 July, with an opening ceremony streamed live.

CARICOM Watch: CARICOM Heads of Government will meet in Gros Islet, St Lucia, from July 5–8, with St Kitts and Nevis PM Dr Terrance Drew among those delivering remarks at the July 5 opening at Sandals St Lucia, streamed live on CARICOM’s social media. Energy & Climate Resilience: St Kitts and Nevis has kicked off work on a Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap aimed at 100% renewable electricity by 2030, funded by the EU via EUROCLIMA Caribbean and implemented with UNDP and GTI. Housing: Konris Maynard says construction has started on Cluster Homes in Buckley’s Housing Area, with applications now open for housing assistance. Water Crisis & Politics: Opposition parties are escalating criticism over reported utility disconnections, calling it a worsening cost-of-living squeeze. Environment Finance: Joyelle Clarke urged stronger support for small island states at the GEF Assembly in Samarkand, stressing “nature-positive” action and faster funding. Women’s Football: SKNFA and the Red Cross will run first aid and safeguarding training for women in football ahead of the season. Tourism Push (Nevis): Nevis launches “Spring Into Summer” to keep arrivals coming in the off-season, alongside LOUD26 cultural promotion.

Renewables Push: St. Kitts and Nevis has kicked off a roadmap to reach 100% renewable electricity generation, with a two-day workshop at the St. Kitts Marriott and EU/UNDP support under the Euroclima Caribbean programme. Water Woes: Utilities minister Konris Maynard told the public drought conditions are worsening, with bushfires rising and the next rain season expected to be below normal, while the government points to steps to keep 24-hour water access moving. Cost-of-Living Clash: Opposition leaders are escalating criticism over reported electricity and water disconnections in communities like Shadwell and St. Peter’s, calling the programme “heartless” amid a wider squeeze on household budgets. Legal Warning for Social Media: A High Court defamation ruling awarded Justin Hawley $115,000 against Damien Weekes over a Facebook post tagged to Weekes, raising fresh questions about when tagged content can create legal responsibility. Regional Connectivity: Caribbean partners met in Guadeloupe to advance KARULINK, aiming to improve maritime routes and mobility across islands. Nevis Innovation: Nevis launched its first space life sciences experiment, studying how gravity affects human immune cells. Tourism & Recognition: Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson was inducted into the CTO Hall of Fame during Women in Leadership awards.