AGP Executive Report

Business & Investment: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew attended Demerara Distillers (St. Kitts and Nevis) Limited’s Bird Rock groundbreaking on Aug. 6, hailing the expansion as a major vote of confidence and a sign of deeper Caribbean integration, with Cabinet, DDSKN leadership and Guyana’s BK Group represented. Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority rolled out a seed-to-sale digital track-and-trace system to monitor the full supply chain, paving the way for commercial licensing, patient registration and stronger standards for investors and banking partners. Opposition Politics: The People’s Labour Party (PLP) is set for a major national caucus and convention activities, including elections to expand its national executive and a public session on Aug. 8. Sports (CPL): CPL 2026 gets underway with St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots taking on defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders on Aug. 8 at Arnos Vale, as fans gear up for the season’s early clashes. Football Administration: SKNFA disbursed EC$128,200 in 2025–2026 prize money, with Old Road Jets taking the Premier Division top award of EC$50,000.

Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: St. Kitts and Nevis has rolled out a seed-to-sale digital track-and-trace system for its medicinal cannabis industry, aimed at monitoring the full supply chain and supporting licensing, patient registration and future research. Private Investment: Prime Minister Terrance Drew backed Demerara Distillers’ expansion, praising the company’s redevelopment and new facility plans as a vote of confidence in the Federation’s economy. Regional Politics: The People’s Labour Party (PLP) is gearing up after electing an expanded national executive, while attorney Craig Tuckett was named Chief Legal Advisor, as the party prepares for its convention and national caucus. Tourism & Culture: The St. Kitts Tourism Authority promoted Sugar Mas 55 at Antigua Carnival, and the Federation’s cultural heritage continues with training camps building skills for Mas props and accessories. Accessibility at Ports: SCASPA staff received disability etiquette and accessible passenger assistance training with the tourism authority and disability partners. Sports: CPL 2026 kicks off with broadcast partners confirmed, and St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots are set to play in the opening weekend.

UN Diplomacy: St. Kitts and Nevis Ambassador Dr. Mutryce A. Williams received the UN General Assembly’s Golden Gavel Award, honoured for exceptional leadership as Vice President of the 80th session. Housing & Social Services: The National Housing Corporation says construction is advancing on affordable homes in Buckley’s Settlement, Taylor’s Community and Sandy Point. Opposition Politics: The PLP held a major national caucus at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel, electing an expanded national executive ahead of its next political phase. EU Pressure on Passports: The European Commission has warned five Eastern Caribbean states, including St. Kitts and Nevis, to phase out citizenship-by-investment by June 1, 2028 or risk losing Schengen visa-free access. Energy Update (Nevis): Nevis geothermal partners met to review readiness for the upcoming drilling phase, including logistics and port preparations. Business & Investment: PM Drew met Demerara Distillers (St. Kitts and Nevis) and Guyana’s BK Group as DDSKN prepares to break ground on a new facility. Sports & Culture: CPL 2026 kicks off August 7 with St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots set to play Trinbago Knight Riders, while Sugar Mas 55 promotion continues and a special court sitting paid tribute to late legal icon Charles Wilkin.

Healthcare Upgrade: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew says the historic Cardin Home is getting its biggest investment in nearly a century as the elder-care facility is refurbished and modernised ahead of its 100th anniversary. Housing & Planning: Minister Dr Joyelle Clarke explains how physical planning and GIS mapping are shaping housing and community needs, including pressure areas like St Peter’s. Nevis Energy Push: The Nevis Geothermal Project moves closer to drilling after a site readiness review covering logistics, port access and mobilisation plans with CDB/IDB and local partners. CPL Countdown: The Republic Bank CPL kicks off Aug 7 with broadcast partners confirmed and free health screenings planned at all eight host venues; St Kitts and Nevis Patriots are among the seven teams. Tourism Flow: Rhapsody of the Seas makes its fifth summer call to Port Zante, bringing more than 2,300 passengers and boosting local vendors and tours. Cost of Living Relief: Government extends temporary fuel and import relief measures through Sept 30, keeping excise and customs reductions on eligible gasoline. Independence 43: The official Independence 43 Calendar of Activities is launched, starting with the MV Christena memorial service and building toward Sept 19 celebrations.

Cruise Tourism: Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas made its fifth summer call to Port Zante on Tuesday, bringing 2,326 passengers and boosting local taxis, tours, vendors and craft shopping; four more visits are set for Aug. 19, Sept. 2, Sept. 16 and Sept. 30. Local Governance & Water: Prime Minister Terrance Drew marks four years in office, pointing to major gains including expanded 24-hour water access (from 24% to nearly 70%) alongside progress in electricity, healthcare and education. Cost of Living Relief: Cabinet has extended temporary fuel and import relief measures through Sept. 30, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline and 50% reduction in customs service charges. EU Pressure on CBI: The EU has given five Eastern Caribbean countries—including St. Kitts and Nevis—until June 1, 2028 to phase out citizenship-by-investment programmes or risk losing Schengen visa-free access. Medicinal Cannabis: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority has implemented a seed-to-sale seed-to-sale track-and-trace system, even as it says no commercial medicinal licence has yet been issued. Community Health: The Ministry of Health is running a Breast Pump & Breastfeeding Accessories Drive through Sept. 30 to support mothers during World Breastfeeding Week.

Cost of Living Relief: Cabinet Secretary Dr Marcus Natta says St. Kitts and Nevis will extend temporary fuel and import relief measures through September 30, 2026, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline, a 50% customs service charge reduction, and removing shipper surcharges from customs tax and duty calculations. Social Services Digitisation: The Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs is using online tools to make support easier to access, including live registration for the School-Based Assistance Programme and e-payments via JAD Cash and Budget Boost Wallet. Government Delivery Tour: PM Dr Terrance Drew and Cabinet led a media tour of major capital projects, giving updates on construction progress, timelines, financing, and expected benefits. Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority opened registration for its Traditional Cultivator Programme (Aug 12–14) and has implemented a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system to strengthen oversight across the supply chain. Independence 43 Build-Up: The federation has launched the Independence 43 Calendar of Activities, starting with the MV Christena memorial service and running through October, under the theme “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility.” Health & Community: The Health Ministry kicked off a Breast Pump & Breastfeeding Accessories Drive for World Breastfeeding Week, while CPL announced free health screenings at all eight host venues across the region. Culture & Sports: Mia Alexander was crowned Miss Culture Queen 2026 at Nevis Culturama 52, and Nevis Primary Schools’ All-Stars beat St. Kitts Primary Schools’ All-Stars by 8 wickets.

Medicinal Cannabis Regulation: St. Kitts and Nevis Medicinal Cannabis Authority has executed a contract to roll out a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace System, using GrowerIQ software to monitor cultivation, processing, distribution and retail—while noting the first commercial licence has not yet been issued. Cost of Living Relief: Government has extended temporary fuel and import relief measures to September 30, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline and 50% reduction in customs service charges, to cushion households and businesses from volatile fuel and shipping costs. Public Health: The Ministry of Health launched a Breast Pump & Breastfeeding Accessories Drive for World Breastfeeding Week, running Aug 1 to Sept 30, with drop-offs at health facilities. Sports & Health: CPL will provide free health screenings at all eight host venues across the region, offering blood pressure, glucose, BMI, urinalysis and PSA tests. Independence 43: The Federation unveiled the Independence 43 Calendar of Activities under “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility,” kicking off Aug 1 with the MV Christena memorial service and running through October. Politics: PAM political leader Natasha “Shanny” Grey-Brookes has stepped down, with leadership succession and election timing now in focus. Youth Sailing: Abhijith Srinivasan becomes the first SKN sailor at the ILCA 4 Youth World Championships in Denmark. Nevis Cricket: Nevis Primary Schools’ All-Stars beat St. Kitts Primary Schools’ All-Stars by 8 wickets at ET Willett Park. CBI Watch: The EU has warned five Caribbean states—including St. Kitts and Nevis—to end citizenship-by-investment by 2028 or risk losing Schengen visa-free access.

ECCB & EC Dollar Stability: ECCB Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine renewed his push for the EC dollar peg, saying the EC$2.70 to US$1.00 arrangement has protected purchasing power, kept inflation low, and helped families and businesses plan for the future. CPL Health Push: The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League is rolling out free health screenings at all eight host venues, offering blood pressure, glucose, BMI, urinalysis and PSA tests to help catch non-communicable diseases early. Cost of Living Relief: Government extended temporary fuel and import relief measures for two more months, keeping a 50% excise tax cut on eligible gasoline and related customs relief through September 30. Health Services in Nevis: NIA partners with Renal Dynamics to advance a first dedicated dialysis facility at Alexandra Hospital, targeting completion in the third quarter and five stations for up to 20 patients. Independence 43 Build-Up: Officials unveiled the Independence 43 Calendar of Activities, themed “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility,” with events running from August through October. Medicinal Cannabis Oversight: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority implemented a seed-to-sale track and trace system to strengthen transparency and regulatory compliance across the supply chain. Sports & Youth Sailing: Abhijith Srinivasan became the first St. Kitts and Nevis sailor to represent the federation at the ILCA 4 Youth World Championships in Denmark. Leadership Watch: PAM leadership is in flux after Natasha “Shanny” Grey-Brookes’ resignation, with speculation that Shawn Richards could return as political leader ahead of possible elections.

Independence 43 Calendar: St. Kitts and Nevis has released the programme for its 43rd Independence Day celebrations, kicking off Aug. 1 with a memorial service for the MV Christina tragedy, and featuring National Colours Day, National Heroes Day and a Prime Minister’s Lecture series under the theme “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility.” Water Security: PM Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, alongside wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution. Energy Relief: SKELEC has launched “ReConnect 15” to help disconnected customers restore electricity during August, requiring a 15% down payment and a reduced reconnection fee. Renewables Funding Call: IRENA opened a funding call for renewable energy projects across Central America and the Caribbean, including St. Kitts and Nevis, with proposals prioritized before Sept. 1. Medicinal Cannabis Upgrade: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority says a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system is being implemented to strengthen transparency and prevent diversion. Sports & Culture: Nevis’ Tresjeur Dedier earned 1st Runner-Up at the Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen 2026, while 14-year-old Abhijith Srinivasan begins competition at the ILCA 4 Youth World Championships in Denmark as the first Federation representative at that event.

Water Security Update: PM Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, as the project combines desalination with wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution. Electricity Relief: SKELEC launches “Reconnect 15” for disconnected customers, offering a 15% down payment and a reduced reconnection fee to restore service during August. Governance & Justice: A High Court ruling in the Petrona Thomas transfer case says “vindictiveness and heavy-handedness have been proved,” declaring the transfer unlawful and void. Medicinal Cannabis: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority confirms execution of a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace contract, using real-time monitoring to prevent diversion and protect product purity. Local Development: The Sandy Point Community Centre is set for a structural assessment after cracks raised concerns about integrity. Culture & Community: Nevis hosts the Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant with delegates arriving, while Tarihanna Maynard takes First Runner-Up in the Bank of Nevis Miss Culture Queen 2026. Sports: Nevis sailor Amadi Hendrickson sits 15th after tough first-day Laser racing at the CAC Games.

Nevis Culture & Tourism: Tarihanna Maynard, sponsored by the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis, was named First Runner-Up in the Bank of Nevis Miss Culture Queen 2026, as the Culturama spotlight continues. Regional Pageantry: The stage is set for tonight’s 2026 Bank of Nevis Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant in Charlestown, with delegates from across the Caribbean arriving for the Nevis Cultural Complex show. Water Security: Prime Minister Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access for about 70% of the population, as the federation pushes for long-term water resilience. Electricity Relief: SKELEC launched “ReConnect 15,” offering eligible disconnected customers a 15% down payment plus a reduced reconnection fee to restore service during August. Governance & Justice: A High Court ruling in the Petrona Thomas transfer case found “vindictiveness and heavy-handedness,” declaring the move unlawful and void. Business & Economy: St. Kitts welcomed more than 7,300 passengers aboard Star of the Seas, boosting Port Zante activity and local tourism trade. Policy & Security: Senator Joyelle Clarke backed the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, saying it strengthens the federation’s ability to combat cross-border crime.

Water Security Update: Prime Minister Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access across St. Kitts, aiming to reach about 70% of the population with clean water after years of drought-driven shortages. Politics & Law: Senator Dr Joyelle Clarke backed the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, arguing it strengthens the Federation’s ability to tackle cross-border crime while protecting constitutional safeguards. Governance Watch: A High Court ruling in the Petrona Thomas transfer case says the process was “unlawful” and “irrational,” with the PSC and CPO conduct described as “oppressive and disproportionate.” Sports & Culture: St. Kitts and Nevis marked Emancipation Day with messages honouring freedom and African heritage, while Nevis Culturama 52 crowned Groovy Soca Monarch Adowah and Power Soca Monarch Rass Brown & Rocco Dan. Regional Spotlight: Former USVI senator Janelle Sarauw won the Democratic primary for Delegate to Congress, with strong St. Kitts family ties drawing attention locally. Health: Health officials are urging residents to treat obesity as a medical condition, not a cultural joke, citing WHO data placing adult obesity at 45.6%.

Water Security Push: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew says the Basseterre Desalination Plant is on track to deliver 24-hour water access, targeting about 70% of the population with two million gallons of clean water daily, alongside wells, reservoirs and upgraded distribution. Electricity Relief: SKELEC launches “ReConnect 15” for August, letting eligible disconnected customers restart service with a 15% down payment on outstanding balances and a reduced reconnection fee. Governance in Focus: A High Court ruling in the Petrona Thomas transfer case says “vindictiveness and heavy-handedness have been proved,” declaring the move unlawful and void and awarding EC$10,000 in damages. Capital Projects Tour: Drew and Cabinet lead a media tour of major St. Kitts projects, including the Creative Arts Centre and the Greenhouse Village nearing completion to boost food security. Medicinal Cannabis Oversight: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority says a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system is now being implemented to monitor the full supply chain and prevent diversion. Nevis Energy Update: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says the geothermal drilling rig is expected to be mobilised soon, with drilling anticipated this year. Tourism Boost: Star of the Seas brought over 7,300 passengers to Port Zante, boosting local businesses across Basseterre. Legislation on Crime: Senator Dr Joyelle Clarke backs the Extradition (Amendment) Bill, 2026, saying it strengthens the federation’s ability to tackle cross-border crime.

Creative Arts Centre Progress: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew’s media tour highlighted the $50 million Prime Creative Arts Centre, funded through the CBI Public Benefit Option, with officials saying construction is on track for a three-year completion. Food Security Push: At Brotherson Estate, the Greenhouse Village Initiative was shown nearing completion, with 24 greenhouse structures planned to support climate-resilient “crash crops” and help cut the $200 million annual food import bill. Medicinal Cannabis Oversight: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority says a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system contract has been executed, using real-time monitoring to strengthen transparency and prevent diversion. Governance in Focus: A High Court ruling in the Petrona Thomas transfer case says “vindictiveness and heavy-handedness have been proved,” declaring the transfer unlawful and ordering costs. Tourism & Travel: Star of the Seas brought more than 7,300 passengers to Port Zante, boosting local businesses across Basseterre. International Relations: Ambassador Donya Francis hosted participants from Taiwan’s 2026 Youth Camp at the St. Kitts and Nevis Embassy in Taipei. Energy & Cost Pressure (Nevis): Nevis Premier Mark Brantley urged electricity conservation as the domestic fuel surcharge returns amid global oil price volatility. Culture: Nevis Culturama 52 crowned Oualie Rhythms as Panorama champions, while Groovy and Power Soca Monarch titles went to Adowah and Rass Brown & Rocco Dan respectively.

Cruise Economy Boost: Over 7,300 passengers poured into St. Kitts and Nevis as Star of the Seas docked at Port Zante, bringing a surge of activity for taxi drivers, tour guides, shops, vendors and restaurants in Basseterre. Medicinal Cannabis Upgrade: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority says St. Kitts and Nevis has secured a Seed-to-Sale Track and Trace system, using Grower IQ software to monitor cultivation, processing, distribution and retail to prevent diversion and protect product purity. UN Partnerships: Ministers Konris Maynard and Dr. Joyelle Clarke represented the federation at the UN HLPF, discussing renewable energy, economic equity for small island states, and support for modernising the national grid. Africa-Caribbean Connectivity: PM Terrance Drew urged removal of “unnecessary barriers” between Africa and the Caribbean, pointing to visa-free access for African nationals and calling for deeper mobility and trade links. High Court Governance Shock: Justice Tamara Gill ruled the transfer of Petrona Thomas unlawful and void, saying “vindictiveness and heavy-handedness have been proved,” and ordered costs in her favour. Tourism Signature Project: Drew visited the Symbol of Love Monument and Museum Project at Fort Thomas, calling it a major tourism and cultural landmark for St. Kitts and the wider Caribbean. Energy and Water Updates: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says the geothermal drilling rig is expected to be mobilised soon, while Minister Konris Maynard announced promising signs of a new water source in Saddlers. National Assembly Moves: Bills on banking, payment systems and liquor licensing are set for first reading, alongside an extradition amendment bill.

High Court Ruling: Justice Tamara Gill delivered a stinging rebuke in the Petrona Thomas transfer case, saying “vindictiveness and heavy-handedness have been proved,” declaring the transfer unlawful, irrational and void, and ordering costs in Thomas’ favour. Tourism & Culture: PM Terrance Drew toured the “Symbol of Love” Fort Thomas Monument and Museum project, calling it a signature attraction with major tourism impact, while Nevis Culturama 52 crowned Oualie Rhythms (Groovy Soca Monarch) and Rass Brown & Rocco Dan (Power Soca Monarch). Economy & Governance: The IMF told Cabinet St. Kitts and Nevis remains fiscally solid despite lower CBI revenue, and the National Assembly advanced a Banking (Amendment) Bill plus other measures tied to financial stability and good governance. Relocation Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis ranked 8th globally in the 2026 Rumavi Global Relocation Index, topping the Caribbean. Energy & Water: Nevis geothermal progress continues with drilling rig mobilisation expected soon, and Minister Konris Maynard announced promising signs of a new water source in Saddlers. Community & Sports: Star of the Seas brought 7,421 passengers to Port Zante, boosting local businesses, and the CPL Step Challenge returns for 2026.