AGP Executive Report

Criminal Justice & Mediation: St. Kitts and Nevis is running the second phase of its Criminal Mediation Training Programme from Aug. 24–27, building local capacity for restorative justice and a national mediation framework, with a focus on procedures, safeguarding, ethics and practical application. Nevis Culture: The Nevis Culturama Festival 53 is set for July 22–Aug. 3, 2027 in Charlestown, with organisers urging residents and visitors to save the dates. Healthcare Reform: Prime Minister Terrance Drew says his government is reversing long-standing injustices in healthcare, including treating qualified doctors as full government employees and changing registration access for Cuban-trained nurses. Medicinal Cannabis Oversight: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority is moving to seed-to-sale tracking by contracting GrowerIQ, requiring financial transactions to be recorded alongside plants and batches under Regulation 55. Tourism Watch: Park Hyatt St. Kitts will temporarily close Aug. 28–Oct. 9 for seasonal preparations, with reservations paused during the closure. Nevis Energy: NEVLEC’s delegation is in Iceland for final acceptance inspection of the Drillmec HH-300 rig ahead of drilling five geothermal wells on Nevis. Immigration Update (US): A New York federal judge struck down a Trump administration policy that would have indefinitely suspended immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, including St. Kitts and Nevis.

Tourism & Travel Trade: St. Kitts and Nevis hosted the 2026 ASTA Caribbean Showcase, with tourism leaders and travel advisers meeting at the St. Kitts Marriott and touring across the islands, as the destination pushes sustainable growth and stronger trade ties. Resort Update: Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour announced a temporary closure from Aug. 28 to Oct. 9 to prepare for the high season, with no reservations during the shutdown. Nevis Culture: Culturama 52 wrapped up successfully, celebrating Nevisian heritage with music, food and dance, and thanking sponsors, performers and community partners. Local Tourism Youth: The Nevis Tourism Authority hosted Junior Minister Rondré Daniel for a behind-the-scenes look at its marketing and promotion work ahead of the October 2026 CTO Tourism Youth Congress. Heritage in the UK: St. Kitts & Nevis’ Heritage Day in Birmingham drew more than 1,500 people, with island artistes and a strong diaspora turnout. Immigration (US Court): Caribbean immigration advocates welcomed a US court ruling blocking an indefinite Trump visa-processing suspension affecting 75 countries, including St. Kitts and Nevis. Energy/Water (Nevis): NEVLEC’s geothermal rig is undergoing final acceptance inspection in Iceland before being shipped to Nevis for drilling, while St. Kitts’ Saddlers groundwater project reported promising early results.

Tourism & Diplomacy: St. Kitts and Nevis is hosting the 2026 ASTA Caribbean Showcase, with regional tourism leaders meeting for destination presentations and travel briefings across a four-day programme, while Nevis also welcomed Junior Minister Rondré Daniel to the Nevis Tourism Authority ahead of the October 2026 CTO Tourism Youth Congress. Energy & Water Security: NEVLEC says a Nevis geothermal drilling rig is heading to Iceland for final acceptance inspection before being shipped to Nevis to drill five wells at Hamilton, and St. Kitts’ Saddlers groundwater project is reporting promising early results after a first well test. Economy & Cost of Living: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley renewed warnings that “CBI as we know it is dead,” urging faster diversification as households face high living costs and job concerns, and the Park Hyatt seasonal closure is adding pressure to an already tight tourism economy. Sports & Governance: SKNFA has thrown its full support behind FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid wider Caribbean football governance controversy, while Nevis and St. Kitts’ cruise rebound continues after surpassing one million cruise passengers for 2026 year-to-date. Regional Links: Grenada has opened an Honorary Consulate in Manila to deepen ties with the Philippines. US Policy Impact: Caribbean immigration advocates welcomed a US court ruling striking down Trump’s visa ban affecting nationals of 75 countries, including some in the Caribbean.

Cruise Tourism Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis has surpassed 1 million cruise passengers for 2026 year-to-date, with Tourism Minister Marsha T. Henderson saying it signals renewed confidence and stronger partnerships, and that the rebound is feeding local businesses from taxi operators to vendors. Local Water & Power Support: Prime Minister Terrance Drew announced SKELEC’s “Reconnect 15” and the Water Services reconnection programme to help households get back on essential services, alongside a major groundwater push in Saddlers that is testing at about 175 gallons per minute with projections up to 300–350. Nevis Tourism Youth Prep: The Nevis Tourism Authority hosted Junior Minister Rondré Daniel for a behind-the-scenes look at marketing and promotion ahead of the October 2026 CTO Tourism Youth Congress. Heritage & Culture: Culturama 52 wrapped up in Nevis under “Our Heritage Proud and True,” with organisers thanking sponsors, performers, and responders for a safe, successful run. US Visa Ruling: A US judge struck down a Trump administration immigrant visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including St. Kitts and Nevis, calling the policy “patently unlawful.” Sports & CPL: Jamaica’s Culture Minister Olivia Grange said CPL’s return to Jamaica could strengthen local cricket and boost interest, including more opportunities for young players and women.

Cruise Tourism Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis has passed 1 million cruise passengers for the first time since COVID, reaching 1,002,282 visitors year-to-date, with Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson saying it reflects renewed confidence and stronger partnerships. Water Security: In Saddlers, St. Kitts, groundwater drilling is showing promising results after testing found 175 gallons per minute, with projections of 300–350 gpm and plans for about 500,000 gallons daily once a permanent pump is installed. Household Relief: Prime Minister Terrance Drew announced reconnection drives under SKELEC’s Reconnect 15 promotion and the Water Services reconnection programme to help families get electricity and water back on track. Heritage Preservation: The St. Christopher National Trust and the Ministry of Environment’s Parks and Beaches Division cleaned and stabilized the Spooner’s Cotton Ginnery in Cayon to protect St. Kitts’ agro-industrial heritage. Nevis Culture: Culturama 52 wrapped up successfully, celebrating Nevisian heritage under the theme “Our Heritage Proud and True.” Football Governance Row: FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended a Caribbean Football Union event in the Dominican Republic despite Concacaf’s request to skip it, angering some Caribbean leaders amid wider FIFA leadership controversy.

Heritage & Environment: The St. Christopher National Trust says the Parks and Beaches Division has cleaned up the historic Spooner’s Cotton Ginnery in Cayon, urging residents not to treat vacant heritage sites as dumping grounds. Tourism & Culture: Culturama 52 has wrapped up in Nevis under the theme “Our Heritage Proud and True,” with organisers thanking sponsors, performers, and the community for a successful run. Water & Cost of Living: PM Terrance Drew announced SKELEC’s “Reconnect 15” and the Water Services reconnection programme to help households restore electricity and water. Infrastructure Watch: PLP deputy leader Dameon Lawrence is questioning whether the $270m Basseterre High School project is delivering enough local construction jobs. Cruise Milestone: St. Kitts has surpassed one million cruise passengers for 2026, reaching 1,002,282 year-to-date. Regional Football: FIFA president Gianni Infantino attended a Caribbean Football Union event in the Dominican Republic despite Concacaf’s request to skip it, angering some regional leaders. Sports: Nevis Daily Record also notes the passing of Guyana cycling legend Hassan Mohamed, a coach and mentor with decades of impact.

US Immigration Ruling: A New York federal judge struck down a Trump-era policy blocking immigrant visas for applicants from 75 countries, including Nigeria, calling it unlawful and discriminatory. Caribbean Economic Outlook: ECLAC projects Caribbean growth at 5.6% in 2026, but only 1.1% without Guyana, highlighting the widening oil-driven gap. Tourism Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis has surpassed one million cruise passengers for 2026 year-to-date, with 1,002,282 arrivals, as Port Zante capacity and cruise partnerships keep boosting local business. Local Water Upgrade: Saddlers’ groundwater drilling is producing 175 gallons per minute now, with projections of 300–350, after EC$28 million investment. Nevis Culture: Culturama 52 wrapped with thanks to performers, volunteers and emergency responders, celebrating “Our Heritage Proud and True.” Education Boost (Nevis): PM Drew hailed the first ELEVATE CSEC cohort’s results, including 100% passes in English Language and Principles of Business. Housing Support (St. Kitts): NHC and the Housing Ministry opened applications for home sanitary upgrades. Politics & Jobs: PLP deputy leader Dameon Lawrence questioned whether a $270m Basseterre High School project is delivering local construction jobs. Film/Media Spotlight: Nevis is set as the backdrop for Lifetime’s first microdrama, “Tides of Temptation,” as the island pushes international screen opportunities.

Tourism Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis has officially surpassed 1 million cruise passengers for 2026, reaching 1,002,282 year-to-date—its first post-COVID return to that level—driven by Port Zante upgrades and renewed cruise partner confidence. Housing & Health: The National Housing Corporation is now accepting applications for home sanitary upgrades, aiming to help households make homes safer and healthier. Cost-of-Living Support: Prime Minister Terrance Drew announced reconnection drives for SKELEC and the Water Services Department to ease pressure on families struggling with bills. Education Wins: Drew congratulated the first ELEVATE CSEC cohort after a 100% pass rate in English Language and Principles of Business, plus 75% in Human and Social Biology. Hurricane Preparedness: Nevis Disaster Management is running its Hurricane Awareness Drive 2026, urging residents and businesses to prepare together as peak season approaches. Regional Tourism Push: Discover Dominica Authority is promoting Dominica’s festivals in St. Kitts and Nevis from Aug. 21–26.

Cruise Tourism Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis has welcomed 1,002,282 cruise passengers as of August 20, crossing the one-million mark for the first time since COVID-19, with Tourism Minister Marsha T. Henderson saying it signals renewed confidence from cruise partners and benefits for local taxi operators, vendors, artisans and restaurants. Tourism Push & Regional Linkages: Discover Dominica Authority is promoting Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival (Oct 23–25) and Mas Domnik (Feb 8–9, 2027) in St. Kitts and Nevis from August 21–26, with bar pop-ups, a destination cocktail and radio/TV interviews. Education & Second Chances: Prime Minister Terrance Drew congratulated the first ELEVATE CSEC cohort after 100% passes in English Language and Principles of Business, plus 75% in Human and Social Biology. Hurricane Preparedness (Nevis): Nevis Disaster Management is running Hurricane Awareness Drive 2026 (“Preparedness Starts With You”) through August 22, urging households and businesses to make emergency plans and kits and monitor official alerts. Diplomacy & Taiwan Debate: Commentary and political reaction continue around St. Kitts and Nevis’ Taiwan ties, including claims of hypocrisy and shifting policy positions.

Education & Second Chances: St. Kitts and Nevis’ ELEVATE Programme celebrates a historic CSEC run, with the first cohort posting a 100% pass rate in English Language and Principles of Business and a 75% pass rate in Human and Social Biology, as PM Terrance Drew credits the programme’s “second chance” approach. Hurricane Preparedness: Nevis Disaster Management is urging island-wide readiness ahead of peak season, running a Hurricane Awareness Drive 2026 (Aug 16–22) under “Preparedness Starts With You,” with community outreach, emergency planning tips, and CPR/first-aid demonstrations. Tourism & Travel: St. Kitts’ cruise sector hits a major rebound milestone, welcoming 1,002,282 passengers and surpassing one million since the pandemic, while Dominica’s DDA promotes its festivals in St. Kitts and Nevis (Aug 21–26). Sports & Culture: CPL confirms Dwayne Bravo and Ian Bishop as inaugural Hall of Fame inductees, and St. Kitts and Nevis artists are in Birmingham ahead of Heritage Day on Aug 23. Regional Policy: OECS, UNCTAD and ECLAC wrap up work to strengthen evidence-based trade-in-services policymaking across the Eastern Caribbean.

Education & Second Chances: Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew congratulated the first ELEVATE cohort after CSEC/CXC results showed a 100% pass rate in English Language and Principles of Business, plus 75% in Human and Social Biology, with multiple top grades. Economy Watch: Acting Financial Secretary Carlton Pogson told residents the St. Kitts and Nevis economy is on a “solid performance leg,” driven by stronger domestic tax collections and targeted sector expansion as reliance on CBI funds is reduced. Disaster Preparedness: Nevis Disaster Management is running Hurricane Awareness Drive 2026 (Aug 16–22) under “Preparedness Starts With You,” with community outreach, shelter and kit guidance, and Red Cross first-aid/CPR demos. Local Governance & Accountability: Opposition Leader Mark Brantley says he’s taking responsibility for delays around the Public Accounts Committee. Tourism & Culture: St Kitts-Nevis Heritage Day returns to Birmingham on Aug 23, with more than 1,500 expected and performers including Dejour, Virgil Hodge, Itebulous and Sweet Sister Sensia. Sports: CWI Under-19 Women’s High-Performance Camp selections include St Kitts players Zara Skerritt, Leanga Warner and Aaliyah Weekes.

Trade & Policy: OECS, UNCTAD and ECLAC wrapped up a project to close data gaps in trade in services, using UNCTAD’s TiSSTAT to help OECS states plan stronger export strategies and plug into global value chains. Politics & Governance: Nevis Opposition Leader Mark Brantley said he’s taking responsibility for the delay in convening the Public Accounts Committee, while also warning against unsustainable fuel-subsidy promises as Middle East-driven shipping disruptions push up costs. Education Support: St. Kitts and Nevis launched its 2026 Back to School Voucher programme with EC$250 for eligible students, and the Elevate CSEC Examination Centre reported a first cohort hitting 100% pass rates in two subjects. Disaster Preparedness: Nevis Disaster Management ran Hurricane Awareness Drive 2026, with church and community outreach plus Red Cross CPR and first-aid demos. Sports & Youth: Three St. Kitts women cricketers were selected for Cricket West Indies’ Under-19 Women’s High-Performance Camp, and CXC officially launched the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC). Culture & Tourism: Artists including Itebulous, Dejour, Virgil Hodge and Sweet Sister Sensia arrived in Birmingham for St. Kitts and Nevis Heritage Day on Aug. 23.

Hurricane Preparedness: Nevis Disaster Management is running a Hurricane Awareness Drive 2026 (Aug 16–22), with Climate and Disaster Communications Ambassadors visiting churches, holding public briefings at the War Memorial, and partnering with the Red Cross for CPR and first-aid demonstrations. Education Support: St. Kitts and Nevis is moving into the next phase of its School Uniform Assistance Programme, while a 2026 Back to School Voucher programme offers EC$250 to eligible students to ease new-term costs. Learning Milestone: The Elevate CSEC cohort at the Elevate CSEC Examination Centre posted strong results, including 100% passes in two subjects and a 75% pass rate in Human and Social Biology. Culture & Diaspora: St. Kitts and Nevis artists have arrived in Birmingham ahead of Heritage Day on Aug 23, with performers including Itebulous, Dejour, Virgil Hodge and Sweet Sister Sensia. Healthcare Modernisation: The National Digital Health Information System has been deployed at JNF General Hospital, aiming to modernise records and improve patient-centred care. Regional Economy: OECS, UNCTAD and ECLAC wrapped up work to strengthen evidence-based services trade policymaking across the OECS. Politics: PLP leader Timothy Harris unveiled candidates and framed the next election as a contest to rebuild the country, while PAM sets Sept 1 for its leadership election.

Education & Climate Resilience: The Joy Project’s Cool Schools Initiative has finished installing 250 ceiling fans in every classroom across St. Kitts’ government primary schools, investing close to EC$100,000 to help students and teachers cope with rising heat. Back-to-School Support: St. Kitts and Nevis has announced EC$250 back-to-school vouchers for eligible students, with parents/guardians required to be registered at school and use a JAD Digital wallet. Healthcare Modernisation: The National Digital Health Information System (NDHIS) has been deployed at JNF General Hospital, aiming to move beyond paper records toward a more integrated, patient-centred system. Regional Trade Policy: OECS, UNCTAD and ECLAC say they’ve wrapped up work to improve evidence-based services trade policymaking by filling data gaps through TiSSTAT. Cost of Living Watch: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley warns that while fuel and living-cost relief is needed amid Middle East-driven shipping disruption, indefinite subsidies could bankrupt the country. Public Safety: Consumer Affairs issued $1,000 tickets to seven retailers after a 72-hour sweep found expired goods on shelves. Community & Culture: Jego Armstrong, an Emmy-winning journalist, has been named featured speaker for the Prime Minister’s Independence Lecture Series.

Independence & Diaspora Spotlight: Emmy-winning journalist Jego Armstrong has been named featured speaker for the 28th Prime Minister’s Independence Lecture Series on Sept. 8, bringing a global newsroom career that includes work with Al Jazeera America, VICE News and MS NOW. Back-to-School Support: St. Kitts and Nevis announced EC$250 back-to-school vouchers for eligible students, with parents/guardians required to be 18+ and registered at school, plus a JAD Digital wallet and contact details. Healthcare Modernisation: The National Digital Health Information System has been successfully deployed at JNF General Hospital, part of a wider push to digitise records and improve patient-centred care. Consumer Protection: Consumer Affairs issued $1,000 tickets to seven retailers after a 72-hour sweep found expired goods being sold, urging shoppers to report violations. Cyber Safety: A phishing alert warns residents and businesses to verify unexpected tenders/bids and avoid clicking untrusted links or attachments. Sports & Community: CPL confirmed Dwayne Bravo and Ian Bishop as inaugural Hall of Fame inductees, to be honoured Sept. 15 in Barbados, with proceeds supporting prostate cancer testing. Tourism Experience: SKTA stakeholders took part in the First Light Hike to better understand the visitor experience firsthand.

Healthcare Modernisation: St. Kitts and Nevis has successfully deployed the National Digital Health Information System at Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital, with officials saying it’s more than digitising paper records and is meant to improve patient-centred care across the Federation. Cyber Safety: A new alert warns businesses and residents about phishing emails disguised as tenders, bids and RFPs, urging people not to click links or open attachments they weren’t expecting. Local Politics: PAM has set Sept. 1, 2026 for its leadership election after Natasha Grey-Brookes’ resignation, with nominations open until Aug. 25. Sports & Culture: Dwayne Bravo and Ian Bishop are confirmed as the inaugural inductees into the Caribbean Premier League Hall of Fame, while the SKTA team took part in the First Light Hike to better understand the visitor experience. Community & Education: Dr. Terrance Drew announced a Constituency 8 back-to-school fair on Aug. 29, and the OECS launched a regional child policy and strategic plan for 2026–2032 with UNICEF support. Consumer Protection: Consumer Affairs issued $1,000 tickets to seven retailers after a 72-hour sweep found expired goods being sold.