AGP Executive Report

Water Security: St. Kitts Water Services says its second Saddlers well is progressing fast after a highly successful first well, with drilling already at about 280 feet and aiming for up to 500 meters to boost potable supply for nearby communities. Groundwater Programme: Officials credit hydrogeological surveys and drone-based targeting for finding the massive water source, with the second site expected to finish by late September. Agriculture & Branding: St. Kitts’ Department of Agriculture has launched a public logo design competition, offering a $500 prize and asking for a design that fits long-term use across agriculture, food security, sustainability and innovation. Nevis Geothermal Build-Out: Nevis’ geothermal project cleared a final pre-mobilisation inspection of the Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig in Iceland, setting up drilling to start within 60 days, while NEVLEC continues capacity-building ahead of operations. Education & Mobility: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says rising U.S. student visa rejections are pushing more students toward UWI as a practical alternative. Livestock Protection: The Agriculture Department warns of increased dog attacks on sheep and goats, urging farmers and dog owners to secure animals and report incidents promptly.

Culture & Development: The UN General Assembly adopted Vietnam’s proposed International Decade of Culture for Sustainable Development (2027–2036), with UNESCO set as the focal point and St. Kitts and Nevis named among the core supporters. Nevis Geothermal Push: Nevis’ geothermal drilling is moving fast—an independent acceptance inspection of the 272-metric-ton Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig in Iceland clears the way for shipment, with drilling expected within 60 days; a St. Martin delegation also toured geothermal sites as regional clean-energy interest grows. Agriculture Safety: The Agriculture Department warned livestock farmers about rising dog attacks on sheep and goats, urging tighter animal security, prompt reporting, and better dog containment. Local Construction Leadership: Nevis national Lisa Moving was highlighted as Turner Construction received major NAWIC honours for corporate leadership and project excellence, spotlighting inclusion in the A&E sector. Education & Community: The Federation held its back-to-school ceremony, while PM Drew reassured the public on his recovery after medical evaluations abroad. Tourism Sales: St. Kitts and Nevis pitched directly to travel advisors at ASTA’s Caribbean Showcase, leaning on the message that “nice is not why we travel.”

Geothermal Push: Nevis’ geothermal project cleared a final pre-mobilisation rig inspection in Iceland, with the 272-metric-tonne Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” now set to ship and drilling expected to start within 60 days—while NEVLEC builds local capacity ahead of the 30MW plan. Prime Minister Update: St. Kitts’ PM Dr. Terrance Drew says he’s recovering well after medical evaluations abroad, with government operations continuing as normal under Acting PM Dr. Geoffrey Hanley. Party Leadership: Dr. Shawn Richards was elected new Political Leader of the People’s Action Movement, following Natasha Grey-Brookes’ withdrawal from East Basseterre and her earlier resignation as leader. Agriculture Alert: The Agriculture Department warned of rising dog attacks on sheep and goats, urging farmers to secure livestock and report incidents promptly. Tourism & Connectivity: St. Kitts used the ASTA Caribbean Showcase to pitch its product to US travel advisors, and American Airlines announced two daily Miami flights to St. Kitts for the winter season. Sports & Community: Nevis teacher Shoya Lawrence was named Fan of the Match at CPL, as local football season kicked off with Conaree FC vs Old Road Jets.

Health Update: PM Dr. Terrance Drew says he’s recovering well and remains stable after medical evaluations in South Florida, with government operations continuing uninterrupted. Political Leadership: Nevis PAM elected Dr. Shawn Richards as its new Political Leader, as the party moves into a renewed “new chapter” after Natasha Grey-Brookes’ resignation and withdrawal. Clean Energy & Drilling: Nevis geothermal work is advancing fast: the Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig cleared a final independent inspection in Iceland, with drilling expected to start within 60 days; St. Martin officials also visited Nevis to explore regional geothermal cooperation. Agriculture & Safety: The Agriculture Department is urging livestock farmers to protect sheep and goats after a rise in dog attacks, while also reminding dog owners to secure animals and report incidents. Construction & Inclusion: St. Kitts engineer Lisa Moving was highlighted as Turner received major US NAWIC honours for corporate leadership and project excellence. Tourism & Connectivity: St. Kitts pushed its case to US travel advisors at ASTA’s Caribbean Showcase, and American Airlines announced a winter schedule boost with two daily Miami flights starting Dec. 17. Labour Policy: A regional pay transparency push is gaining traction, with discussion of salary disclosure benefits for employers and employees.

Nevis Geothermal Push: Nevis’ geothermal drilling is set to start within 60 days after a final independent acceptance inspection cleared the 272-metric-ton Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig in Iceland, with NEVLEC building local capacity ahead of shipment. Nevis Infrastructure Debate: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley defended major capital works as the “catalysts” for growth and investor confidence, arguing roads, water, and electricity must come first for people and for future investment. Dog Attacks on Livestock: The Agriculture Department warned sheep and goat farmers to tighten animal security and report incidents as roaming dogs increase attacks. Federation Politics: Dr. Shawn Richards was elected Political Leader of PAM, replacing Natasha “Shanny” Grey-Brookes, as the party signals a “new chapter” heading toward the next general election. Prime Minister’s Health: Government says PM Terrance Drew is stable abroad for specialist diagnostic tests after mild discomfort and hospitalisation in St. Kitts, with operations continuing. Tourism & Access: St. Kitts used ASTA’s Caribbean Showcase to sell its product to travel advisors, while American Airlines added two daily Miami flights to St. Kitts for the winter season. Local Industry & Skills: A talent workshop and scouting initiative with international musical theatre casting director Ralf Schaedler is planned for late October, aiming to develop Caribbean performers for global opportunities.

Geothermal Push: Nevis moved its clean-energy drilling plan forward after an independent acceptance inspection cleared the 272-metric-ton Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig in Iceland, with drilling expected to start within 60 days. Regional Energy Interest: A St. Martin delegation toured Nevis geothermal sites with Premier Mark Brantley, signaling growing regional cooperation around geothermal power. Infrastructure vs. Social Spending: Nevis Premier Brantley defended major capital works as the “catalysts” for growth and investor confidence, arguing infrastructure comes first for people and for future investment. Livestock Protection: The Agriculture Department warned of rising dog attacks on sheep and goats, urging farmers to secure animals and report incidents, while reminding dog owners to prevent roaming. Tourism Industry Outreach: St. Kitts and Nevis used the ASTA Caribbean Showcase to pitch the destination directly to U.S. travel advisors, with the message that “Nice is not why we travel.” Education & Talent Pipeline: The Ministry of Education launched the new school year with a focus on educator well-being and student success, while Nevis also highlighted international recognition for local film and musical-theatre talent development. Governance Watch: A new analysis questions the proposed “Destiny” project’s special governance framework for Nevis, calling for closer scrutiny of benefits and risks. Leadership Update: Prime Minister Terrance Drew’s medical travel abroad for specialist diagnostics was confirmed, with government operations continuing normally.

Geothermal Energy Push: Nevis’ geothermal project cleared a final pre-mobilisation milestone after an independent inspection of the 272-metric-ton Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig in Iceland, paving the way for shipment and drilling to begin within 60 days. Regional Clean Power Interest: Premier Mark Brantley hosted a St. Martin delegation to tour geothermal sites and discuss future energy cooperation, underscoring growing regional demand for clean baseload options. Infrastructure vs. Social Spending Debate: Brantley defended Nevis’ heavy capital works push, arguing roads, water, electricity and power capacity are needed first to attract investment and fund wider public welfare. Livestock Protection: The Agriculture Department warned of rising dog attacks on sheep and goats, urging farmers to secure animals, report incidents quickly, and improve responsible dog ownership. Tourism Industry Outreach: St. Kitts and Nevis used the ASTA Caribbean Showcase to pitch the destination directly to US travel advisors, with messaging focused on experiences beyond “sun, sea and sand.” Investment & Jobs Scrutiny: A new analysis flags the proposed “Destiny” development for Nevis, calling for closer review of its special governance and economic promises. Prime Minister Health Update: Government communications say PM Terrance Drew is stable and undergoing scheduled specialist assessments after mild discomfort and hospitalisation. Workforce & Safety Lessons: A toxic gas leak investigation abroad found hazardous cutting treated as routine work, highlighting the need for stronger safety oversight in industrial operations.

Geothermal Push: Nevis Geothermal Project cleared a final independent acceptance inspection of its 272-metric-ton Drillmec HH-300 “Týr” rig in Iceland, paving the way for shipment and drilling to start within 60 days. Regional Energy Interest: St. Martin officials visited Nevis to tour the geothermal site and discuss future regional cooperation as clean-energy demand grows. Electricity Costs: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley said electricity bills remain a top concern after the fuel surcharge returned, with the Strait of Hormuz and Middle East conflict blamed for energy-market shocks. Agriculture Safety: The Agriculture Department warned of rising dog attacks on sheep and goats, urging farmers to secure animals, report incidents, and document details for authorities. Tourism Trade: St. Kitts and Nevis used the ASTA Caribbean Showcase to pitch the destination directly to U.S. travel advisors, with messaging focused on experiences beyond “sun, sea and sand.” Governance & Politics: PAM confirmed Dr. Shawn Richards as its new Political Leader after Natasha Grey-Brookes withdrew her East Basseterre candidacy, citing internal trust and leadership constraints. Prime Minister Update: Government said PM Terrance Drew is stable and undergoing scheduled diagnostic tests abroad after hospitalisation in St. Kitts.

Energy & Infrastructure: Nevis geothermal keeps moving: NEVLEC and specialists completed a final independent inspection of the Drillmec HH-300 “Tyr” rig in Iceland ahead of shipment, targeting drilling in the second half of 2026 for a planned 30MW project. Energy Costs: Nevisians are still feeling the electricity hit as the fuel surcharge returns; Premier Mark Brantley links the spike to Strait of Hormuz disruptions and global energy market pressure, noting the NIA previously absorbed EC$28.9m to fully cover the surcharge. Clean Energy Diplomacy: St. Martin officials toured Nevis geothermal sites in Hamilton as regional interest grows in clean-energy cooperation. Tourism & Travel Trade: St. Kitts and Nevis used the ASTA Caribbean Showcase to pitch directly to U.S. travel advisors, with Nevis pushing its culture, heritage and “more than classic Caribbean” experiences. Connectivity Boost: American Airlines adds two daily Miami flights to St. Kitts from Dec. 17, 2026 through Apr. 5, 2027—an airlift boost for the winter season. Governance & Investment Scrutiny: A closer look at the 2007 Christophe Harbour agreement raises questions about public access, planning authority and whether private control amounts to a “state within a state.” Local Economy Shift: A new analysis argues Nevis must plan for life after CBI as revenues and manufacturing economics change. Education: The Ministry of Education kicked off the new school year with a back-to-school ceremony focused on educator well-being, partnership and student success.

Geothermal Push: Nevis is moving toward drilling with a final rig inspection in Iceland for the 272-ton Drillmec HH-300 “Tyr,” with NEVLEC leading oversight ahead of the second-half 2026 start and a planned 30MW supply for both islands. Regional Clean Energy: A St. Martin delegation visited Nevis’ Hamilton geothermal site to review progress and explore future energy cooperation. Energy Costs: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says electricity prices remain a top worry after the fuel surcharge returned, tied to Middle East-driven oil market disruption, with a capped residential rate to soften the hit. Tourism Trade & Air Access: Nevis and St. Kitts used the ASTA Caribbean Showcase to deepen U.S. travel trade ties, while American Airlines added two daily Miami flights to St. Kitts for the winter season through April 2027. Governance & Scrutiny: A new analysis flags concerns around Nevis’ proposed Destiny project, warning that its special governance framework deserves close public review. Local Industry & Skills: St. Kitts and Nevis engineer Clecton Phillip’s Voykuh civic intelligence platform is now on Google Play in 177 countries. Public Finance Debate: A separate piece argues St. Kitts and Nevis must plan for a post-CBI economy as manufacturing and electricity costs squeeze competitiveness. Health & Continuity: Prime Minister Drew’s medical travel abroad for specialist diagnostics is reported as stable, with government operations continuing under Acting PM Hanley. Workplace Safety Warning: An international probe into a deadly ship recycling gas leak found hazardous cutting was treated as routine without basic safety oversight.

Health & Governance: Acting PM Dr Geoffrey Hanley reassured the nation after Prime Minister Drew’s hospitalisation, saying Cabinet operations continue and Drew is in good spirits. Geothermal & Energy Security: Nevis is pushing ahead with geothermal drilling—NEVLEC teams inspected the Drillmec HH-300 “Tyr” rig in Iceland ahead of mobilisation, while a St. Martin delegation toured Nevis geothermal sites and discussed the project timeline. Cost of Living (Electricity): Nevis Premier Mark Brantley flagged electricity costs as a key concern after the fuel surcharge returned, with regional energy-market pressures cited. Tourism & Industry Links: The ASTA Caribbean Showcase wrapped in St. Kitts, with travel advisors touring properties and Nevis using the platform to deepen U.S. travel trade ties. Renewables Financing: IRENA opened a call for renewable energy project proposals across Central America and the Caribbean, including St. Kitts and Nevis, for potential support via its financing platforms. Local Business & Tech: St. Kitts engineer Clecton Phillip’s Voykuh civic intelligence platform launched on Google Play in 177 countries. Workplace Safety: A probe into a deadly toxic gas leak at a ship recycling yard found hazardous cutting was treated as routine work without proper safety oversight. Education & Scholarships: TaiwanICDF scholarship recipients from St. Kitts and Nevis attended orientation and began placements at universities in Taiwan.

Airlift & Tourism Growth: American Airlines adds two daily Miami flights to St. Kitts from Dec. 17, 2026 through Apr. 5, 2027, boosting winter access and connecting U.S. travelers via Miami. Investment & Governance Watch: A deep dive into the 2007 Christophe Harbour agreement raises “state within a state” concerns over planning control, roads and public access inside the resort footprint. Energy Transition (Geothermal): NEVLEC’s team inspects the 272-ton Drillmec HH-300 Tyr rig in Iceland, the last major step before mobilising Nevis geothermal drilling. Energy Transition (Solar Backup): With Nevis fuel-surcharge electricity costs rising again, NEVLEC is exploring a 10MW solar farm as a short-term shock absorber while geothermal advances. Climate & Risk: Meteorologist Denel Dixon links drought conditions to El Niño, shifting climate patterns and Saharan dust, feeding into early-warning and preparedness efforts. Fisheries & Jobs: St. Kitts deploys 21 Fish Aggregating Devices to improve tuna access for fishers, with local participation in construction and placement. Local Industry & Skills: Voykuh, a St. Kitts-built civic intelligence platform, launches on Google Play in 177 countries, aiming to strengthen policy discussion tools for small states. Tourism Trade Push (Nevis): Nevis Tourism Authority ramps up U.S. outreach at ASTA, using hotel site visits and tours to sell a more experience-led destination. Public Scrutiny (Education): Calls for transparency grow around the EC$270m Basseterre High School project, including concerns about overseas manufacturing and local work share. Film & Talent: Nevis highlights international festival momentum for local productions, while a major musical theatre workshop and scouting initiative is set for late October.

CPL Spotlight: St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots host Antigua & Barbuda Falcons at Warner Park as cricket fever returns to Basseterre. Talent & Culture: International casting director Ralf Schaedler is set to run a two-day musical theatre workshop and scouting drive in St. Kitts & Nevis in late October. Tourism Trade Push: Nevis and St. Kitts used the 2026 ASTA Caribbean Showcase to court U.S. travel advisors with hotel site visits and destination pitches. Energy Independence: Nevis geothermal work moves forward with a final drill rig inspection in Iceland, while NEVLEC explores a 10MW solar farm to cushion fuel-surcharge shocks. Local Infrastructure Watch: Questions keep swirling around the EC$270m Basseterre High School project, with concerns about overseas manufacturing and local job impact. Fisheries Support: St. Kitts has deployed 21 Fish Aggregating Devices to improve access to species like yellowfin tuna. Governance & Housing: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley warns “CBI as we know it is dead,” and a major Nevis development called Destiny faces calls for transparency and accountability. Tech for Small States: St. Kitts engineer Clecton Phillip’s Voykuh platform is now on Google Play in 177 countries. Climate & Water: St. Kitts and Nevis flagged worsening drought impacts at UN land talks, as dry seasons lengthen and rainfall turns more extreme.

Tourism Trade Push: Nevis and St. Kitts used the 2026 ASTA Caribbean Showcase to court U.S. travel advisors, with site visits and pitches aimed at selling Nevis’ “authentic” experiences beyond a classic resort stay. Energy & Utilities: Nevisians are feeling higher electricity costs as the fuel surcharge returns; NEVLEC says it’s exploring a short-term 10MW solar farm while the Nevis Geothermal Project clears final rig inspection steps in Iceland. Geothermal Progress: Nevis geothermal moves closer to mobilisation after a final independent drill rig inspection, overseen by NEVLEC and project specialists. Housing & Local Works: Prime Minister Drew inspected road resurfacing at the CLICO Housing Project, while Buckleys housing construction continues with a focus on improving local access and supporting local jobs. Fisheries Support: St. Kitts deployed 21 Fish Aggregating Devices to boost tuna access for fishers, with the programme shaped by fisher input. Governance & Accountability: A Basseterre High School project faces renewed scrutiny over overseas manufacturing, costs, and calls for transparency and full accountability. Industry Innovation: St. Kitts engineer Clecton Phillip’s Voykuh civic intelligence platform has launched on Google Play in 177 countries. Renewables Funding Call: IRENA opened a call for renewable energy project proposals across Central America and the Caribbean, including St. Kitts and Nevis.

Housing & Local Jobs: Prime Minister Drew inspected road resurfacing and patching at the CLICO Housing Project, as the government pushes infrastructure to keep pace with growth in Basseterre. Education Procurement Scrutiny: A new Basseterre High School report raises alarms over a reported EC$270m price tag, overseas manufacturing in Barbados, and near-zero local workers—calling for transparency and full accountability. Energy Independence Push: Nevis geothermal work moves forward with the drill rig undergoing final independent inspection in Iceland before mobilisation; meanwhile Nevisians are still feeling electricity pressure from the fuel surcharge, and NEVLEC is exploring a short-term 10MW solar farm while geothermal ramps up. Tourism Trade Momentum: St. Kitts and Nevis wrapped the 2026 ASTA Caribbean Showcase, with Nevis targeting U.S. travel advisors through hotel site visits and a push to sell the island beyond “classic” resort stays. Fisheries Support: St. Kitts deployed 21 Fish Aggregating Devices, boosting access to species like yellowfin tuna and crediting fisherfolk for helping build and deploy them. Civic Tech & Governance: St. Kitts engineer Clecton Phillip’s Voykuh civic intelligence platform launched on Google Play in 177 countries. Medicinal Cannabis Compliance: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority contracted GrowerIQ for a national seed-to-sale system that tracks financial transactions alongside plants from day one. Climate & Water Security: St. Kitts reported a groundwater breakthrough in Saddlers under a new EC$28m drilling project, while COP17 drought resilience messaging highlighted mounting pressure on schools, farmers, and freshwater. Community Inclusion: SKNAPD is seeking help to complete an accessible bathroom at Eden Farmstead to expand participation for persons with disabilities.

Tourism Trade Push: The 2026 ASTA Caribbean Showcase wrapped in St. Kitts (Aug. 22–26), with travel advisors and regional partners taking part in hotel site visits and sessions aimed at boosting sales and collaboration. Nevis Market Focus: Nevis Tourism Authority used the same event to pitch Nevis’ boutique stays, culture, food, wellness and “authentic island” experiences directly to 70+ U.S. advisors. Energy Costs & Transition: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley said electricity prices remain a concern after the fuel surcharge returned, while NEVLEC explores a 10MW solar farm as a short-term buffer ahead of geothermal. Geothermal Readiness: The Nevis Geothermal Project hit a key step as the drill rig undergoes final independent inspection in Iceland (Aug. 24–28) before mobilisation. Tech for Small States: St. Kitts engineer Clecton Phillip’s Voykuh civic intelligence platform launched on Google Play in 177 countries, aiming to support policy discussion and analysis for small economies. Cruise Momentum: Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas completed its last summer call at Port Zante, bringing 6,392 passengers and fresh demand for local tours and vendors. Water Security: St. Kitts reported a breakthrough from a new Saddlers groundwater well, with safe-yield testing underway after promising initial output. Housing & Local Works: Prime Minister Drew inspected road resurfacing at the CLICO Housing Project, while officials also toured ongoing construction in Buckleys.