Geoffrey Hanley predicts a growth of 7.3% for St Kitts and Nevis tourism in 2024

St Kitts and Nevis: Deputy Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis Geoffrey Hanley has predicted a growth of 7.3% for St Kitts and Nevis tourism in 2024. He was speaking during the New Year's Eve message.

During the address, he also recalled the achievements in healthcare, education, housing, tourism and agriculture during his New Year address.

Notably, Deputy Prime Minister was speaking on behalf of Prime Terrance Drew who is battling with flu virus. He also wished the PM a full and speedy recovery.

In his address, he mentioned that over the last 16 months, the Government has prioritized the needs of the people by working towards the transformation of the nation through sustainability.

[caption id="attachment_65647" align="aligncenter" width="1599"] Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley[/caption]

The various sectors that were given a special focus included healthcare, financial stability through investments, education and digital transformation, housing, tourism (the main source of income of the country) and agriculture.

Projected Growth For Tourism Sector

Deputy Prime Minister Hanley said that the tourism sector is estimated to grow by 7.3% in 2024, as the Government aims to enhance the overall visitor experience through major upgrades. They have already shifted to the Common Use Terminal Equipment, which will mark the start of an improved experience for travellers.

The constraint in the present system, which limits airlines to specific counters, will be solved as this upgrade will better accommodate the expanded airlift situation.

Minister Geoffrey Hanley also highlighted that several plans are underway to streamline the check-in process by installing kiosks and executing informational screens throughout the terminal.

There are also efforts to enhance operational efficiency at the ports, and this development aligns with the Government's vision for a Sustainable Island State.

"As we progress, our goal is to convert our ports to better support this vision. Our promise remains strong as we energetically work towards solidifying tourism as a foundational pillar of our Sustainable Island State," Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley. 

Financial Stability

About Financial Stability, the Deputy PM said that the Government is actively pursuing investments in renewable energy components and semiconductor production, and the CBI program stands as a driving force for substantial and beneficial transformation.

He said that whether it is directing investments toward education, building resilient infrastructure or shifting towards green energy, the CBI Programme has always brought positive changes.

Overhaul of the Healthcare Sector

In this healthcare sector, the Minister said that the Government executed a comprehensive overhaul of the healthcare system, marking a major transformation by launching 15 new dialysis machines and introducing the renal transplant program.

Furthermore, the eye clinic was also elevated with the introduction of state-of-the-art equipment, which brought huge relief to thousands of citizens and residents. He added that this has led to a massive surge in eye surgeries, effectively decreasing the long queue of patients awaiting emergency assistance.

In 2023, the government also recognized and granted qualified nurses their rightful positions as well as well-deserved promotions within the healthcare workforce.

As per the Minister, the government also expanded training opportunities for the medical staff to ensure they stay informed of the latest advancements and techniques in the field.

Also, he said that the government undertook significant renovations at the JNF General Hospital, which created a more comforting and healing environment. This included installing air conditioners in the surgical and medical wards, enriching the lobby and enhancing the overall landscaping to uplift the facility.

In his conclusion message, Minister Geoffrey Hanley said that when everyone bids farewell to 2023 and steps into the promise of 2024, they must celebrate the harmony which defines them. He added, "Together, we shall build a St Kitts and Nevis where every resident feels at home. I wish you all a New Year filled with hope, safety, and shared achievements."