Prime Minister Emphasizes Need for Accelerated Action on Gender Equality

Basseterre, St. Kitts —

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality, emphasizing that women’s empowerment is not just a moral imperative but a necessity for national progress.

A Call to Action

Speaking at the International Women’s Day Award Ceremony hosted by the Department of Gender Affairs, Prime Minister Drew called for a shift from recognition to accelerated action, ensuring that women in St. Kitts and Nevis continue to break barriers in all sectors of society.

Acknowledging Progress, But Not Complacent

The Prime Minister acknowledged the remarkable strides made in the Federation, including the historic appointment of the first female Governor-General and the highest number of women in Parliament and Cabinet in the nation’s history. He also highlighted the groundbreaking achievements of women in medicine, celebrating Dr. Daveen Wilkin’s as the first female Medical Chief of Staff and Dr. Joylette Woodley-Fassale as the first female Chief Surgeon at the Joseph N. France General Hospital. These milestones, he noted, underscore the importance of providing women with opportunities to excel.

“We must never take these achievements for granted. However, there are still barriers that must be overcome,” Dr. Drew stated. “It is not enough to simply recognize the day, give speeches, and applaud progress—we must accelerate action. When we act decisively, we achieve what was once deemed impossible, and history is made.”

Empowering Women, Empowering Nations

He reaffirmed his administration’s stance on gender equality, emphasizing that empowering women is a cornerstone of the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda. He pointed out that countries thrive when women are given the opportunities they rightfully deserve, urging political leaders and policymakers to make gender inclusivity a foundational pillar of governance.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Dr. Drew concluded by commending the awardees and encouraging all women to continue advocating for themselves and future generations. He emphasized that women’s empowerment is not solely a women’s issue, but a collective responsibility of the entire society. As St. Kitts and Nevis continue to forge a path toward sustainable development, the Prime Minister made it clear that his administration remains fully committed to dismantling barriers and accelerating the advancement of women across all sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the government’s position on gender equality?
A: The government is fully committed to advancing gender equality and empowering women, recognizing it as a moral imperative and a necessity for national progress.

Q: What is the government’s plan to address gender inequality?
A: The government is working to accelerate action, providing women with opportunities to excel in all sectors, and making gender inclusivity a foundational pillar of governance.

Q: What is the government’s vision for a more equal society?
A: The government envisions a society where women are empowered to contribute fully, and where gender equality is a fundamental aspect of national development.