Manhattan, New York Meeting Between Afreximbank President and St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister

Key Discussions Focus on Transformative Projects

Evergreen Aquaculture Project

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, Honourable Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, held a significant meeting with Dr. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, at the St. Kitts and Nevis Permanent Mission in New York on Monday, 23 September 2024.

The discussions centered on the Evergreen Aquaculture Project, which aims to significantly boost St. Kitts and Nevis’ seafood production and exports. Both Prime Minister Dr. Drew and President Oramah emphasized the need to expedite the project, highlighting its potential economic and environmental benefits for the region.

Creative Industries Proposal

Another crucial topic covered was the Creative Industries Proposal, seeking to harness the talents and cultural assets of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This initiative aligns with Afreximbank’s support for creative economies, aiming to establish the OECS as a recognized creative hub globally. It also aligns with ongoing efforts to promote skills development, innovation, and economic growth across the creative sectors.

Upcoming AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) 2025

Discussions also touched on the forthcoming AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) 2025, scheduled to be hosted by Grenada. This forum reiterates the commitment to deepening trade ties and fostering stronger economic partnerships between Africa and the Caribbean.

Meeting Attendees

Prime Minister Dr. Drew was accompanied by Her Excellency Dr. Mutryce Williams, Permanent Representative of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations, and Naeemah Hazelle, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office. Meanwhile, President Oramah was joined by Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President of the Intra-African Trade Bank (IATB) at Afreximbank.

Brief History

Afreximbank approved US$1.5 billion to support CARICOM countries that ratify the agreement, offering access to its financial resources in December 2022. In April 2023, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew successfully introduced the Caribbean Community and Africa Export-Import Bank (Partnership Agreement) Bill, 2023, to the National Assembly. This Bill formalised the partnership between CARICOM Member States and Afreximbank, which was established during the inaugural Africa-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) in September 2022.

Conclusion

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and developing key projects aimed at boosting growth and improving living standards in St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as the broader Caribbean region.

FAQs

* What were the key areas of discussion during the meeting?
– The discussions centered on the Evergreen Aquaculture Project and the Creative Industries Proposal.
* Which organization is participating in this partnership?
– Afreximbank is partnering with CARICOM Member States, specifically St. Kitts and Nevis.
* When will the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) 2025 take place?
– The forum will be held in Grenada.