Launch of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Introduction

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 25, 2025 (SKNIS) – In a groundbreaking move towards improving public health, economic growth, and social justice, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis officially launched the Medicinal Cannabis Authority today, Friday, April 25, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Federation’s journey to establish a regulated, responsible, and inclusive medicinal cannabis industry.

The Launch Event

The launch event also celebrated the official opening of the Authority’s new office located on Prince’s Street in Basseterre, symbolising a fresh chapter in national policy and healthcare access.

Objectives of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority

At the launch event, Chairperson of the Cannabis Board, Mrs. Jihan Williams-Knight, outlined the Authority’s central mandate—to create and manage safe, legal avenues of access to cannabis for adult patients over the age of 21 who suffer from health conditions that may benefit from cannabis treatment. She emphasised the Authority’s dual responsibility to promote access and education, while remaining vigilant in preventing cannabis misuse and protecting vulnerable populations.

Statement from the Chairperson

“It is our job as the Medicinal Cannabis Authority to navigate these legal nuances, address public health concerns, and dispel negative stigmas to ensure that access to medicinal cannabis is clear, transparent, and never unreasonably denied,” Mrs. Williams-Knight stated.

Minister of Agriculture’s Statement

Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Samal Duggins, who has direct oversight for the Medicinal Cannabis Authority, hailed the event as a bold step forward, both culturally and economically.

“We stand at a truly exciting moment, entering the global medicinal cannabis industry with the advantage of insight, experience, and readiness,” said Minister Duggins. “By learning from others, we have crafted an approach that is thoughtful, strategic, and uniquely our own.”