African-Caribbean Atlantic Cooperation: A New Era of Trade and Economic Growth

Introduction

Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, highlighted that one of the key outcomes of his recent working visit to Nigeria was the landmark signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Nigeria-based Green Economic Zone (GEZ) Special Economic Zone Management Company, paving the way for the development of a state-of-the-art Agro-Hub Warehouse and Logistics Center in Saint and Nevis.

The Partnership

This strategic move marks an important step toward creating an African-Caribbean trade bridge aimed at boosting both economic and trade relations between Africa and the Caribbean.

Prime Minister Dr. Drew, while engaging members of the media during Wednesday’s (April 02, 2025) edition of the Roundtable, stated that the President of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed his full support for the venture, noting the importance of fostering strong economic ties between the African continent and the Caribbean region.

Objectives and Benefits

The main objective of this project is the establishment of the African-Caribbean Atlantic Cooperation (ACAC), a landmark initiative that seeks to facilitate the direct movement of goods between the West Coast of Africa and the Caribbean. This ambitious undertaking will enhance trade, with a special focus on the export of agricultural products from Saint Kitts and Nevis.

“Our discussion is that we don’t want things to come one direction,” said Prime Minister Drew. “So there will be meetings between the minister [of agriculture] and the producers here in Saint Kitts and Nevis to get our products ready, because we intend to send [our products] to the west of Africa.”

Conclusion

This historic partnership signals a bold step for Saint Kitts and Nevis, as the smallest nation in the Caribbean takes a leading role in establishing meaningful trade relations with Africa. Through the African-Caribbean Atlantic Cooperation, Saint Kitts and Nevis is paving the way for long-term economic growth, cultural exchange, and mutual prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the African-Caribbean Atlantic Cooperation (ACAC)?

A: The ACAC is a landmark initiative that seeks to facilitate the direct movement of goods between the West Coast of Africa and the Caribbean, with a special focus on the export of agricultural products from Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Q: What are the benefits of the ACAC for Saint Kitts and Nevis?

A: The ACAC is expected to enhance trade, promote economic growth, and create opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual prosperity between Africa and the Caribbean.

Q: What is the role of the Nigerian team in the upcoming Investment Gateway Summit?

A: A special Nigerian team will attend the upcoming Investment Gateway Summit in Saint Kitts and Nevis, scheduled for May 2025, where the continued development of this initiative will be explored.