Ma Pau opens doors to new entertainment centre

By VonDez Phipps
Reporter-SKNVibes.com

(L-R) Minister of State with responsibilities for Tourism, Hon. Richard Skerrit, Governor General Sir Cuthbert Sebastian, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas and CEO Ma Pau John Wallis cut the ribbon

Over 200 government officials, members of the diplomatic and consular corps, various service providers and private sector personnel witnessed the official ribbon cutting which signalled the opening of the one-stop entertainment centre.

The new facility is expected to house two bars, a casino, gift shop, waterfront cafe and a live performance theatre where visitors will be treated to shows highlighting the culture and heritage of the islands. It also houses the high-end Sweet Lime restaurant which is expected to attract many tourists and locals alike with its delectable cuisine.

In his featured address at the ceremony Prime Minister Hon. Dr Denzil Douglas said that the new business is an excellent addition to the tourism product of the Federation and that he hoped that it excels to new levels of entertainment, not only for the visiting guests, but also for residents.

“I wish to remind you that St. Kitts-Nevis is rated well among our visitors. It is important however that we sharpen our tourism product in a variety of ways and these may range from a better presentation of our heritage sites such as Independence Square to a broader selection of things to do while visiting this paradise of a Federation. 

This new facility here on Port Zante offers our visitors one more choice in entertainment. What is also delightful is that at the core of its concept is the utilization of local culture.

Douglas informed that within the past year, several new businesses have opened their doors and one can only be “encouraged by their diversity” in service and products offered. 

He said he believed that Kittitians and Nevisians are looking into the future with much greater confidence “even with all the difficulties that currently affect the global arena”.

PM Douglas told the large audience that the government has invested over US$75 million in infrastructural development at Port Zante and has yielded another US$100 million through the resulting economic activity that has been generated.

Dr. Douglas indicated that a new dawn is already upon the nation and stressed the importance of stepping confidently forward to embrace its opportunities. He thanked the executive and staff for their innovation and investment in what he describes as “one of the most modern and important facilities that will enhance our own cultural development in terms of entertainment while providing support for our tourism industrial growth”.