BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — MINISTER with responsibility for the Creative Economy, Samal Duggins, believes cultural tourism will play an increasingly important role in the country's economic growth as the global tourism landscape continues to evolve.
His comments come on the heels of what officials have described as a successful 2026 St. Kitts Music Festival, which attracted thousands of patrons from across the Caribbean and beyond to Warner Park for the three-night event.
Speaking with SKNVibes Entertainment, Duggins said while cruise tourism remains a major contributor to the local economy, cultural tourism offers a new avenue for sustainable growth.
"We believe that cultural tourism presents a new frontier where you have some of the most iconic artists, cultural representations in the region and some of the most internationally relevant voices converging on our 60 square miles. It brings the world to our shores, and the St. Kitts Music Festival is a classic example of that. So is our National Carnival."
The minister pointed to the economic impact of the 2025-2026 National Carnival, noting that more than 22,000 visitors travelled to the Federation during the festivities, generating nearly EC$30 million in economic activity.
He argued that investments in the creative sector extend beyond entertainment, creating jobs, boosting economic activity and enhancing the country's regional and international profile.
Duggins also praised this year's turnout at the music festival, describing the opening night as one of the largest crowds he has seen.
He said the success of events such as the music festival demonstrates that the creative industries should no longer be viewed as hobbies, but as viable economic sectors capable of generating significant income and opportunities.
According to the minister, today's entertainers can earn substantial incomes, highlighting the growing value of careers in the creative economy.
Reflecting on his own experience, Duggins recalled wanting to become an entertainer as a child but feeling pressured to pursue more traditional career paths.
"I don't regret my academic journey," he said, noting that he excelled in school, "but at the end of the day, I just wanted to be an entertainer."
As minister, he said he wants to ensure future generations can pursue careers in the creative industries without facing the same stigma.
Duggins also commended the standard of local performers at this year's festival, noting the significant progress made over the years.
Having performed on the festival stage himself in 2004, he said he has witnessed the evolution of local talent firsthand.
"Today we've seen our locals standing shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world," he said. "Sometimes it's hard to tell who's local and who's international because the crowd response and the quality of the performances are comparable."
He added that the continued development of local artistes reinforces his belief that St. Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself as a regional leader in the creative economy.
