Economic transformation addressed at Awards Ceremony
Every citizen has active role to play in times ahead...says PM Douglas

By VonDez Phipps
Reporter-SKNVibes.com

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – PRIME MINISTER the Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas, during the Independence Community Service and Disaster Management Awards Ceremony yesterday, (Sep. 16), concentrated greatly on the opportunities of bringing changes to the economy in order to accommodate sustainable development in the country.

The event, which served to show appreciation to individuals who have made invaluable contributions to the development of the country, was held at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel and Casino.

The Prime Minister stressed the fact that the 25th Independence Anniversary reminds nationals of their great responsibility to achieve the goal of transforming the economy into one that is productive and sustainable. 

He acknowledged that the challenges ahead may be formidable, but noted that it is in the nation’s preparation, resoluteness and productive action that it could surmount the obstacles, noting ahead equally lies “interesting times, opportunities to explore our options for development”.

“We think of the CSME, the OECS Economic Union and political arrangements that have been emerging. Such matters are important to your future, to your children’s future, and it is critical that as citizens you engage your minds and participation in the dialogue on such matters. 

Your country’s development is not in the hands of a few; rather, each and every citizen has to play an active role in the times ahead.

“Perhaps one of the most important actions that each of us can take right now is to commit ourselves to the growing of more food. 

This is a critical foundation platform from which we can achieve greater success in other areas of endeavour.”

Dr. Douglas urged all present to practise home gardening, prudent spending and reducing waste, as they all are important contributions to every individual’s welfare. 

He additionally stated that it is equally important to invest time and resources in self-training and sharpening skills in income generating activity while, at the same time, reduce the debilitating habit of dependency and build greater self-reliance. ~~Adz:Right~~

Prime Minister Douglas indicated that the next 25 years of Independence call for “more active communities as a vital ingredient to sustainable development, and most importantly, it calls for a sustained and positive engagement of our young people”.