St Kitts and Nevis is facing one of its most severe droughts in recent history, with Prime Minister Terrance Drew warning that climate change is already affecting the lives of people across the Federation.

Speaking in the National Assembly on June 11, Drew, who also has responsibility for the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), described the drought as a major national challenge driven by factors including the effects of El Niño and broader climate change impacts.

He said rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns and increasingly unpredictable weather conditions are placing growing pressure on the country’s water resources.

“Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increasingly unpredictable weather events are realities that small island developing states, such as ours, must now confront with urgency and determination,” Drew said.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the challenges being faced by households, businesses and communities as a result of water shortages, saying the government understands the frustration caused by the situation.

He said climate resilience has remained a priority since his administration took office in August 2022, noting that the government moved quickly after receiving forecasts warning of worsening drought conditions and water challenges.

Among the measures being implemented are expanded drilling programmes, the construction of a major desalination plant, upgrades to water distribution networks and the installation of new pipelines and pumping systems aimed at improving water supply reliability.

Drew said the government’s goal is to develop a modern and sustainable water system capable of meeting the needs of residents and citizens.

“Our objective remains clear to build a modern, resilient, and sustainable water system capable of delivering reliable access to water for every citizen and resident of Saint Kitts and Nevis,” he said.

The government is also working with regional and international partners, including the Taiwan, on water security initiatives.

Drew said the current drought highlights the need for small island states in the Caribbean to continue investing in climate adaptation and resilience measures as the impacts of climate change become more frequent and severe.