Basseterre, Saint Kitts, December 1, 2025 (PMO)— Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew at present reaffirmed the Authorities’s unwavering dedication to ending AIDS by 2030, at the same time as international donor cuts threaten important HIV/AIDS programmes throughout the Caribbean.
In his 2025 World AIDS Day Handle, Prime Minister Drew warned that worldwide reductions in funding pose an actual problem for sustaining progress, noting that “as a result of international donor funding cuts, this assist is now in danger, and the Federation might not obtain the complete quantity pledged.” He emphasised that this actuality calls for stronger nationwide management and expanded home funding to safeguard important well being providers.
Highlighting this 12 months’s theme “Overcoming Disruption, Reworking the AIDS Response” Dr. Drew harassed that St. Kitts and Nevis should act decisively to guard latest good points, notably for younger folks and susceptible teams. “This 12 months’s theme urges the Ministry of Well being and the Authorities of St. Kitts & Nevis to behave decisively, making certain adequate funding, rising annual finances assist, and forging new strategic partnerships,” he stated.
The Prime Minister pointed to rising infections amongst folks aged 15–24 as a severe name to motion, noting that whereas all individuals residing with HIV within the Federation obtain free, life-saving treatment, prevention efforts have to be strengthened. He underscored that HIV is now not a dying sentence, stating, “With common testing, early prognosis, and therapy, folks residing with HIV can obtain an undetectable viral load and stay lengthy, wholesome, productive lives.”
Dr. Drew additionally highlighted the resilience and success of the Nationwide HIV/AIDS Program, rooted in fairness, confidentiality, and carefree from stigma or discrimination. He lauded the tireless work of the Nationwide HIV/AIDS Secretariat, public well being groups, and key group companions, together with SKN Alliance and SKN Care, for supporting prevention, therapy, and social providers throughout all ranges of care.
Because the nation approaches the festive season, the Prime Minister issued a private enchantment for accountable sexual behaviour and routine testing: “Make HIV testing a part of your annual medical check-up… HIV testing and condoms are free in any respect public well being services. Defend your self in the course of the upcoming Christmas and Carnival season.”
Prime Minister Drew concluded by reaffirming that the battle towards HIV/AIDS requires unity, compassion, and sustained nationwide effort. “All of us have a task to play within the battle towards HIV/AIDS… This battle requires sustained funding and united motion. Allow us to proceed working collectively… as we attempt to finish AIDS by 2030.”
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