The Citizen Security Secretariat (CSS) will host a pivotal event to present the results of the 90-Day Campaign Against Crime and Violence. This initiative launched on 6th September 2024, has focused on addressing crime through a public health lens, aiming to reshape the nation’s approach to community safety and violence prevention.
The public engagement, scheduled for Thursday, 5th December 2024, at the CUNA Caribbean Conference Centre in Fortlands, Basseterre, will begin at 9:00 am. Titled Beyond the 90 Days, the event signals the transition into the next phase of the national crime reduction strategy.
Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, also Minister of National Security and Health and Chairman of the Citizen Security Task Force, will lead the session alongside other high-level officials, including Senator Isalean Phillip, Co-chair of the Task Force; Permanent Secretary Naeemah Hazelle; CSS Coordinator Eartha Carey; and public health and security expert Hance Richards.
Reflecting on the initiative’s impact, Dr. Drew stated, “Crime is not merely a matter of law enforcement; it’s a public health issue. This campaign has laid the groundwork for a safer and more resilient St. Kitts and Nevis by focusing on prevention and intervention.”
The event will feature:
A comprehensive review of the campaign’s achievements.
Data-driven insights were gathered during the 90 days.
Plans for advancing strategies to reduce crime and violence.
Following the presentation, stakeholders and attendees will engage in dialogue with government officials to outline actionable steps for sustaining progress.
On Tuesday, ahead of the event, Coordinator Carey emphasised the importance of community involvement: “The findings we’ll share are a springboard for deeper collaboration. Together, we can build safer communities rooted in shared responsibility and trust.”
The event is open to the public, with participation encouraged from all sectors of society. It will also be broadcast live on ZIZ Television and its YouTube and Facebook social media platforms.
The final engagement of the 90-Day Campaign Against Crime and Violence serves as a platform for citizens and residents to contribute their voices to shaping the ongoing crime reduction strategies under the broader national theme Citizen Security: Partnership for Safer Communities.
This marks a significant milestone for St. Kitts and Nevis as it continues to confront the complex challenges of crime and violence with innovation, collaboration, and a focus on long-term solutions.