Basseterre, St. Kitts (PMO) – The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has reaffirmed its commitment to regional climate resilience and sustainable development through an agreement establishing the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC).
An official Hand-Over and Ratification Ceremony was held this morning at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.
Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Hon. Dr Terrance M. Drew, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Dr Geoffrey Hanley emphasised the government’s strategic vision for a sustainable future, underscoring the importance of attracting climate finance to supplement national resources. He highlighted the crucial behind-the-scenes work of the Ministry of Sustainable Development and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment in securing funding and partnerships to advance the nation’s climate resilience agenda.
Dr. Hanley acknowledged the global financial challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and called for innovation and strategic engagement with international financial institutions. He also welcomed the adoption of the Multi-dimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) by the United Nations, which recognizes the unique vulnerabilities of SIDS and enhances their access to development assistance. However, he stressed that continued advocacy and innovation are required to address the nation’s pressing climate needs.
A key highlight of the event was the government’s formal recognition of the CCCCC—commonly known as the 5 Cs—as a pivotal institution in securing critical climate financing. Under the leadership of Dr Colin Young – Executive Director of the 5 C’s, the 5 Cs has successfully mobilized funding from major international partners, including the Green Climate Fund, the Adaptation Fund, USAID, the European Union, and the United Kingdom. These efforts have resulted in tangible climate adaptation and resilience projects that directly benefit the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.
“The work of the 5 Cs is not just about ticking boxes or achieving project milestones. It is about driving meaningful, lasting impacts that strengthen our resilience and safeguard our future. These are the types of partnerships we value—ones that align with our national priorities and deliver tangible results for our citizens,” Deputy Prime Minister Hanley’s message stated.
St. Kitts and Nevis formally ratified the Agreement Establishing the 5 Cs in August 2024, reinforcing its alignment with the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA). Dr. Hanley noted that climate resilience remains a central pillar of SISA, with its seven interconnected pillars—including Food Security, Water Security, and Energy Security—forming the foundation of the country’s long-term sustainable development vision.
“As a government, we remain unwavering in our commitment to taking bold actions to fortify these pillars. Whatever steps are necessary to ensure the long-term security and prosperity of St. Kitts and Nevis, we will take them without hesitation,” he reaffirmed.
“Let us move forward with determination, resilience, and hope for a brighter tomorrow,” Dr. Hanley encouraged.