Government of Saint Lucia

In the headlines: The Town of Soufriere will play host to this year’s annual National Independence Rally and Independence show case and; The Taiwanese Embassy Brings Hope to Marginalized Families

For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF) mourns the passing of a distinguished former director on the board of the organization, Mr. Innocent Aimable. Mr. Aimable served with dedication and passion during his tenure from 2021 to 2023, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and the community at large.

He was also an esteemed founding member of the Soufriere Action Theatre, where his commitment to arts and culture was evident. His influence reached beyond the boardroom, making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of the region, and reflecting his belief in the power of creativity to bring communities together.

In addition to his contributions to the arts, Mr. Aimable was a stalwart figure in the local community, having served as a teacher and leaving an enduring legacy of education and mentorship. His commitment to fostering knowledge and empowering others underscored his belief in the transformative power of education.

As a local contractor, Mr. Aimable contributed to the development and infrastructure of the Soufriere community and surrounding areas.

The loss of Mr. Aimable is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we carry forward the values he championed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire community during this difficult time.

In memory of a remarkable community leader and advocate for arts, culture, education, and community development, the board, management and staff of the SRDF pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Mr. Innocent Aimable. 

COVID-19 Update

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has noted an increase in the number of persons presenting with flu-like illnesses during the last 2 months. The increase is observed both in visits to the emergency departments and Wellness Centers. This is particularly the case for children less than 5 years of age.

On a global level, in January, 2024, the WHO Director-General indicated that in December, 2023 there was a 42 percent increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations and a 62 percent increase in ICU admissions compared to the previous month.

Nationally, in addition to COVID-19, the Epidemiology Unit at the Ministry of Health has recorded an increase in confirmed cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza, for the period October 08 to December, 2023. Similar trends were detected globally mainly in parts of Europe, Central Asia and North America due to changes in the temperate Northern hemisphere.

On January 17, 2024 the Ministry of Health received laboratory results from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) confirming the presence of Omicron variant HV.1 in samples submitted by the national reference Ezra Long Laboratory.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that HV.1 has become the most dominant variant in the United States, with symptoms closely resembling a cold or the flu. These symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and congestion.

Despite the fact that HV.1 seems to be highly transmissible, experts agree that the new subvariant is not known to cause severe disease. This is the likely cause for the increased respiratory illness noted in country.

The public is encouraged to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses by the following measures:

• maintain proper hand hygiene with regular hand washing

• cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing

• wash hands thoroughly after coughing or sneezing

• wear a face mask where possible in crowded places and when presenting flu like symptoms

• avoid sharing cups and utensils

• avoid close contact with others who are sick

• clean surfaces and objects using household detergent

• refrain from sending sick children to school or daycare centers until they are resolved

• If symptomatic, avoid contact with people at higher risk of severe illness such as infants, older people and those who are immunocompromised

• educational institutions, work places, business places, and healthcare facilities are advised to strengthen sanitary protocols to reduce transmission

• consult a healthcare professional if flu like symptoms linger or worsen

The Ministry of Health reminds the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage the use of the flu vaccine which is available free of charge at the various wellness centers. The COVID-19 Janssen vaccine is also available and can be taken as a booster especially for persons with risk factors or chronic illness. COVID-19 testing is also available free of charge at the Wellness Centers.

The Ministry of Health alerts the general public to take the necessary measures to reduce the impact of respiratory illness at this time. Further updates will be provided.

In the headlines: The Youth Economy Agency takes further steps in aiding young entrepreneurs and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports educates on climate change and its impact on health.

For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Department of Infrastructure recently gave an update on the Commencement of Works on the West Coast Road Rehabilitation project and the Anse La Raye Bridge Reconstruction and; The quality of health services provided to Saint Lucians through Universal Health Coverage will be improved significantly following a recent handover to the Ministry of Health. 

For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Hon. Wayne Girard highlights the government's commitment to prioritizing infrastructure construction in 2024, and the Ministry of Education is engaging teachers in the effective use of digital content for enhancing classroom instruction.

For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Export Saint Lucia's CEO, Sunita Daniel, along with team members, conducted a comprehensive review on January 16, 2024, of the resounding success achieved during Phase One of the Apiculture Project at the Bordelais Correctional Facility.

Initiated in 2022 in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the groundbreaking Apiculture Project engaged seven female inmates in an enriching beekeeping workshop, providing them with valuable skills, opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation. The recent visit by the Export Saint Lucia team underscored the commendable achievements of Phase One and laid the foundation for the eagerly anticipated implementation of Phase Two.

“We're set to supply additional hives to the Bordelais Correctional Facility. Moreover, a branding and marketing initiative is in the pipeline. Soon, St. Lucia can expect to find honey-branded products on supermarket shelves and for export, originating from the Bordelais Correctional Facility. The goal is to equip inmates with agricultural and entrepreneurial skills that will reduce the likelihood of recommitting once they leave the prison” remarks Sunita Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia.

Phase Two of the Apiculture Project is set to be a transformative extension, focusing on the expansion of training initiatives and the conversion of raw honey into high-value products. This strategic move aligns with Export Saint Lucia's ambitious journey to substantially boost exports of local honey.

Officials at the Bordelais Correctional Facility expressed strong endorsement for the Apiculture Project, acknowledging its positive impact on the participating inmates and recognizing the potential for broader community benefits.

Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport Progress Update on Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Reconstruction Project

The Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport is pleased to update the public on the ongoing progress of the Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Reconstruction Project (MHWCRP), a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and connectivity between the Capital and the West to Southwestern part of the island.

1. WEST COAST ROAD

Trinidad-based firm NAMALCO Inc. has been awarded the contract for the West Coast Road reconstruction project. Currently, the focus is on retaining wall construction and roadway maintenance spanning from the Anse La Raye Bridge to Canaries.

   2. ANSE LA RAYE BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION

O.B. Sadoo Engineering Services has been entrusted with the crucial task of reconstructing the Anse La Raye Bridge. Demolition works have commenced in the bridge's vicinity, with steel fabrications for a temporary bypass bridge being assembled on-site.

   3.  THE MILLENNIUM HIGHWAY TO CUL DE SAC ROUNDABOUT

C.O. Williams Construction Ltd. is advancing the Millennium Highway component of the project. The current emphasis is on the construction of the Cul de Sac Roundabout, sidewalks, and structural works. Paving works are slated to commence following the completion of these key elements. Single lane closures may also be experienced while works also continue along sections of the Millennium Highway.

The Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport emphasizes the importance of safety for both motorists and pedestrians in the vicinity of the project sites. Extreme caution is advised, and all are urged to adhere to the associated signs, signals, and cautionary devices in place.

The MHWCRP is a vital investment in Saint Lucia's infrastructure, and the Department expresses gratitude for the public's cooperation and understanding during these crucial developments.

The Building Resilience for Adaptation to Climate Change and Climate Variability in Agriculture in Saint Lucia (BRACCVAS) project is actively addressing the escalating vulnerabilities in the agriculture sector through an ongoing analysis aimed at mapping challenges across Saint Lucia. This initiative seeks to enhance resilience and effectively combat climate change, with a specific focus on Geographic Information Services within the agriculture sector.

In today’s headlines: The Minister for Justice and National Security aims to strengthen national security measures in 2024, and the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers 2023 comes to an official end.

For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc