PM Drew Hails SKMF 2025 a Resounding Success, Issues High Praise for Homegrown Talent
The Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis has hailed the 27th edition of the Saint Kitts Music Festival as a resounding success, describing it as a powerful testament to the nation’s cultural dynamism and growing global appeal. Speaking with journalists on night three of the festival, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the organizers, sponsors, and thousands of patrons who helped make the event one of the most memorable to date.
While the international acts delivered as expected, he reserved the highest praise for the homegrown entertainers who took to the stage, commending their talent, professionalism, and ability to stand shoulder to shoulder with international acts. “Our local artistes continue to prove that world-class talent resides right here in Saint Kitts and Nevis,” he noted, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting the creative industries and nurturing the next generation of cultural ambassadors.
PM Drew made special mention of Olympian, turned singer, Virgil Hodge, whose stirring performance he said exceeded expectations. “I came down specifically to see her and to encourage her,” he shared. “To see her backed by local musicians was a powerful statement, it shows that this platform isn’t just for the international stars, but also for our own.”
Addressing critics who questioned the cost associated with securing top-tier international acts, Dr. Drew responded plainly: “An event of this magnitude is an investment, one that brings immeasurable returns in terms of national pride, global name recognition, and economic activity. You can’t put a price on that kind of value.”
He went on to highlight how the festival helps boost tourism and supports a growing ecosystem of local businesses and industries. From hairstylists and nail technicians to vendors and creatives, Dr. Drew underscored that the benefits ripple throughout the society. “When people come to the festival, they don’t just come for the music. They support local services and industries. This is the creative economy at work.”
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining and growing the music festival as a pillar of both cultural identity and tourism development. “We’ve been asked for the past three years how we intend to sustain this. Not only are we sustaining it, we’re expanding it. The festival continues to be a catalyst for visitor arrivals and local economic stimulation.”
In alignment with that vision, the Prime Minister spoke passionately about the government’s broader investment in the creative economy. He pointed to increased support for local artistes, the appointment of multiple creative ambassadors, and targeted programs that offer both training and exposure to emerging talent.
“To our young creatives: keep working. Keep striving. This stage is yours too,” he said.
The Prime Minister also shared plans to strengthen diaspora engagement, noting that a dedicated unit has been expanded to deepen engagement. With two appointed ambassadors now working within the unit, the government has made outreach a strategic priority. “Even tonight at the Music Festival, we have a box dedicated to the diaspora,that is how serious we take it,” he shared. The Prime Minister encouraged nationals living abroad to contribute to national development in any way they can, whether from home or afar. “You don’t have to come home to live, but you can contribute from wherever you are,” he said, assuring the diaspora that they remain an integral part of the nation’s fabric regardless of distance.
He also revealed, that for the first time, a dedicated box at the festival had been reserved for members of the diaspora, a symbolic and strategic step in deepening ties with Kittitians and Nevisians living abroad.
Dr. Drew also addressed regional concerns like climate resilience and sustainability, emphasising collaboration through organizations like CDEMA and investments in local infrastructure to safeguard tourism. He noted that even challenges like sargassum seaweed are being turned into research and innovation opportunities.
As the curtain closed on the 27th edition of the Saint Kitts Music Festival, the message from the nation’s leader was clear, the creative spirit of Saint Kitts and Nevis is alive and thriving. Underpinned by strategic investment and cultural pride, the fesitival is now a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.
With homegrown stars shining as brightly as international headliners, and a government committed to building an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable creative economy, Saint Kitts and Nevis is charting a bold new path, one where culture, commerce, and community rise together.
And if this year’s festival is any indication, the best is yet to come.
