Saint Lucia 2026 Jazz and Arts Festival
With four lives already lost to traffic accidents so far this year, the National Association of Driving Schools has appealed for immediate action from both the police and the courts, arguing that reckless driving will continue unchecked unless serious legal consequences are enforced.
Vice President of the National Association of Driving Schools, Kingson Jean, said the problem must be tackled at its roots through sustained education and cultural change, beginning from early childhood.
“In the long term, what we should do is have a proper education process where we could inculcate into our young people from preschool the importance of road safety, how to cross the road as a pedestrian, how to ride a bicycle,” Jean said.
He added that children should be equipped and taught correctly from a young age.
“Give a child a bicycle, give them a helmet, give them the elbow pad and the knee pad, give them the proper shoes for them to ride. So, you train them from a tender age.”
However, Jean stressed that education alone is not enough and that responsibility for road safety must be shared across society.
“It is everybody’s business to ensure that persons use the road safely,” he said.
He urged members of the public to take a more active role in discouraging dangerous behavior on the roads.
“So, you see somebody driving without a seatbelt, make sure they put it on. You see that person driving with you, they’re driving way too fast over the speed limit, tell them to slow down, chastise them,” Jean stated.
The association maintains that without firm policing and swift judicial action against offenders, warnings and awareness campaigns will have limited effect.
The theme for 2026, “Douvan Asanm – Nourishing our people, strengthening our nation,” sets the tone for activities that will blend cultural pride with business innovation and tourism promotion.
Speaking at the launch, Co-Chair of the Independence Planning Committee, Agosta Degazon, underscored the deeper meaning behind this year’s theme.
“As we celebrate 47 years of independence, let us remember this. True independence means having the power to sustain ourselves from farm to plate, from mind to heart,” he said.
Degazon called on citizens to fully embrace the spirit of the campaign, adding, “So today, let us move forward with energy, unity and purpose.”
The launch signals a broad national effort that will stretch from community-level events to initiatives aimed at showcasing Saint Lucia on the international stage.
Government officials say the focus this year is not only celebration, but participation and collective ownership of the Independence process.
Minister in the Ministry of Tourism, John Paul Estephane, praised the work already undertaken by organizers and encouraged widespread involvement.
“Take the opportunity to commend our Cabinet Secretary and the Independence Planning Committee for the wonderful programme that they have put together for independence,” he said.
He also issued a call to Saint Lucians everywhere to get involved, noting, “I trust all Saint Lucians at home and abroad will participate in the independence event. So, thank you. Let’s keep moving. Douvan Asanm.”
A major component of the Independence season will be the Business Expo, which organizers say has become a highly anticipated platform for entrepreneurs.
Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia, Sunita Daniel, said preparations are already generating strong interest from the business community.
“We are looking forward to the Business Expo. Our small businesses in particular are looking forward to the Business Expo,” she explained.
Daniel noted that demand has been building for months.
“We’ve had people asking us since December, when we are sending the EOIs out. And we know that one of the things that we have every year is tremendous demand for participation in the Business Expo,” she said.
This year, organizers are aiming to broaden participation even further by welcoming new and emerging enterprises.
“Another thing that we are going to be doing this time is trying to expand as much as possible, bringing in new businesses,” Daniel stated.
She pointed to government support programmes as key drivers of entrepreneurship, noting that “we’ve seen hundreds of small businesses being established in Saint Lucia because of the Youth Economy Agency” and similar growth linked to the MSME loan grant facility.
According to Daniel, the Expo is designed to give these enterprises a national platform.
“What we want to do is to give them a platform so where they can exhibit what they have on sale. Not only what they manufacture, but services and our creatives,” she said. She added that the event reflects the essence of the Independence season itself.
“What the Business Expo does, it allows everybody in Saint Lucia to get an opportunity to showcase who they are. And one of the things you would have seen the last time is a fusion of food, dance, music, business, money, all of that at this one location.”
As the countdown to February 2026 continues, organizers say the “Douvan Asanm” campaign is intended to inspire a renewed sense of shared purpose, ensuring that Saint Lucia’s 47th Independence anniversary is not just commemorated, but lived throughout the year.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sharon Belmar George, said the year reflected both advancement and warning signs for the nation’s health profile.
“In 2025, the health system expanded universal health coverage, improved health facilities, managed many health programmes, health conditions ranging from infectious diseases, chronic non-communicable diseases, international, regional, and local collaborations and medical missions,” she explained.
According to the Ministry of Health, life expectancy in Saint Lucia now stands at 70.2 years for men and 77.8 years for women. At the same time, fertility and birth rates continue to decline.
Dr Belmar George noted that “a total of 1,326 live births were recorded for 2025, representing a crude birth rate of 7.7 per thousand women of childbearing age.”
She added that “this is a 6.1 decrease from the previous year 2024,” while the total fertility rate per woman of childbearing age has dropped to 1.06, compared to 1.54 in 2016.
Communicable disease surveillance showed overall improvement, particularly in respiratory and vector-borne illnesses.
“We note a continued reduction in COVID-19 cases from 3.4 per 10,000 in 2024 to 2.0 per 10,000 in 2025,” Dr Belmar George said, although she cautioned that “we continue to see new variants of COVID-19, influenza A, influenza B, and respiratory syncytial virus.”
Tuberculosis cases increased slightly, with three new cases reported in 2025 compared to one in 2024. Gastroenteritis cases, however, fell sharply.
“A total of 276 cases of gastroenteritis were registered by the Sentinel Surveillance System,” the Chief Medical Officer stated.
“This represents an 85 percent decrease in cases from the previous year, 2024.” She noted that 12 percent of cases involved children under five, with outbreaks occurring in March and June. “Twenty-four percent of the cases were from Soufriere, 21 percent from Castries, and 14 percent from the Vieux Fort region,” she said.
HIV diagnoses also declined slightly.
“In 2025, 26 new cases of HIV were diagnosed. This represents a 2.6 percent decrease from 2024,” Dr Belmar George reported, adding that 62 percent of the new cases were male. There are currently 1,003 persons living with HIV in Saint Lucia, of whom 58 percent are male.
Vector-borne diseases showed some of the most dramatic changes.
“The Ministry of Health noted a significant, that is a 91 percent decrease in dengue fever in 2025 as compared to 2024,” she said, noting that 432 cases were recorded in the previous year. Of those cases, “73 percent occurred in the southern districts of Vieux Fort, Micoud, and Dennery,” with women and those aged 15 to 49 most affected. One dengue-related death was recorded in 2025.
Six cases of leptospirosis were reported in 2025, representing a 63 percent decrease over the previous year, and no cases of malaria were recorded. However, leprosy cases increased markedly.
“Saint Lucia recorded 16 new cases of leprosy, which was eight times as many cases seen in the previous year, 2024,” Dr Belmar George said.
She explained that “the observed increase in cases was as a result of targeted active case finding carried out during skin camps aimed at detecting previously unidentified leprosy cases,” part of a national action plan launched in 2024.
Despite progress against several infectious diseases, the Chief Medical Officer warned that chronic non-communicable diseases remain the leading cause of death.
“Chronic non-communicable diseases continue to be a significant source of mortality in Saint Lucia, accounting for over 80 percent of all deaths,” she said, with cancers, stroke, heart disease, and diabetes remaining the top four causes for the past decade.
She also highlighted gender specific trends.
“Males are continuing to lose more of their potential benefit to society due to assault, land transport accidents and chronic lower respiratory diseases, which is COPD due to smoking,” while “females are losing more of their potential to society due to breast and cervical cancer in particular and perinatal conditions specific to newborns.”
Based on recent trends and behavioral risk factor data, the Ministry of Health is prioritizing prevention.
“Primary care preventative health strengthening remains a major focus for the Ministry of Health,” Dr Belmar George said, citing “low levels of health screening, increases in obesity, low fruit and vegetable intake, and limited physical activity among our population.”
She indicated that targeted interventions will be rolled out in 2026, with special focus on nutrition.
Operational challenges also affected health services during the year. Dr Belmar George noted that “health facility closures and diversions for care due to environmental air quality issues were reduced,” but significant maintenance issues persisted, particularly at the Vieux Fort Wellness Centre.
“Mold infestation was a major issue in several facilities, requiring significant resources for remediation at 14 wellness centers, including the Gros Islet Polyclinic, the Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic, and the Soufriere Hospital.”
Health officials say the 2025 data provide a clear roadmap for future policy, balancing gains in disease control with urgent action on chronic illness prevention and health system resilience.
The minister stressed that while schools and authorities play a role in protecting children, responsibility for monitoring online activity must begin at home, particularly in an era where social media platforms are easily accessible to young users.
“You must be monitoring what your children are doing. I’ve seen so many videos, and I’ve been wondering why is that child is already on TikTok? I’ve asked those questions. But then again, it’s about supervision,” Casimir said.
He made it clear that such supervision cannot be outsourced to the state or educators once children leave the school compound.
“The supervision cannot be that of the minister. It cannot be that of the teacher when the child is at home. It has to be that of the parent, the guardian, or other individuals tasked with that responsibility,” Casimir stated.
The education minister encouraged parents to take a more hands-on approach with their children’s devices, including phones and tablets.
“I would encourage people to pay more attention to what children do on their tablets, on their phones. You have every right to pull it from them, not just as a form of punishment, but to really get a gauge for what they are doing,” he said.
Casimir acknowledged that social media plays a complex role in modern society, particularly for young people.
“I think at the end of the day, social media is a gift and a curse,” he explained. “A gift in the sense that if you use it properly, you can advance yourself quicker as an individual who is using it than an individual who is not using it.”
However, he emphasised the importance of balance and clear guidance. According to Casimir, parents and institutions must actively demonstrate that harmful behaviour online will not be tolerated.
“The key here is the balanced approach and showing that cyberbullying is something that you have all the legislation for and showing that it’s something that you discourage as a parent, as a teacher, as an institution,” he said.
At the same time, the minister pointed out that social media can be a positive tool when used responsibly. “You can connect with the right people on social media, you can use social media to learn things,” he added.
The ministry’s warning comes amid growing concern about children’s exposure to inappropriate online trends, with officials urging families to take immediate and active steps to safeguard minors in the digital space.
The meeting brought together furniture manufacturers to discuss sector-specific challenges, opportunities for growth, and the importance of organisation within the industry.
Dr Hilaire highlighted the absence of a formal body representing furniture makers and encouraged renewed efforts to establish an association.
“Furniture manufacturers do not have an Association existing right now. There used to be one historically; I think many Saint Lucians can remember the days of Russell’s and Bryce and Morrill’s furniture,” Hilaire said.
He explained that discussions centred on “continuing their progress towards forming an association” and increasing public awareness of the quality produced locally.
According to the commerce minister, local manufacturers possess “tremendous quality” and should be better positioned to showcase their products to the domestic market. He noted that manufacturers must be able “to explain and to demonstrate that they can meet the demands locally.”
Hilaire also encouraged broader participation in the sector, particularly among young people, pointing to the changing nature of design and production.
“The whole landscape is changing. With the use of technology, the design of furniture, for example, young people can be more creative in designing furniture pieces,” he said.
He added that aspiring designers do not necessarily need to be manufacturers themselves, as collaboration between designers and producers could open new avenues for growth.
“I really want to start encouraging young people to get more into the creative space, the designing space, the use of AI, and the use of social media to get into that space,” Hilaire stated, expressing optimism about future opportunities within the sector.
Manufacturers also outlined the practical challenges they face. Obadiah Roserie of Furniture City pointed to the high cost of inputs as a major concern.
“One of the challenges is the cost of raw materials. The ministry promised to put things in place so that, in time, we could get a break on that,” he said.
Roseries also highlighted the need for modernisation, including access to computerised equipment and training.
“We also have challenges with modernisation of our facilities, getting computerised equipment, training with automated and CAD software,” he explained.
Despite these hurdles, Roserie expressed confidence in the way forward, noting that priority would be given to organizations within the industry.
“In time, we’ll take care of it one after the other, but we’ll do what’s most required right now, which is the formation of the association, and then we’ll take each thing one step at a time.”
The consultations form part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen local industries, encourage innovation, and create a more supportive environment for doing business in Saint Lucia.
Prime Minister and Minister for National Security, Philip J Pierre, used the occasion to publicly commend officers and staff of the department for their dedication and contribution to national development, noting that customs operations remain central to Saint Lucia’s economic performance and security framework.
“I extend the gratitude of the government and people of Saint Lucia for your hard work, dedication, and commitment in facilitating trade and protecting our borders,” Pierre said.
He emphasised that the observance serves as a reminder to the wider society of the department’s importance, adding that it plays a key role in “maintaining an environment that promotes international trade and border security, which contributes to our nation’s economic growth and prosperity.”
The prime minister also praised the department’s vigilance in protecting revenue streams and curbing criminal activity that threatens the country’s stability.
“I commend you for your vigilance and dedication to duty as you work tirelessly to combat illicit activities and revenue evasion, which undermine our economy and national security,” he stated.
Highlighting the round-the-clock nature of the department’s work, Pierre underscored the importance of border protection in a small island state.
“We are extremely thankful to Customs for protecting our nation day and night from the entry of illicit goods, weapons, and people,” he said, warning that strong border control is essential to national safety.
“We are reminded that no country is safe if they do not have a strong and secure border,” the prime minister added.
International Customs Day is observed annually to recognise customs administrations worldwide for their role in enabling legitimate trade while enforcing laws that protect citizens and economies. In Saint Lucia, the Customs and Excise Department remains a major contributor to government revenue and a key pillar of national security.
Community Dermatologist at the Ministry of Health, Dr Keturah Edwin-Tobias, explained that leprosy is a long-term illness that can affect several parts of the body.
“Leprosy is a chronic condition which affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tracts, and eyes,” she said.
Despite its historical reputation, Dr Edwin-Tobias stressed that advances in medicine have transformed the outlook for those diagnosed.
“Leprosy is no longer the frightening illness it once was. Thanks to modern medicine, it is curable. Treatment is free, effective, and accessible,” she noted, encouraging individuals to seek care early.
“Simply visit your nearest dermatology clinic at a nearby wellness center for assessment.”
According to the community dermatologist, the greatest obstacle in addressing the disease is not medical, but social.
“The true challenge is not the disease itself, but the stigma endured by those affected,” she said. “Stigma silences those who need help. Stigma isolates families and communities. Stigma inflicts pain long after the illness has been cured.”
Dr Edwin-Tobias added that misconceptions continue to fuel fear and discrimination.
“Stigma persists because many believe leprosy is highly contagious, incurable,” she said, emphasising that these beliefs are inaccurate.
Reiterating the call for understanding and empathy, she reminded the public that recovery begins with early identification.
“Leprosy is curable. Show compassion. Welcome and support those affected,” she urged. “Remember, the first step towards a cure is diagnosis.”
She also outlined some of the warning signs that should prompt a medical visit.
“If you notice a pale spot with decreased sensation, lumps or bumps on the face, ears or body, or repeated burns and ulcers on the hands and feet, please visit your nearest dermatology clinic for a free assessment,” Dr Edwin-Tobias advised.
Health officials say World Leprosy Day serves as a timely reminder that eliminating the disease goes hand in hand with eliminating stigma, ensuring that no one is afraid to seek the care they need.
Marked by music, readings, and solemn tributes, the ceremony served as both an act of remembrance and a call to inspire future generations.
The event forms part of the wider Nobel Laureate Festival observances and continues a long-standing tradition of celebrating the enduring contributions of the island’s most distinguished sons.
Attendees reflected not only on the individual achievements of the laureates but also on the broader impact of their work on national identity, education, and cultural confidence.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Director of Studies at the School of Arts, Management and Humanities at the Edna Manley College in Jamaica, Dr Anthea Octave, emphasised that the legacies of Sir Arthur and Sir Derek extend far beyond personal honours.
“The legacy we honour is not merely individual accolades or personal achievements. The true legacy is in the pathways created so those who come after may reach further, higher,” she said.
Dr Octave noted that while the two Nobel Laureates are central to the festival, they represent something larger.
“While these two Nobel laureates are those we celebrate with this festival, they are only the starting points of the legacy which this year’s theme exhorts us to honour,” she added.
Chair of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College Nobel Laureate Festival Committee, Tracy Pilgrim-George, underscored the importance of the annual ceremony in keeping their memory alive within the national consciousness.
“So every year we have this activity in order to honour our Nobel laureates, to keep them in the forefront of our minds,” she explained.
Pilgrim-George stressed that remembrance remains essential, even decades after their global recognition.
“Because even if we leave them to rest, they are still a significant part of our culture, of our history, and we want to keep their memory alive,” she said.
As wreaths were laid in quiet tribute, the ceremony reaffirmed the lasting influence of Sir Arthur Lewis and Sir Derek Walcott, not only as Nobel Laureates, but as enduring symbols of excellence, intellect, and possibility for Saint Lucia and the wider world.
The relay will begin in Castries East on January 28th,, setting the tone for what organisers describe as more than a celebratory road event, but a meaningful national exercise rooted in history, identity, and recognition of everyday Saint Lucians.
Master of Ceremonies Ezi Hall underscored the deeper purpose of the relay, reminding participants and spectators alike that its significance goes beyond festivity.
“What makes an event truly national?” Hall asked. He stressed that the Baton Relay is “not just a party on the road. It’s celebration, but we need to understand really and truly what we are celebrating. We are celebrating our Saint Lucians; we are celebrating our unsung heroes.”
As the relay makes its way through communities, authorities are urging the public to cooperate with traffic management measures to ensure safety and smooth movement. Sergeant Lester Broomes of the Department of Road Safety and Traffic Management appealed for patience and planning.
“We are asking the motoring and pedestrian public to seek alternative routes to your destination where possible; allow travel time when transversing the relay route or areas likely to be impacted by the traffic management changes,” he said.
He also encouraged carpooling and advised that details on routes and schedules can be accessed via the government website.
Castries East, the starting point of the relay, has embraced the moment with enthusiasm and careful preparation. Deputy Mayor of Castries, Felice Duplessis, said the constituency was ready to showcase its best.
“Castries East has answered the call with meticulous planning, thoughtful organisation, and creative expression. Every facet and asset in our community will gleam in the spotlight, and it is with this great pride and jubilation that we proudly declare that we shall go and do our best,” she explained.
Castries Central MP Richard Frederick reflected on the origins and enduring impact of the Baton Relay, describing it as a unifying force for the nation.
He explained that the initiative was created to “fill that vacuum of knowledge that we are unaware of, bring it out and bring it to the larger population.”
Frederick added, “I can say this without fear of contradiction that the baton really is, it stands at number one and it is second to none in so far as bringing Saint Lucians together, whether at home or abroad. Everybody cannot carry the baton, but everybody can participate.”
The National Independence Baton Relay is expected to traverse the island over the next several days, blending music, culture, and community pride, while reminding Saint Lucians of their shared journey and the legacy that continues to shape the nation ahead of Independence Day.
