Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 07, 2026 (SKNIS): The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is taking careful, people-centred steps to balance development and livelihoods, as efforts continue to transition agricultural activity from lands designated for housing.

Speaking in Parliament on March 31, the Honourable Senator, Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, emphasised that the process is being handled with compassion and fairness, ensuring that farmers are not displaced without support, while also respecting the rights of hundreds of citizens awaiting access to their land.

“Since July 2025, the ministry, through its standard procedures, has engaged farmers on the need to relocate in instances they were occupying lands for sustainable development,” Minister Clarke stated.

Across key areas such as Racecourse in Newton Ground, Cabbage Tree in Cayon, and Lemon Hill in Molineaux, the government has worked directly with farmers to find workable solutions, including relocation options and agricultural support. In one instance, land has already been identified to accommodate a farmer being transitioned, ensuring continuity of livelihood.

At the same time, the initiative is unlocking long-delayed opportunities for families who have already invested in land ownership and are waiting to begin building their homes.

“We are engaging the farmers to ensure we are not disrupting their livelihoods, but we are also allowing the almost 400 plus persons who have paid for their land… to move on to be homeowners,” Minister Clarke added.

Dr. Clarke said that the collaborative effort between the Ministry of Sustainable Development and the Ministry of Agriculture reflects a broader commitment to fairness, ensuring that no one is left behind as the Federation advances its development agenda.

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