Government Of Saint Lucia

In the headlines: The One Laptop Per Child Initiative receives support from the Republic of Azerbaijan, and; Saint Lucia is taking proactive steps to strengthen its national preparedness for future health emergencies with a three-day workshop. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The 2025-2026 Saint Lucia cruise season is projected to register a 14% increase in passengers over last year's numbers and government increases support for registered private preschools and parents. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Government ensures safety of Saint Lucian students as Hurricane Melissa hits Jamaica, and; the celebration of the Kweol language continues as the FRC warns Fred Lang Kweol. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

A renewed national drive toward sustainable food production and healthier communities took centre stage as stakeholders from across Saint Lucia united to chart the next phase of the island's Food Systems Transformation Pathway. The high-level dialogue, held on October 23, 2025, at the Bay Gardens Resort, Rodney Bay, served as a powerful platform to accelerate Saint Lucia's transition toward a more resilient, inclusive, and nutrition-secure food system. Hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development in collaboration with the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean the dialogue brought together key national stakeholders, farmers, fisherfolk, policymakers, youth, women's organizations, civil society, and international development partners to validate and advance Saint Lucia's National Food Systems Transformation Pathway. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) framework, which seeks to reimagine global food systems in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Health professionals and key national partners such as the National Emergency and Management Organization, Customs & Excise Department and the Saint Lucia Fire Service came together in a three-day Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan Development Workshop from October 21st to 23rd at the Harbor Club Hotel. The workshop which was hosted by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) aimed at developing a road map for coordinated national action which will ensure Saint Lucia's preparedness and response to future health emergencies. At the end of the workshop, a comprehensive plan would be created which would enhance Saint Lucia's ability to detect, respond to, and recover from pandemics, particularly those caused by respiratory diseases.

Health Region 4 comprising the communities of Micoud, Mon Repos, Ti-Rocher Micoud and Desruisseaux recently held a walk in the community of Micoud with the aim of raising awareness of breast cancer and showing support to breast cancer survivors and fighters. The walk started at the Micoud Wellness Centre, through the community to the Verge Point and back to the wellness centre. Participants benefited from an exercise and physical activity session, health screening and breast examinations for women. The Ministry of Health encouraged people in the various communities to visit the Community Wellness Centre and get screened for breast cancer. 

In the headlines: The Cultural Development Foundation launches a new performance stage, and; the Prime Minister addresses a high-level meeting of the regional security system. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Prime Minister Pierre upholds CARICOM's decision to maintain the Caribbean as a zone of peace And; Belle Vue and Babonneau prepare to hold the 2025 Jounen Kweyol celebrations. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Primary students cultivate early interest in agriculture through innovative competition and new self-service kiosks installed at Saint Lucia's airports to ease congestion and boost efficiency. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia announces plans to increase funding for the Youth Economy Agency, and; Saint Lucia hosts an Electric Vehicle Trade Expo. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Prime Minister Pierre has announced a Pathway to Inclusion Initiative, and; the Choiselle Arts and Crafts Centre officially opens. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

As Saint Lucians across the island embrace the vibrant spirit of Jounen Kwéyòl, the Department of Fisheries is reminding the public of the importance of protecting marine resources while enjoying traditional seafood delicacies. According to Fisheries Biologist, Ms. Yvonne Edwin, several fisheries remain open during this time, including the lobster and sea turtle fisheries, as well as conch (lubby), which is open year-round. However, these are all subject to strict regulations to ensure sustainability and conservation. The Department is also reminding the public that illegal methods of harvesting, such as the use of poisonous substances in rivers to capture crayfish, pose serious risks to human health and the environment. Consumers are encouraged to buy fresh prawns and crayfish only from licensed aquaculture farmers.

As Saint Lucia prepares to celebrate Jounen Kwéyòl, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs is reminding food vendors and patrons to uphold proper food safety standards throughout the festivities. To prevent food-borne illnesses, vendors are urged to practice proper hygiene, maintain safe food temperatures, and ensure clean preparation areas. Patrons are also encouraged to purchase food only from vendors who demonstrate good sanitary practices. The Ministry continues to monitor food safety and support training for food handlers to protect public health during this cultural celebration.

A week-long consultative mission undertaken by the OECS Skills and Innovation Project (SKIP) has provided fresh insight on how Saint Lucia can refine its national innovation ecosystem and strengthen ties between education, entrepreneurship, and industry.

Since its introduction in 2009, the Community After School Programme (CASP) has grown from just three pilot communities to a comprehensive national initiative. Now fully present in every district, this expansion marks a historic milestone in strengthening social inclusion and ensuring that children in every community have access to structured after-school learning, mentorship, academic, creative arts, music, theatre, sports, and life skills support. In addition to the nationwide rollout, CASP centres have been relocated to new venues in Anse la Raye and Micoud to better serve the needs of those communities. The programme has also welcomed Bocage as the newest addition, bringing much-needed support to children and families in the area.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia prepares for increased vulnerability to the possible importation and spread of infectious diseases via tourism and; the Ministry of Health observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Minister for Persons with Disabilities emphasizes the critical need for mental and emotional support for individuals who have undergone amputations and; Caribbean nations, advanced regional integration For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Hundreds of home care workers transition to permanent employee status and; Saint Lucia takes a major step towards establishing an artificial limb center. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Police Welfare Association and the government sign a collective agreement and; the Ministry of Health outlines activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Police Commissioner observes one year in current position and discusses areas of success and; France and Saint Lucia strengthen bilateral security ties. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), has launched a joint initiative to strengthen Saint Lucia's mental health services through a five-day Training of Trainers Workshop. The program, which runs from October 13th to 17th, 2025, brings together mental health professionals and individuals with lived experiences to build national capacity, promote a rights-based approach to care, and enhance the delivery of compassionate, inclusive, and sustainable mental health services across the island.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs continues to advance access to quality eye care services with the recommencement of eye surgeries at the National Eye Clinic as of October 8, 2025. The State-of-the-Art National Eye Clinic, which became operational on December 2, 2024 represents the merger of the former Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic, once housed at the Castries Wellness Centre, and the Cuban Eye Clinic previously located at Victoria Hospital. Significant infrastructural upgrades were undertaken, including the redesign and retrofitting of the new facility, installation of enhanced lighting and air conditioning systems, and the procurement of advanced biomedical equipment and modern furniture to enhance patient comfort and service delivery. The clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art ophthalmic technology, including an ophthalmic surgical system for cataract and retina surgeries, a phaco-emulsifier, anaesthesia machine, eye surgical microscope, laser machines, sterilizing equipment, and patient monitors. The highly qualified team comprising three ophthalmologists, one optometrist, one medical internist, one biomedical engineer, five nurses, one pharmacist, and auxiliary staff provides comprehensive eye care services to approximately 60 to 70 patients daily. 

Annually on October 10th, the World Health Organization (WHO) commemorates World Mental Health Day with the aim of raising awareness about mental health priorities. The day also calls for greater investment and action to improve access and support to mental health care worldwide. The theme for this year's observance, set by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) is “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.” This global theme, emphasizes the critical need for robust mental health support during crises like natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies, highlighting the urgent need to ensure that mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) reaches those people affected.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs together with the rest of the world observes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and intensifies public health education to improve awareness among women of the importance of screening, the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to understand the importance of early detection and treatment. It is anticipated that with accurate information, more women would lead healthier lifestyles to prevent breast cancer, ensure regular screening and consult medical practitioners when breast cancer is first suspected, and before the cancer is advanced. Early diagnosis is important as it is linked to effective and timely cancer treatment that requires specialized cancer care. In Saint Lucia, healthy lifestyles, regular screening and early detection are key in improving the outcome of breast cancer diagnosis. The Ministry of Health has decided to place special focus on the most prevalent type of breast cancer in country and ensure that women, men who are at risk, adolescent girls and their families are empowered to perform regular breast screening and to access the health services within their communities. In order to encourage breast cancer screening, mammography services can be accessed through any of the Primary Healthcare facilities, that is Community Wellness Centres, Polyclinics and District Hospitals. Individuals will then be guided to the St. Jude Hospital and the Millennium Heights Medical Complex to get the mammogram done at NO COST. Also, mammogram vouchers funded by the Ministry of Health will continue to be provided at outreach activities undertaken in workplaces and communities.

The month of October is observed globally as a period to promote breast health and raise the platform of breast cancer prevention. This annual campaign aims at raising awareness and encouraging the adoption of healthy habits. In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is embarking on the following activities to raise awareness and show their support.

In the headlines: Thousands to benefit as public assistance and disability grant reviews commence and; ECTEL launches scholarship fund. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in collaboration with EU-CaN and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) hosted a two-day nutrition workshop with the focus on discussing and developing solutions for implementing policies to create sustainable, healthy school food environments. The discussion was undertaken with key stakeholders and implementers such as the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), UNICEF, school principals, public health professionals and nutrition officers. Some of the initiatives which have not reached full implementation and require collaboration and discussion includes the development of national guidelines for school meals, bans on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and the drafting of key policies related to school nutrition and feeding.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia has officially launched its first national strategy for the development of statistics and; Honorable Alva Baptiste made a compelling argument for reparations at the 2025 UN General Assembly. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The seventh round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 7) is now fully underway across Saint Lucia, reaching households from Micoud to Anse La Raye, Bocage, and beyond. Designed to capture critical data on the well-being of men, women, and children, the survey is one of the most comprehensive tools available to inform national policy and track progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The MICS was developed by UNICEF to provide governments with timely, reliable data to shape social policies. The household-based survey collects indicators on children, women and men's health, nutrition, education, protection, and broader living conditions, ensuring no one is left behind.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia Police caused massive breakthrough with illegal firearm seizure, and; Saint Lucia to benefit from Eco Youth Ventures Project. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Thousands of Saint Lucian families and children living with disabilities will now have their indispensable support system safeguarded through the upcoming biannual review of the Public Assistance Programme (PAP) and the Child Disability Grant, scheduled from September 29 to November 3, 2025. The review process plays a vital role in safeguarding the welfare of households across the island by keeping beneficiary records accurate and up to date. Failure to participate in the review could result in the suspension of funds and the invalidation of client cards, directly impacting the livelihood of vulnerable families.

The Ministry of Health calls for Healthier Drinking Choices In Observance of World No Alcohol Day

In the headlines: Aquaculture and Seamoss farmers are given hurricane safety guidelines and; Saint Lucia highlights local agriculture at the Dasheen Festival. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Residents of Odsan are now eligible to own the properties they have been occupying for decades and; a special mission under the OECS Skills and Innovation Project is set to boost job readiness in Saint Lucia. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

What began in 2017 as a simple call for young swimmers to share what they had has grown into one of Saint Lucia's most inspiring acts of generosity. The Lightning Aquatics Swim Club, through its annual Walk In My Shoes initiative, continues to equip less fortunate students with the tools they need to succeed in school. This year's drive brought together swimmers and their families who donated new and gently used school supplies, including textbooks passed on by graduates of the Club. The effort reflects the Club's enduring commitment to instilling empathy and social responsibility in its athletes.

TTM input sales under the Seven Crops Project

TREE CROP PROJECT MOU SIGNING CEREMONY

In the headlines: Saint Lucia has launched a climate fund unit to spare head Saint Lucia's climate resilience agenda and; 100 Saint Lucians will undergo training in cyber security. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

A week-long consultant mission hosted by the OECS Skills and Innovation Project (SKIP) in Saint Lucia has successfully gathered critical insights from students, educators, and workforce representatives, laying the groundwork for programs that will boost skills, innovation, and job readiness across the island.

In the headlines: The Minister for Crime Prevention calls for immediate strengthening of public safety measures and; Education officials and His Grace, Archbishop of Castries, Gabriel Malzaire holds discussions on key education matters. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: An uptick in violent crime has sparked calls for the creation of a national alliance in the fight against crime and; Saint Lucia has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and inclusive development at a high-level forum. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Department of Fisheries urges fishers to adhere to hurricane advisories and; a team is being assembled to represent Saint Lucia at Nigeria's renowned Lagos Fashion Week For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc