Government Of Saint Lucia

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) recently held a three-day seminar on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Prevention and Control at the Harbor Club Hotel in Rodney Bay where health practitioners from Saint Lucia participated. The seminar was open to ex-participants from the Caribbean region who participated in the JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Training which took place in Japan last year. The seminar provided participants with an opportunity to share and discuss their successes and challenges in advancing the action plan for the prevention and management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in their country. The Seminar on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Prevention and Control received support and participation from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

In the headlines: Prime Minister, Hon. Philip J. Pierre meets with CARICOM Heads of Government and; celebratory activities over the weekend bring the curtains down for Saint Lucia's 47th Independence Anniversary. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Universal Healthcare enters an important phase with stakeholder feedback on the proposed legislation and; the Prime Minister reaffirms due process in the selection of a police commissioner. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In a decisive move to curb mosquito-borne illnesses, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition, through its Environmental Health Division, mobilized residents and Environmental Health Officers in Au Leon, Dennery on Saturday, February 14, for a targeted community clean-up aimed at eliminating vector breeding sites and reducing public health risks.

In the headlines: Government of Saint Lucia opens the Gros Islet Police Divisional Headquarters and, a new emergency department at the Dr. Winston Parris Medical Complex forecasted for completion in 2026. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Prime Minister confirms loss of lives from an unspecified attack on a fishing vessel and the Bananes Bay project site to be handed over to Global Ports Holding.  For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Equity, Labour, Gender, Elderly Affairs, Social Justice and Consumer Welfare has underscored the significance of the recent strategic meeting between Minister Hon. Emma Hippolyte and members of the Labour Tribunal, describing the engagement as a pivotal step towards strengthening labour justice and improving service delivery to workers and employers across Saint Lucia. The high-level meeting, held on February 12, 2026 and attended by Labour Tribunal Chairperson Mrs. Petra Jeffery-Nelson, Tribunal members, and Permanent Secretary in the Department of Labour Mrs. Sheila Imbert, was deliberately structured as a working session focused on understanding operational challenges, case management constraints, and areas requiring institutional support.

In the headlines: The Caregivers programme to expand to meet growing demands and, the Minister of Health calls for a shift in behavior over rising deaths from non-communicable diseases. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Central Statistical Office (CSO) is strengthening public access to national statistics with the rollout of an upgraded Redatam platform, giving users dynamic, real-time access to census and survey microdata.

In the headlines: Teachers to receive life-saving first aid training and, the Ministry of Equity and Social Justice pledges support to vulnerable groups. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Contingency plans are advanced should the Cuban Scholarship Program end, and; the government refutes claims of increased water rates. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is closely monitoring the situation of the Nipah virus currently in India. As of January 13, 2026, two (2) cases of Nipah virus (NiV) have been confirmed in Kolkata, West Bengal State India. The risk of the Nipah virus to the Caribbean region is designated at low at this time. Saint Lucia is ensuring the level of preparedness to manage possible importation and outbreaks in country which includes the following: surveillance at the ports and health institutions; collaboration and consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Veterinary Department & communication and health education sessions with healthcare workers, tourism sector, education sector and the general public. The Ministry of Health is also focused on ensuring prevention and risk reduction by ensuring the enhancement of infection control measures at health institutions, early identification through testing capacity and isolation measures when necessary.

In the headlines: Brandy and Monica to headline the 2026 Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival's Ultimate Celebration and. Saint Lucia's Witness Protection Program to be strengthened in the next budget cycle. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Taiwanese Embassy has announced that Saint Lucia might receive as many as forty scholarships for academic study in Taiwan in the upcoming academic year. They have also promised to increase the number of subject areas offered to Saint Lucian students.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition informs the public, and in particularly residents served by the Grand Riviere, La Guerre, Ti Rocher (Micoud), Etangs, Fond St. Jacques, Jacmel, and La Croix Maingot Wellness Centres, that these facilities will be temporarily closed as of Monday February 16, 2026 to facilitate essential rehabilitation works under the SMART Initiative funded by the OECS Regional Health Project. These improvements are necessary to ensure that the centres reopen stronger, safer, and better equipped to serve their communities for years to come. The Ministry of Health acknowledges that the temporary closure of these facilities may cause some inconvenience to residents. We assure the public that arrangements have been made to ensure continued access to essential health services during the rehabilitation period. Details regarding service redirection and access points will be communicated in a subsequent public broadcast.

In the headlines: Parliament approves yet another tax amnesty and; Saint Lucia's creatives are honored at a recent prize-giving ceremony. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition in collaboration with Hand Help Inc. will be hosting the second Hand Surgery Mission in Saint Lucia from March 29th -April 2nd, 2026. The Mission will be held at the Millennium Heights Medical Complex and the St. Jude Hospital. Hand Help Inc. is a charitable organization that provides hand surgery care to children and adults around the globe for the last 25 years. The services that will be provided free of charge to the public, includes the management of the entire spectrum of hand and upper extremity pathologies in children and adults including soft tissue and bone injuries, congenital anomalies, nerve palsies, burns, elective surgeries for hand conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger fingers and carpometacarpal arthritis. Persons who would like to be seen, reviewed and treated by the Hand Help medical/surgical team should go to their nearest public health facility (Wellness Centre/ Polyclinic/ Community Hospital) during scheduled medical clinics for an initial assessment and registration from Monday February 9, 2026 to Friday March 6, 2026.

The successful conclusion of the BE-CLME+ Micronesia Challenge Twinning Initiative reinforces Saint Lucia's commitment to a people-centred Blue Economy by strengthening regional cooperation, shared learning, and practical solutions for fisheries management, food security, and climate resilience. The initiative brought together regional and international partners to exchange best practices in ocean governance, community-based fisheries management, and climate adaptation areas critical to Small Island Developing States facing escalating climate risks. Throughout the week-long engagement, participants experienced first-hand how Saint Lucia's Blue Economy agenda is directly linked to livelihoods, affordable protein, and national development, while also drawing lessons from Micronesia's customary tenure systems and long-standing community stewardship of marine resources. The twinning initiative aligns with Saint Lucia's national Blue Economy priorities by strengthening institutional capacity, promoting ecosystem-based management, and fostering transboundary cooperation. 

A high-level consultation meeting between the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Sustainable Development has reinforced strategic alignment and implementation readiness for the final phase of the Building Resilience for Adaptation to Climate Change and Climate Variability in Agriculture in Saint Lucia (BRACCC-VAS) Project. Held at the Tissue Culture Facility, the meeting focused on reviewing project work plans, confirming priority outputs, and ensuring that remaining activities are fully aligned with the project's intended outcomes which are strengthening farmer livelihoods, improving climate resilience, and enhancing food security. The engagement also sets the framework for intensified implementation as the project enters its final year. The consultation also highlighted key project pillars, including capacity building for climate adaptation, rainwater harvesting, advanced production systems, and the development of agri-parks aimed at scaling production, improving standards, and creating diversified income opportunities for farmers. 

National Schools Counsellors gathered recently for their annual week of activities. In this report we hear about the work of Schools Counsellors and how they impact the school population.

In the headlines: Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre commits resources to steering young men away from criminal activity and. police officers receive specialized training to respond to domestic violence. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Dental Services Unit within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition, in collaboration with ACADO St. Lucia Limited, recently held an oral health promotion and education activity at the St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Boys Infant School, aimed at improving oral hygiene practices among students at the early childhood level. The students were taught the importance of proper oral hygiene, including correct tooth-brushing techniques and the role of daily dental care in maintaining overall health. 

In the headlines: Saint Lucia calls for stronger regional collaboration and the 2026-2027 budget to make allocations for St.Jude's Hospital commissioning. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Kids Insight Medical Mission to provide free services for blinding eye conditions, and the Minister for Tourism provides an update on the disbursement of grant funding for creative economy initiatives. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Chief Medical Officer makes a statement following the passing of a 10-year-old at the Jacmel Wellness Center, and the Government of Saint Lucia seeks to reduce road traffic deaths following a spike in vehicular accidents. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is deeply saddened by the passing of a 10-year old student, at the Jacmel Wellness Centre on Thursday January 29, 2026. The Ministry of Health understands that this situation is heartbreaking and wants to express heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time. Following the recent incident at the health facility, we have immediately launched an internal investigation to understand the factors surrounding the level of care provided to the patient. Currently, due to confidentiality we cannot share more information on this patient. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition asks for your cooperation and understanding as we undertake a thorough review of this recent situation.

Litfest 2026 served as another inspiring occasion that turned the spotlight on the island's creatives. The annual literary festival is held in observance of Nobel Laureates month. This year's day-long event included a midday cultural and artistic showcase.

A volunteer team of pediatric eye specialists from the West Virginia Eye Institute, the Kids Insight Medical Mission is here on island to provide eye care relief to children and adults affected by preventable and treatable eye conditions. For over 20 years, the Kids Insight Medical Mission has been collaborating with the St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association to provide free screening, diagnosis and surgical services for blinding eye conditions. In preparation for the surgical phase of the mission, a screening clinic was held at the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association. During the clinic, patients were assessed and selected for surgical intervention based on medical need and eligibility.

In the headlines: Government plans to introduce tougher laws to stem the growing toll of road fatalities, and a new financial agreement will expand access to affordable housing. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia joins the world in observing Children's Mental Health Week from February 9th to 13th and takes this opportunity to strengthen national conversations on children's mental health. Children's Mental Health Week aims to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by children and adolescents, while promoting strategies to minimize and prevent these challenges. The theme for Children's Mental Health Week is “This Is My Place,” which focuses on nurturing a sense of belonging and emotional safety for children within their everyday environments, be it at home, school, or in the wider community.   The Ministry of Health is committed to identifying ways to improve the mental well-being among children and also to understand a deeper understanding of children's health. During the observance of Children's Mental Health Week, the ministry will conduct educational sessions at schools, dissemination of information to the public through the use of public service announcements, social media cards and brochures, to name a few.

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and Global Partners set strategic direction for the industry and; Development 101 to equip Gros Islet youth with essential skills. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia is strengthening its ability to plan for climate change through a new initiative that supports real-time data, citizen science, and education for smarter, more resilient decision-making.

For forty-five years, UNESCO's work in Saint Lucia has helped shape classrooms, protect culture, support science, and strengthen the way we communicate as a nation. Today, that legacy came into sharp focus; not as a celebration of the past, but as a conversation about the future. Under the theme “Pursuing Pathways for Partnership and Progress,” UNESCO convened a national stakeholder consultation aimed at redefining priorities and strengthening collaboration for the years ahead.

In the headlines: The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force welcomes a new cohort, and; farmers receive training in modern tillage practices. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia joins the world in observing World Cancer Day on February 4th every year. This observance is an opportunity for us to continue to raise awareness, improve education and drive much needed action to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. The theme for this year's World Cancer Day is “United by Unique,” which places focus on recognizing every individual as a unique person with a unique experience with cancer and highlights the need for a holistic and people - centred approach towards cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment. Information at the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition indicates in 2023, 248 lives were lost to cancer. During 2024, there were 388 new cases of cancer diagnosed. The top three cancers diagnosed during this period were Prostate, Breast and Cervical cancer respectively. Of the 388 new cases of cancer diagnosed in 2024, 102 deaths have occurred. In an effort to fight against cancer, the Ministry of Health has undertaken a number of initiatives, continues to strengthen access to quality health care within the various wellness centres and health institutions on the island, engaged the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and overseas hospitals to ensure affordable and consistent cancer diagnosis and treatment for cancer and ensure education and community engagement. 

Saint Lucia joins the world in observing World Cancer Day on February 4th every year. This observance is an opportunity for us to continue to raise awareness, improve education and drive much needed action to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. The theme for this year's World Cancer Day is “United by Unique,” which places focus on recognizing every individual as a unique person with a unique experience with cancer and highlights the need for a holistic and people - centred approach towards cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment. Information at the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition indicates in 2023, 248 lives were lost to cancer. During 2024, there were 388 new cases of cancer diagnosed. The top three cancers diagnosed during this period were Prostate, Breast and Cervical cancer respectively. Of the 388 new cases of cancer diagnosed in 2024, 102 deaths have occurred. In an effort to fight against cancer, the Ministry of Health has undertaken a number of initiatives, continues to strengthen access to quality health care within the various wellness centres and health institutions on the island, engaged the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and overseas hospitals to ensure affordable and consistent cancer diagnosis and treatment for cancer and ensure education and community engagement. 

Farmers in Choiseul are now better equipped to improve soil health, increase productivity, and strengthen resilience to climate impacts following a hands-on agricultural machinery training conducted under the Building Resilience for Adaptation to Climate Change and Climate Variability in Agriculture in Saint Lucia (BRACCCVAS) Project. The initiative delivered immediate, practical benefits by introducing farmers to appropriate technology while building local capacity for shared access and long-term sustainability. The training focused on demonstrating modern tillage equipment and strengthening farmers' understanding of how improved soil preparation directly supports crop growth, water retention, and nutrient uptake.

In the headlines: The Environmental Health Division hosts a cleanup campaign aimed at eliminating vector breeding sites and; Saint Lucia's Independence Calendar of Activities has been launched. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The National Independence Baton Relay launches, and; the Minister for Equity undertakes a familiarization tour of community organizations. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition will officially implement the Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) system on island, which will assist with the collection and investigation of reports regarding unusual health events from healthcare workers and the community in a timely manner. This system will help the ministry to be more proactive in detecting and responding to emerging health risks. Effective February 2nd, a community member can report a public health threat or unusual event by calling 311, from Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm. This service is free and all information will be kept confidential.

The Environmental Health Division of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has partnered with residents of Anse La Raye to conduct an intensive source reduction and community cleanup campaign aimed at eliminating mosquito and rodent breeding sites. This initiative was undertaken in response to growing concerns over an increase in mosquito and vector breeding sites identified throughout the community and forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce vector-borne disease risks and promote a healthier environment.  

In the headlines: Saint Lucia launches its 47th anniversary of independence, and renowned economist Sir Tim Besley explores how to make economic policies work. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Newly appointed Minister for Equity, Labour, Gender, Elderly Affairs, Social Justice and Consumer Welfare, Hon. Emma Hippolyte, today undertook official visits to Cornerstone Humanitarian Society and the Saint Lucia Crisis Centre, as part of a broader familiarization and sensitization exercise across her expanded ministerial portfolio. The visits form part of the Minister's ongoing effort to gain a comprehensive, ground-level understanding of the institutions, programmes, and services that now fall under the remit of the Ministry of Equity, with a view to strengthening coordination, improving service delivery, and fostering seamless synergies across the social protection sector.

At a time when education systems across the region are being called to adapt, innovate, and respond to rapidly changing global realities, Saint Lucia's education leadership is taking a proactive step forward. Today, the Minister for Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation met with school principals from across the island, underscoring a renewed commitment to collaboration, accountability, and student-centred transformation.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia Jazz 2026 is reimagined as a lifestyle, and; the Saint Lucia Fire Service receives radiation sensing devices. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In 2025, the health system expanded Universal Health Coverage, improved health facilities, managed many health programs, health conditions ranging from infectious diseases, chronic non-communicable diseases and international, regional and local collaborations and Medical Missions. From the summary of the health status of the country, some of the health data analyzed are below: The Total Fertility rate (TFR) per woman of child bearing age is 1.06 compared to 1.54 in 2016.The Ministry of Health noted a continued reduction in COVID-19 cases from 3.4 per 10, 000 in 2024 to 2.0 per 10, 000 in 2025. A total of 276 cases of gastroenteritis were registered by the sentinel surveillance system. This represents an 85% decrease in cases from the previous year (2024). In 2025, 26 new cases of HIV were diagnosed. However, it represents a 2.6% decrease from 2024. The Ministry of Health noted a significant 91% decrease in Dengue Fever in 2025 as compared to 2024, where 432 cases were recorded.  Saint Lucia recorded 16 new cases of Leprosy which was eight times as many cases seen in the previous year 2024. The observed increase in cases was as a result of targeted active case finding, carried out during a skin camp aimed at detecting previously unidentified leprosy cases.  Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases continue to be a significant source of mortality in Saint Lucia accounting for over 80% of all deaths, with cancers, cerebrovascular disease/stroke, heart disease and Diabetes Mellitus dominating as the top 4 causes of death respectively for the last 10 years.  

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival boosts local talent, and; cruise tourism numbers trend toward a record-breaking year. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc