Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis has called for a new era of cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, focusing on removing barriers to travel, trade, and investment. During his keynote address at the Royal African Society’s 125th Anniversary Flagship Business Event at the London Stock Exchange, he highlighted the importance of transforming historical and cultural connections into practical partnerships that benefit people, businesses, and investors across both regions.

• Strengthening Africa-Caribbean Mobility

Prime Minister Drew emphasized the need to improve movement between Africa and the Caribbean by reducing unnecessary travel restrictions. He highlighted Saint Kitts and Nevis’ decision to provide visa-free access for citizens of all African countries as a key step toward strengthening relations with the African continent.

He called for reciprocal visa-free travel between Africa and Caribbean nations and proposed the creation of a structured Africa-Caribbean mobility framework supported by cooperation, technology, and mutual trust.

• Building Stronger Trade and Investment Links

The Prime Minister stressed that closer relations between Africa and the Caribbean require more than historical ties; they require practical systems that support economic growth.

He identified several areas that need improvement, including:

• Direct air connections between regions
• Better maritime transportation
• More efficient customs procedures
• Modern payment systems to support cross-border business

He highlighted that entrepreneurs should be able to trade internationally without unnecessary financial and logistical challenges.

• CARICOM and AfCFTA Cooperation

Dr. Drew highlighted the importance of stronger cooperation between CARICOM (Caribbean Community) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He stated that closer engagement between the two regions could create new opportunities for:

• Businesses
• Entrepreneurs
• Investors
• Regional economic development

This cooperation could also expand market access and encourage greater economic integration.

• The Role of Infrastructure and Policy Coordination

The Prime Minister noted that achieving meaningful integration requires more than political commitment. It requires:

• Modern infrastructure
• Coordinated policies
• Institutional cooperation
• Strong partnerships between governments, financial institutions, and the private sector

These elements are essential to creating a seamless connection between Africa and the Caribbean.

• Impact on Future Economic Opportunities

By improving mobility, trade, and investment flows, the Africa-Caribbean partnership could unlock new opportunities for future generations.

The initiative aims to create a more connected environment where people, businesses, and investors can operate more easily across both regions.

Summary

Prime Minister Terrance Drew’s message focuses on strengthening Africa-Caribbean relations through greater connectivity and cooperation. Saint Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself as a leader in removing barriers by introducing visa-free access for African citizens and advocating for broader regional mobility.

The proposed approach aims to enhance trade, investment, and economic collaboration by improving transportation links, financial systems, and institutional partnerships between Africa and the Caribbean.