St. Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew as Minister of Health officially launched the Mental Health Service Systems Enhancement Project on Nov 27, 2024, at St. Kitts Marriott Resort. The Ministry of Health has made this decision with an aim to strengthen Mental Health Support across the Federation.
According to PM Drew this is a pivotal project by the Ministry of Health, which is being pursued in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF).
Under this project, the officials seek to expand mental health resources in order to advance mental health care. For this they need to build capacity for mental health professionals and enhance and improve the access to mental health services in St. Kitts and Nevis.
While sharing the glimpses from the launch of the Mental Health Service Systems Enhancement Project, Prime Minister Drew stated that the mental health is a fundamental human right and extended their heartfelt gratitude to Taiwan for its invaluable partnership in supporting this critical project.
Minister of Health Dr. Drew acknowledged the significance of project during the launch event at St. Kitts Marriott Resort and mentioned that the purpose of initiating this project is to normalise the mental health and wellness in the country, that will help in eliminating the stigma related to mental health disorders.
Dr. Drew further expressed that Mental Health is a fundamental human right. It is essential for personal development, as the mental health of the people is closely linked with productivity. It is also essential for socio-economic development of the country as well.
He added that by implementing this project, their intention is to reduce the gaps in prevention, screening, early detection and treatment of mental health disorders.
Additionally, PM Drew noted that it is the priority of the St. Kitts and Nevis to deliver quality mental health services. He said that by implementing this project the administration will be able to automatically increase the allocation of funds to mental health service delivery.
He highlighted that they are committed to gradually increase the proportion of the annual health budget allocated to the mental health services. He mentioned that the federation will also receive benefits from the new psychiatric unit with the buildout of the new hospital.
PM Drew appreciated the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for its partnership and investment in the overall wellbeing of citizens and residents. He emphasised that the project symbolizes the enduring of friendship and fruitful collaborations between both nations.
Furthermore, the Mental Health Service Systems Enhancement Project is anticipated to run for a period of three years and as per the official plan it will conclude in August 2027.