Sam Condor Appointed Chair of National Productivity Council; Governor-General Announces Additional Appointments.

The Genesis of the National Productivity Council: A St. Kitts and Nevis Initiative

On July 8, 2025, a pivotal moment in the economic history of St. Kitts and Nevis unfolded at Government House in Basseterre. Her Excellency, the Governor-General Dame Marcella Liburd, presided over the official inauguration of the National Productivity Council, a body entrusted with the critical mission of enhancing the nation’s productivity landscape. Eight distinguished individuals, representing a cross-section of expertise from the public and private sectors, were sworn in, marking the commencement of this significant undertaking. Mr. Sam Condor was appointed as Chairperson, leading a team comprising Mr. Jeffrey Berry, Mr. Irvine Daniel, Ms. Farida Hobson, Mr. Kevin Barrett, Mr. Kevion Hodge-Huggins, Mr. Mark Wilkin, and Ms. Deshai Dore. The Honourable Marsha Henderson, Minister of Labour, graced the occasion, emphasizing the Council’s crucial role in shaping a more resilient and productive future for the twin-island nation.

The Council’s Mandate: Navigating a Dynamic Global Economy

The National Productivity Council’s establishment reflects the Federation’s proactive approach to addressing the challenges and harnessing the opportunities presented by a rapidly evolving global economic landscape. The Council’s mandate encompasses a comprehensive range of responsibilities, aimed at diagnosing and resolving the core issues impacting national productivity. This involves meticulous analysis of existing economic conditions, formulating evidence-based policy recommendations, and designing targeted training programs to elevate workforce skills, streamline operational efficiency, and bolster overall economic output. The Council is tasked with identifying bottlenecks, fostering innovation, and ensuring the nation remains competitive on the world stage.

Strategic Importance of the Council: Driving Sustainable Economic Growth

The Council’s work will be instrumental in propelling sustainable economic growth for St. Kitts and Nevis. By focusing on productivity enhancement, the Council aims to create a more robust and competitive economy, capable of weathering global economic fluctuations and ensuring long-term prosperity. The Council’s diverse composition, drawing expertise from both public and private sectors, positions it uniquely to address the complex interplay of factors influencing productivity. This collaborative approach aims to maximize the impact of policy interventions and ensure their alignment with the specific needs of the nation’s economy.

The Council’s Multifaceted Approach: Addressing Productivity Challenges

The National Productivity Council’s approach will be multifaceted, tackling productivity challenges from various angles. This includes analyzing macroeconomic indicators, evaluating labor market dynamics, assessing the impact of technological advancements, and examining the regulatory environment. By taking a holistic view, the Council seeks to identify the root causes of productivity gaps and develop targeted solutions. The Council’s emphasis on data-driven policy recommendations underscores its commitment to evidence-based decision-making and ensuring that interventions are effective and sustainable.

Training Programs and Workforce Development: Investing in Human Capital

A key component of the Council’s strategy is the development and implementation of tailored training programs designed to upskill the workforce and equip individuals with the competencies needed to thrive in a dynamic economic environment. These programs will focus on enhancing both technical and soft skills, promoting a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. By investing in human capital, the Council aims to empower the workforce to contribute meaningfully to national productivity gains and create a more skilled and adaptable labor force.

The Path to Inclusive and Sustained Prosperity: Steering National Economic Growth

The National Productivity Council’s ultimate goal is to steer St. Kitts and Nevis towards a future of inclusive and sustained prosperity. By addressing the root causes of productivity challenges and implementing effective strategies for improvement, the Council aims to create an environment where businesses can flourish, innovation thrives, and citizens benefit from increased economic opportunities. The Council’s work will be crucial in driving sustainable economic growth, enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness, and ensuring a brighter economic future for all citizens. The Council’s establishment signals a strong commitment from the government to prioritize productivity as a key driver of national development and prosperity.