Saint Kitts and Nevis Facts

Saint Christopher and Nevis, also known as Saint Kitts and Nevis, State of the Caribbean; 269 ​​km², 52,000 residents (2019).Saint Christopher and Nevis, located in the Northern Minor Antilles, consist of the main island of Saint Christopher (168 km² ) and the smaller island of Nevis (93 km² ). The capital is Basseterre (13,300 residents, 2012).

Saint Kitts and Nevis Country Flag

Country facts

  • Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis / Saint Christopher and Nevis
  • Country abbreviation: CN
  • Area: 269 km²
  • Population (2019): 52,000 residents
  • Capital: Basseterre
  • Main language: English
  • State: Monarchy
  • Head of State: Elizabeth II (Queen)
  • Head of Government: Timothy Harris
  • Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 19,829
  • GNI per capita (2018): US $ 18,640
  • Currency unit: 1 East Caribbean dollar = 100 cents
  • Currency code: XCD
  • Country number (telephony): 1
  • Internet domain name: kn
  • Time difference compared to Sweden: −5
  • National Day: September 19 (Independence Day, 1983)

Nature

  • Land use: forest (17%), agricultural land (39%), other (44%)
  • Highest mountain: Mount Misery (1 156 m above sea level)

Population

  • Population density (2019): 193 residents per km²
  • Natural population growth (2019): 0.5%; birth rate 14 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
  • Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (20%), 15-64 (71%), 65- (9%)
  • Average life expectancy (2019): men 74 years, women 78 years
  • Infant mortality (2019): 8 per 1,000 live births
  • Population forecast 2050: 62,000 residents
  • HDI (2017): 0.778 (place 72 of 189)
  • Urbanization rate (2017): 31%
  • Most popular cities (2012): Basseterre (13,300 residents), Charlestown (2,300)

Business

  • Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (1%), industry (30%), service (69%)
  • Exports (2017): US $ 57 million
  • Main export product: machinery, food, electronics
  • Main exporting countries: USA, Poland, Turkey
  • Imports (2017): US $ 335 million
  • Main import products: machinery, manufacturing, food
  • Main importing countries: USA, Trinidad and Tobago, Cyprus
  • Railway network (2010): 50 km

Geography of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Location and Size

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a twin-island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, specifically in the Lesser Antilles, part of the eastern Caribbean islands. The country consists of two islands: Saint Kitts, the larger of the two, and Nevis, located just to the southeast. Saint Kitts and Nevis is one of the smallest countries in the world, covering an area of just 261 square kilometers (101 square miles), with Saint Kitts occupying about 168 square kilometers and Nevis 93 square kilometers.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is situated approximately 2,000 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, and about 300 kilometers east of Puerto Rico. To the north of Saint Kitts and Nevis lies the island of St. Barthélemy, while to the south, the country is bordered by the island of Montserrat.

Topography and Natural Features

The geography of Saint Kitts and Nevis is varied, characterized by mountainous terrain, lush rainforests, and pristine coastlines. Saint Kitts is dominated by volcanic mountains, with the highest peak, Mount Liamuiga, reaching an elevation of 1,156 meters (3,793 feet). This dormant volcano is located in the island’s central region, surrounded by lush rainforest. The island’s interior is mountainous, but the coastal areas are flat and suitable for agriculture, especially in the southern part of the island, where sugar plantations were historically established.

Nevis, which lies to the southeast of Saint Kitts, has its own volcanic peak, Nevis Peak, rising to 985 meters (3,232 feet). Nevis is smaller and less mountainous than Saint Kitts, but it still features lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and volcanic features. Both islands are surrounded by coral reefs, making them attractive destinations for divers and nature enthusiasts.

The islands’ natural beauty, including tropical rainforests, beaches, and volcanic mountains, attracts significant tourism, and many of their natural resources have contributed to the economy, particularly in agriculture and tourism.

Climate of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Tropical Climate

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and relatively high humidity. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to 30°C (86°F) during the hotter months. The warm weather is moderated by trade winds, which keep the islands comfortable throughout the year. These breezes are especially noticeable along the coastlines, where many of the islands’ tourist resorts are located.

The country does not experience extreme seasonal variations, but it does have a wet season and a dry season. The wet season lasts from June to November, coinciding with the Atlantic hurricane season. During this period, the islands may experience heavy rainfall, storms, and, occasionally, hurricanes, which can bring significant damage. However, the dry season, which runs from December to May, is generally sunny with minimal rainfall, making it a popular time for tourists to visit.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is also affected by its proximity to the Caribbean Sea, which provides an abundant supply of rainfall during the wet season, particularly in the mountainous regions of both islands. This climate fosters rich biodiversity, including tropical plants and a variety of wildlife.

People of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Population and Demographics

As of the most recent estimates, Saint Kitts and Nevis has a population of approximately 53,000 people, making it one of the smallest nations in the world by population. The majority of the population resides on the larger island of Saint Kitts, particularly in the capital, Basseterre, which serves as the country’s main economic and cultural center. The smaller island of Nevis has a population of around 12,000, with much of its population living in Charlestown, the island’s capital.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a relatively young population, with a median age in the early 30s. The country’s population is diverse, with the majority of residents being of African descent, a result of the country’s colonial past in the slave trade. There is also a significant minority of people of East Indian, European, and mixed heritage, with cultural influences from a variety of ethnic groups.

Language and Religion

English is the official language of Saint Kitts and Nevis, as it is a former British colony. Most residents speak English fluently, though the local dialect, known as Kittitian-Nevisian, is also widely used, especially in rural areas. This creole language incorporates African, French, and English influences, reflecting the island’s colonial history and its African roots.

The predominant religion in Saint Kitts and Nevis is Christianity, with the majority of the population identifying as Protestant. The Anglican Church, a legacy of British colonialism, has a significant presence, but other Christian denominations such as Baptist, Methodist, and Pentecostal also have large followings. Roman Catholicism is practiced by a small percentage of the population. Religious observance remains an important part of life for many citizens, with churches playing a central role in the community.

Education and Health

Education in Saint Kitts and Nevis is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The education system is modeled after the British system, with primary and secondary schools followed by higher education opportunities. The University of the West Indies Open Campus, with facilities in Basseterre, offers tertiary education options, while students also have access to scholarships and exchange programs for studying abroad.

In terms of healthcare, Saint Kitts and Nevis provides universal healthcare to its citizens, funded largely by the government. The country has made significant strides in improving its healthcare system, with modern medical facilities available in both Saint Kitts and Nevis. The health system is primarily focused on primary healthcare, with specialized care provided through referrals to overseas hospitals for more complex medical procedures.

Economy of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Key Industries

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a small, open economy that relies heavily on agriculture, tourism, and services. Historically, the islands were known for their sugar industry, with sugar cane being the primary crop grown on the islands. However, the sugar industry has declined over the years, and the government has shifted its focus to diversification.

Tourism is a critical sector in the economy, with the islands attracting visitors for their natural beauty, beaches, and luxury resorts. The country has become known for its ecotourism, with activities such as hiking, bird watching, and water sports drawing tourists. The Nevis island offers visitors a more tranquil experience, with its natural hot springs, tropical wildlife, and hiking trails.

The financial services sector has also been growing, with Saint Kitts and Nevis attracting international businesses due to its favorable tax laws and financial regulations. The country has implemented a Citizenship by Investment Program, which offers individuals from other countries the opportunity to gain citizenship in exchange for significant financial investment, such as purchasing property or making a donation to national development projects.

Agriculture and Development

Agriculture, though no longer the dominant industry it once was, remains an important part of the economy. The production of crops such as sugar, bananas, coconuts, and citrus fruits continues to contribute to both domestic consumption and export markets. Sugar was historically the backbone of the country’s economy, but following the decline of the sugar industry, the country has worked to diversify its agricultural base, focusing more on vegetables and fruits for both local consumption and export.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has also been investing in infrastructure development, such as upgrading transportation networks, expanding ports, and improving telecommunication services. These developments aim to attract foreign investment and support the growth of the tourism and services sectors.

Economic Challenges

Despite the economic diversification efforts, Saint Kitts and Nevis faces challenges such as a small domestic market, reliance on imported goods, and vulnerability to natural disasters such as hurricanes and volcanic activity. The country’s small size means it has limited natural resources, making it dependent on trade, external investment, and international markets. Unemployment, while relatively low, is still a concern, particularly among the youth, and income inequality exists between the more urbanized Saint Kitts and rural Nevis.

The government has been working on addressing these challenges by promoting sustainable development and expanding opportunities in sectors like tourism and finance. In addition, Saint Kitts and Nevis has been working to combat the effects of climate change and improve its infrastructure to withstand natural disasters.

Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Political System

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a federal parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy. The country’s head of state is the British monarch, represented by a Governor-General, while the head of government is the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is elected by the members of the National Assembly, which is composed of 14 seats, with nine members elected from Saint Kitts and three from Nevis. The government operates within the framework of a parliamentary system, with elections held every five years.

The political system is based on the British system of governance, and the country has a multi-party system. The two main political parties in the country are the Saint Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) and the People’s Action Movement (PAM). The Governor-General plays a largely ceremonial role, with executive power vested in the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.

Legal System

Saint Kitts and Nevis follows a legal system based on English common law, and the judiciary is independent of the government. The highest court in the country is the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, which has a Court of Appeal and a High Court. The judicial system upholds the rule of law and ensures that justice is dispensed fairly. There is also a system of local magistrates who handle smaller civil and criminal cases.

The country has been making efforts to strengthen its legal and institutional frameworks, particularly in areas like financial regulation, environmental protection, and human rights.

Culture of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Arts and Music

The culture of Saint Kitts and Nevis is influenced by its African heritage, with significant contributions from European, Caribbean, and indigenous cultures. The people of Saint Kitts and Nevis celebrate a rich history of music, art, dance, and folklore, with a strong tradition of storytelling.

Music plays an essential role in the culture of Saint Kitts and Nevis, with genres such as calypso, soca, reggae, and steelpan music being particularly popular. The country’s carnival, known as “Sugar Mas,” is a major event that celebrates the island’s rich musical and cultural heritage, featuring vibrant parades, costumes, and music.

The arts, including visual arts and theater, are also highly valued, with local artists often reflecting the history and landscapes of the islands in their works. The Nevisian heritage and the colonial period have greatly influenced art in Saint Kitts and Nevis, with traditional crafts such as basket weaving and pottery still being practiced.

Festivals and Traditions

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a variety of cultural festivals and celebrations, many of which are tied to the agricultural and religious calendar. The most significant event is the annual carnival, Sugar Mas, which is held during the Christmas season and includes music, dancing, and pageantry. The carnival is a time of national pride and celebration, and it brings together people from all backgrounds.

Other cultural festivals include the St. Kitts Music Festival, the Nevis Culturama Festival, and various smaller religious and community celebrations throughout the year. These events celebrate the island’s diverse traditions, from African heritage to colonial influences, and are an important part of the national identity.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Saint Kitts and Nevis is influenced by African, Caribbean, and European traditions, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Seafood is a staple in the diet, including dishes such as fish cakes and conch. Local fruits such as mangoes, papayas, and guavas are often incorporated into meals, and rice and beans are common side dishes.

One of the most iconic foods in Saint Kitts and Nevis is “goat water,” a hearty stew made with goat meat and vegetables. Additionally, local specialties like “saltfish” and “roti” reflect the country’s Caribbean and Indian influences. The cuisine of Saint Kitts and Nevis is deeply tied to the country’s agricultural roots, with homegrown products taking center stage in traditional dishes.

History of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Early History and European Colonization

Saint Kitts and Nevis was originally inhabited by the Kalinago people, also known as the Caribs. The islands were first encountered by European explorers in the early 16th century, and they were subsequently colonized by the British in the 17th century. Saint Kitts, in particular, became one of the first British colonies in the Caribbean, and sugar plantations were established, using enslaved Africans to work the fields. This period of colonization saw the introduction of African culture and the beginning of slavery, which would shape the islands’ demographic and cultural makeup.

Slavery and Independence

Saint Kitts and Nevis was a slave society for much of the colonial era, with sugar being the primary export product. The abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834 marked the beginning of a new era, as former slaves worked as laborers on the plantations.

The islands gained full independence from Britain in 1983, becoming the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, with the country adopting a democratic form of government. Since independence, Saint Kitts and Nevis has developed a stable political system, gradually modernized its infrastructure, and worked towards creating a more diversified economy based on tourism and services.

Post-Independence and Modern Development

Since gaining independence, Saint Kitts and Nevis has made significant progress in building its infrastructure, improving education and healthcare, and becoming a key player in regional and international politics. The government has worked to diversify the economy, focusing on tourism and financial services, and has implemented various measures to ensure the sustainability of the country’s resources.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has become an attractive destination for international investment, particularly through its Citizenship by Investment Program, which has helped to strengthen the country’s economy. Despite its small size, the country continues to make strides towards further development and is often cited as a model of stability and growth in the Caribbean region.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Map

Saint Kitts and Nevis Map