Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, State of the Caribbean; 389 km², 110 000 residents (2019).Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which is located in the southern part of the Little Antilles, consists of the main island of Saint Vincent (344 km² ) and the northern part of the archipelago of Grenadines with small islands of between 1 and 18 km². The capital is Kingstown (12,900 residents, 2013).

Country facts

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines / Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Country abbreviation: VC
Area: 389 km²
Population (2019): 110,000 residents
Capital: Kingstown
Main language: English
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Elizabeth II (Queen)
Head of Government: Ralph Gonsalves
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 7,378
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 7,940
Currency unit: 1 East Caribbean dollar = 100 cents
Currency code: XCD
Country number (telephony): 1
Internet domain name: vc
Time difference compared to Sweden: −5
National Day: October 27 (Independence Day, 1979)

Nature

Land use: forest (36%), agricultural land (28%), other (36%)
Highest mountain: Soufrière (1,234 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 283 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.5%; birth rate 14 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (23%), 15-64 (68%), 65- (9%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 70 years, women 75 years
Infant mortality (2019): 15 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 100,000 residents
HDI (2017): 0.723 (place 99 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 52%
Most populous city (2013): Kingstown (12,900 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (7%), industry (17%), service (76%)
Export (2017): US $ 47 million
Main export products: agricultural products
Main exporting countries: Jordan, France, Barbados
Imports (2017): US $ 296 million
Main import products: food, machinery
Main importing countries: USA, Trinidad and Tobago, UK
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Location and Size

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a small island nation located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, part of the Windward Islands group in the Lesser Antilles. The country is made up of the island of Saint Vincent, which is the largest and most populous, and a chain of smaller islands and cays known as the Grenadines. The total land area of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is approximately 389 square kilometers (150 square miles), making it one of the smaller Caribbean nations.

Saint Vincent is located between Saint Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south. The Grenadines, a string of approximately 30 islands and cays, stretch southward toward Grenada. Only a few of these islands are inhabited, with the most notable being Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, and Union Island. The country’s capital and largest city, Kingstown, is located on the southwestern coast of Saint Vincent.

Topography and Natural Features

Saint Vincent is a volcanic island, with its highest peak, La Soufrière, a dormant stratovolcano rising 1,224 meters (4,049 feet) above sea level. The island is characterized by rugged mountains, steep valleys, and lush tropical forests. La Soufrière has erupted several times in history, most recently in 2021, and remains one of the country’s most prominent natural landmarks. The volcanic nature of the island gives rise to fertile soil, which supports agriculture in the region.

The Grenadines are composed mainly of smaller, volcanic islands and coral reefs. The islands are generally flatter than Saint Vincent and feature beautiful beaches, coves, and protected waters that are popular for sailing and diving. The coastline of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is highly indented, with numerous bays and harbors, making it a prime destination for maritime activities.

The country is also home to a number of rivers and waterfalls, the most notable being the Rabacca River and its associated riverbed, as well as the Dark View Falls and the Falls of Baleine. The rich biodiversity of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines includes a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world, including the Saint Vincent parrot, the national bird.

Climate of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Tropical Climate

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 31°C (88°F), with the warmest months generally being between May and October. The islands are cooled by the trade winds, which help to moderate the heat and bring mild, comfortable breezes year-round.

The wet season lasts from June to November, coinciding with the Atlantic hurricane season. During this time, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines experiences more frequent rainfall, especially in the mountainous regions of Saint Vincent. The dry season, from December to May, is characterized by less rain and generally sunny conditions, making it the peak season for tourism. The dry season also corresponds with the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to a surge in international visitors during this period.

The country is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, which occasionally impact Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. The island’s volcanic terrain and tropical climate also create conditions for frequent rainfall in certain areas, leading to occasional landslides and floods, particularly during the wet season.

People of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Population and Demographics

As of the most recent estimates, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a population of approximately 110,000 people, with the majority residing on the island of Saint Vincent. The population of the Grenadines is much smaller, and the islands are relatively sparsely populated, with a few islands being home to just a handful of residents. The capital, Kingstown, has a population of around 25,000 people and serves as the cultural, political, and economic center of the country.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a multicultural society, with the majority of its population being of African descent, the descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the islands during the colonial period. There are also smaller populations of people with East Indian, European, and mixed heritage, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the country over the centuries.

Language and Religion

English is the official language of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and it is used in government, education, and business. However, the local dialect, known as Vincentian Creole, is widely spoken by the population, particularly in informal settings. Creole is an Afro-Caribbean language with influences from African languages, French, and English, and it is an important part of the country’s cultural identity.

The majority of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ population is Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination, followed by various Protestant groups such as Anglicans, Methodists, and Pentecostals. Christianity was introduced to the island during European colonization, and it has played a central role in shaping the country’s cultural and social norms. Church attendance remains an important aspect of life for many Vincentians, and religious festivals, such as Christmas and Easter, are widely celebrated.

Health and Education

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has made significant strides in improving its healthcare system. Healthcare is provided through a network of public hospitals, clinics, and private medical facilities. The country has a relatively high life expectancy, and significant progress has been made in reducing infant mortality rates. However, like many small island nations, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines faces challenges in providing universal healthcare services to rural and remote areas, particularly on the smaller Grenadine islands.

Education is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 15. The country’s education system follows a British model, with primary and secondary education available, as well as opportunities for higher education. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College offers tertiary education, and many students also pursue studies abroad in universities in the Caribbean or further afield. Literacy rates are relatively high, and the government continues to invest in education as a means of promoting social and economic development.

Economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Key Industries

The economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and services. Agriculture has historically been the backbone of the economy, with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines known for its production of bananas, coconuts, and other tropical fruits and vegetables. However, the banana industry has faced challenges in recent years due to competition from other Caribbean countries and changes in European Union trade policies. The government has worked to diversify agriculture by promoting other crops, such as root vegetables, cocoa, and organic products.

Tourism is one of the most important sectors in the country’s economy, attracting visitors with its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and tropical climate. The Grenadines are particularly popular with tourists interested in sailing, diving, and eco-tourism. The country’s rich cultural heritage and natural landmarks, such as the La Soufrière volcano, also contribute to its appeal as a destination for international visitors.

The services sector has seen growth, with financial services, retail, and telecommunications becoming increasingly important to the economy. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a small but growing offshore financial industry, which provides services such as banking, insurance, and investment management. The government has worked to establish favorable business regulations to attract international investors and support the growth of the service economy.

Economic Challenges

Despite its natural beauty and growing tourism sector, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines faces several economic challenges. The country has a small domestic market and limited natural resources, making it dependent on imports for many goods. This reliance on imports contributes to the country’s trade imbalance and vulnerability to external economic shocks.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is also highly vulnerable to natural disasters, particularly hurricanes and volcanic eruptions, which can disrupt the economy and cause significant damage to infrastructure. The eruption of La Soufrière in 2021 underscored the risks posed by the island’s volcanic activity, which can impact both the agricultural and tourism sectors.

The government has implemented various measures to address these challenges, including efforts to diversify the economy, improve infrastructure, and encourage foreign investment. Efforts to modernize agriculture, promote sustainable development, and increase the resilience of the country to climate change are key priorities for future economic growth.

Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Political System

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a democratic republic with a parliamentary system of government. The country’s head of state is the President, who is elected by the people for a five-year term. However, executive power lies with the Prime Minister, who is the head of government. The Prime Minister is appointed by the President, typically the leader of the majority party in the House of Assembly, the country’s lower legislative body.

The legislative branch of the government is bicameral, consisting of the House of Assembly and the Senate. The House of Assembly has 15 elected members who serve five-year terms, while the Senate comprises 13 appointed members. The country’s legal system is based on English common law, with a judiciary that is independent of the executive and legislative branches.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of several international organizations, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and the United Nations. The country has maintained a relatively stable political environment since gaining independence, although political competition between the two main parties—the Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the New Democratic Party (NDP)—has been a feature of the nation’s political landscape.

Legal System

The legal system in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is based on English common law, and the country is a member of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, which serves as the highest court in the country. The court system is independent, with judges appointed on merit, and it plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice in the country.

The government has worked to modernize its legal framework, particularly in areas like human rights, property rights, and financial services. There are also efforts to streamline the legal process and ensure that the judicial system remains efficient and accessible to the public.

Culture of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Arts and Music

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its African, European, and indigenous roots. Music plays a central role in the country’s cultural life, with calypso, reggae, and soca being the most popular genres. The country is also known for its Carnival, which takes place annually in late June and is a colorful celebration of music, dance, and vibrant costumes. The event draws locals and tourists alike, with street parties, parades, and musical performances.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a growing arts scene, with local artists showcasing their work in galleries and public spaces. The country is also home to numerous cultural festivals and events that celebrate its diverse heritage, including theater performances, art exhibitions, and literary events. Visual arts such as painting, sculpture, and pottery are also important aspects of Saint Lucian culture, with local artists often drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the island.

Festivals and Traditions

In addition to Carnival, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines celebrates a variety of other cultural and religious festivals. The La Soufrière Volcano Festival is held to celebrate the volcanic nature of the island and its significance in the culture and economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This festival includes educational programs, hiking expeditions, and cultural performances.

The nation also celebrates Christmas, Easter, and other religious holidays with various traditions that reflect the Christian faith of the population. Festivals such as the Nine Mornings Festival in the lead-up to Christmas offer a glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted traditions, with local communities hosting early morning celebrations filled with music, dancing, and storytelling.

Cuisine

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines boasts a rich culinary tradition influenced by its African, European, and Caribbean heritage. Seafood is a staple of the island’s cuisine, with dishes such as fish and breadfruit, conch fritters, and lobster served in a variety of preparations. Local fruits, vegetables, and herbs play a significant role in the country’s food culture, with ingredients like cassava, yams, plantains, and tropical fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and guavas.

One of the most popular traditional dishes is “roast breadfruit with saltfish,” a dish that combines roasted breadfruit with salted cod, a legacy of the island’s colonial past. St. Vincentian cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with influences from the Caribbean and African diaspora shaping the country’s culinary traditions.

History of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Early History and European Colonization

The indigenous Carib people were the first known inhabitants of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, followed by the Arawaks. European colonization began in the late 15th century when the Spanish arrived, but the island remained relatively untouched by European settlement until the French established a presence in the 17th century. The British took control of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in 1763, and the islands remained under British rule for much of their history.

Slavery and Sugar Plantations

The economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was built on the back of African slaves brought to the island to work on sugar plantations. The slaves were subjected to harsh conditions, and uprisings were frequent. The country’s history of slavery and colonialism continues to shape its social, political, and cultural landscape today.

Independence

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines gained full independence from Britain on October 27, 1979, becoming a sovereign state within the Commonwealth. Since independence, the country has undergone significant political and economic changes, focusing on education, tourism, and agriculture to strengthen its economy. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has worked to overcome its historical challenges and become a stable and prosperous nation, while still grappling with economic vulnerability and the impacts of natural disasters.