St. Kitts and Nevis has taken a significant step toward strengthening national health security through the Pandemic Fund under the “One Health” initiative.

Key stakeholders from across multiple sectors gathered at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort for a joint intersectoral implementation meeting, recognizing that protecting public health requires a unified approach linking human, animal, and environmental health systems.

Senior government officials, technical experts, and international partners discussed strategies to improve preparedness, coordination, and response to emerging health threats, including infectious diseases.

A One Health Steering Committee has now been officially established to guide national implementation, monitor progress, and ensure accountability. The committee will focus on cross-sector assessments, strengthening disease surveillance and early response systems, improving laboratory diagnostic capacity, and building a skilled and sustainable health and veterinary workforce.

The initiative forms part of a wider regional project to strengthen prevention and response to health threats in the Eastern Caribbean, supported by the Pandemic Fund in collaboration with PAHO/WHO, FAO, and the World Bank. Officials say the initiative demonstrates St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to a safer, healthier future through proactive investment and regional cooperation.