Construction of New JNF General Hospital to Begin Following Final Approvals

Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 12, 2025 (PMO) — The construction of the new Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital is officially set to begin construction following the completion and approval of all site plans, feasibility studies and the environmental and social impact study.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, joined by Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) H.E. Michael Lin Tao, Overseas Engineering & Construction Company (OECC) representatives, Ambassador Leon Natta Nelson, and senior officials from the Ministry of Health and JNF General Hospital, all visited the site today, December 12th, 2025, and revealed that construction of the new hospital will commence in short order.

In a symbolic handing over of the site to OECC, Prime Minister Drew stated that the handover represents the culmination of an extensive planning and consultation process and the transition into visible, on-the-ground development.

“We are now at the stage where construction can begin,” the Prime Minister said, noting that OECC has been granted access to the site and preparatory works will immediately follow.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the project has moved deliberately to ensure that all technical, environmental, and regulatory requirements were satisfied, given the complexity and importance of building a modern hospital. He reaffirmed that the new JNF General Hospital will be a climate-resilient, state-of-the-art facility designed to meet current and future healthcare needs while strengthening national preparedness and resilience.

Providing an update on what will occur next, Ambassador Leon Natta Nelson explained that the site handover follows the formal approval of the hospital’s designs and drawings, bringing the project to the end of its first major milestone.

In the immediate period ahead, land surveys will be finalized, and residents in the surrounding area will be engaged as changes are made to site access and traffic flow. These activities will prepare the location for sustained construction activity.

“The contractor will now be given permission to access the site and begin construction,” Ambassador Natta stated, adding that the process will also open opportunities for employment and local participation as work progresses.

Both Prime Minister Drew and Ambassador Natta expressed appreciation to the Republic of China (Taiwan) for its continued partnership with St. Kitts and Nevis, highlighting its critical role in supporting the development of modern healthcare infrastructure across the Federation.

The new JNF General Hospital is expected to significantly enhance healthcare delivery, generate economic activity during construction, and serve as a cornerstone of the government’s long-term investment in the health and well-being of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Construction activities are expected to begin at the Camps site in the coming days.