2019 National Best Village Competition Receives Both Private and Public Sector Support

Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 27, 2019 (St. Kitts Tourism Authority): The Ministry of Tourism handed over 400 plants to 33 groups that are participating in the 2019 National Best Village Competition during a handing-over ceremony at the St. Kitts Eco- Park on Wednesday 25th September, 2019.

The National Best Village Competition is part of an ongoing initiative by the government to stimulate community participation in tourism.

Since the commencement of the competition, starter tool kits and 140 plants were presented to the participating groups by private sector companies, the Department of Agriculture and the Ministry of Tourism.

Minister of Tourism, The Hon. Lindsay F.P. Grant, stated that the outpour in support from both the private and public sectors have given competitors the opportunity to become more creative with their beautification ideas.

“The aim of the Ministry of Tourism is to rebuild our communities by bringing back a sense of pride and togetherness among each community member through innovative and inspiring projects,” Minister Grant said. “Beautification competitions allow members to come together collectively not only to share ideas but to also work together towards a sustainable cause, which will not only enhance the villages, but improve the overall tourism product around the island.” Minister Grant said.

Approximately 400 plants were propagated through partnerships with the St. Kitts Eco-Park and the Department of Agriculture. The additional plants will help the participating groups to beautify the chosen green spaces within their various communities, in preparation for the second round of judging for the competition which will be held on Wednesday 2nd October, 2019.

Participants will be judged based on their plant selections, sustainability and environmentally- friendly nature of their green spaces.

Categories for the competition are: Best Sustainability Programme, Best Clean & Green Area, Best Vegetable Home Garden, Best Ornamental Home Garden and Best Village Grand Parent.

The final round of judging will be completed in November and capped off with winners announced and prizes awarded during activities for Tourism Awareness Month.