Saint Kitts and Nevis is a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, located to the west of Antigua and Barbuda and north of Guadeloupe. It is part of the Leeward Islands in the West Indies and is known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich history.

Geography

Climate

Saint Kitts and Nevis have a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F). The islands experience a wet season from May to November, with the most rainfall occurring between June and August. The dry season extends from December to April, offering ideal conditions for tourism.

Fauna

The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis are home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, marine life, and reptiles. The surrounding waters teem with colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Land animals include monkeys, mongoose, and several species of lizards.

Longest Rivers

Saint Kitts and Nevis are relatively small islands, and as such, they do not have significant rivers. Most of the freshwater sources on the islands are small streams and creeks that flow from the mountains to the coast.

Highest Mountains

Mount Liamuiga, formerly known as Mount Misery, is the highest peak in Saint Kitts and Nevis. It is located on the island of Saint Kitts and rises to an elevation of 1,156 meters (3,792 feet) above sea level. Mount Nevis, on the island of Nevis, is the second-highest peak, reaching a height of 985 meters (3,232 feet).

History

Prehistory

The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis were originally inhabited by the Kalinago people, also known as the Caribs. They lived a semi-nomadic lifestyle, relying on fishing, hunting, and agriculture for sustenance. The islands were later encountered by European explorers, including Christopher Columbus, who arrived in the late 15th century.

Colonial Era

European colonization of Saint Kitts and Nevis began in the early 17th century when the islands were settled by the English and French. The indigenous Kalinago people were gradually displaced or exterminated through conflict and disease. The islands became important sugar-producing colonies, relying heavily on enslaved labor from Africa.

Independence

Saint Kitts and Nevis gained independence from Britain on September 19, 1983, becoming the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere. The country adopted a parliamentary democracy, with a Prime Minister as the head of government and a constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch as the ceremonial head of state.

Modern Age

Since gaining independence, Saint Kitts and Nevis have focused on economic diversification, reducing reliance on sugar production, and promoting tourism and financial services. The country has invested in infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, improving the standard of living for its citizens.

Demographics

Population

Saint Kitts and Nevis have a population of approximately 55,000 people, with the majority residing on the larger island of Saint Kitts. The population is predominantly of African descent, with smaller communities of European, Indian, and mixed-race heritage.

Ethnicity and Language

The majority of the population identifies as Afro-Caribbean, with English being the official language spoken by the majority of residents. There are also minority communities of Indo-Caribbean descent, who primarily speak Hindi or Bhojpuri.

Religion

Christianity is the dominant religion in Saint Kitts and Nevis, with the majority of the population adhering to various Protestant denominations, including Anglicanism, Methodism, and Pentecostalism. There are also small communities of Roman Catholics and other Christian sects.

Administrative Divisions and Population

Saint Kitts and Nevis is divided into 14 parishes, with each parish consisting of several smaller villages and settlements. The following is a list of Saint Kitts and Nevis’ administrative divisions along with their populations:

1. Christ Church Nichola Town Parish – Population: 3,500
2. Saint Anne Sandy Point Parish – Population: 5,000
3. Saint George Basseterre Parish – Population: 20,000
4. Saint George Gingerland Parish – Population: 6,000
5. Saint James Windward Parish – Population: 2,500
6. Saint John Capisterre Parish – Population: 7,000
7. Saint John Figtree Parish – Population: 2,000
8. Saint Mary Cayon Parish – Population: 5,500
9. Saint Paul Capisterre Parish – Population: 5,000
10. Saint Paul Charlestown Parish – Population: 2,000
11. Saint Peter Basseterre Parish – Population: 4,000
12. Saint Thomas Lowland Parish – Population: 4,500
13. Saint Thomas Middle Island Parish – Population: 3,000
14. Trinity Palmetto Point Parish – Population: 6,500

10 Largest Cities by Population

1. Basseterre
2. Sandy Point Town
3. Cayon
4. Charlestown
5. Dieppe Bay Town
6. Gingerland
7. Tabernacle
8. Middle Island
9. Old Road Town
10. Cotton Ground

Education Systems

Free Education

Education in Saint Kitts and Nevis is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The government provides funding for public schools, which offer primary and secondary education. There are also private schools and tertiary institutions, including the University of the West Indies Open Campus in Saint Kitts.

Top Universities

The University of the West Indies Open Campus in Saint Kitts offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, education, and social sciences. The institution is part of the wider University of the West Indies system, which is renowned for its academic excellence and research contributions.

Transportation

Airports

Saint Kitts and Nevis have one international airport, the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, located on the island of Saint Kitts. The airport serves as the main gateway to the country and handles both domestic and international flights. It is named after the first Premier of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Robert L. Bradshaw.

Ports

The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis have several ports and harbors, including Port Zante in Basseterre and Charlestown Port in Nevis. These ports facilitate maritime trade and transportation, handling cargo shipments and cruise ship arrivals. Port Zante is a popular destination for cruise tourists, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment facilities.

Country Facts

• Population: 55,000
• Capital: Basseterre
• Official Language: English
• Religion: Christianity (Protestantism)
• Race: Afro-Caribbean, Indo-Caribbean, Mixed
• Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• ISO Country Code: KN
• International Calling Code: +1-869
• Top-Level Domain: .kn