Basseterre, Saint Kitts (Public Infrastructure News) – The Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Energy and Utilities and the Water Services Department (WSD) are developing a national water conservation campaign in response to prolonged drought across the Eastern Caribbean, which is placing increasing pressure on the country’s water supply.
Water Security for a Sustainable Future Campaign
Over the next few weeks, the Water Security for a Sustainable Future campaign will highlight how the current drought conditions, decreased rainfall over the last decade, and climate change have negatively impacted the Water Services Department’s ability to supply adequate amounts of water from historically reliable sources.
The campaign will also highlight how the government is advancing the country’s long-term water security strategy through innovation, conservation and timely action.
Innovation
To improve water security, the WSD has increasingly relied on technology to bridge the gap between supply and demand. In February 2026, the commissioning of the Basseterre Desalination Plant increased round-the-clock water service from 25% to 75% of the population. Additional investments in hydrogeological surveys through airborne technology have also led to more precise identification of potential wells and the initiation of drilling in Saddlers. Still, officials affirm that innovation is just one part of the equation.
Conservation
Cromwell Williams, Water Manager and Engineer at the WSD, says conservation is a critical part of the sustainable management of the country’s water resources.
“We have always understood that we have to find additional water, whether it is from wells or desalination, but this is not sustainable management. For us, the only way to manage water is sustainable management.
Cromwell Williams, WSD Manager and Engineer
“Sustainable management means that we’re not just looking at how much water the WSD pours into the bucket. We must look at what customers are doing with the water.”
With much of the new campaign geared towards increasing the public’s water conservation efforts, officials intend to amplify the message of collective responsibility for water management through targeted public service announcements, school outreach, community events, conservation tips, online resources and other forms of engagement.
Why the Campaign Matters Now
Officials say the campaign is urgent because prolonged drought and changing weather patterns continue to reduce rainfall and the amount of water available from traditional sources. They also note that developing new water supplies through desalination and groundwater exploration requires significant investment.
Officials hope the campaign will strengthen a culture of water conservation and encourage more responsible water use.
Learn more about this campaign and how you can participate by clicking the button below.
