Find Water and Sanitation expertise in St Kitts and Nevis

In 2010, 99% of the population used an improved drinking water source and 96% had adequate sanitation facilities. The islands of St Kitts and Nevis rely mainly upon surface and ground water sources. The St Kitts water supply system comprises six surface water intakes and a number of wells. Nevis’ water supply comes mainly via mountain spring intakes, and is supplemented by several earthen dams. The country’s entire population has some degree of access to domestic water supplies. Sewage treatment in St Kitts and Nevis is limited; residents are largely dependent on septic tanks, soakaways and pit latrines.

The Water Department works under the Ministry of Public Works, Utilities, Transport and Postal Services to maintain control over water production and utilization. Its responsibilities include implementing tariffs, installing and managing water systems, and constructing reservoirs. Tap water is treated for purification and is generally considered safe to drink, however there is also a market for bottled water, with the St Kitts Bottling company bottling the Aquavita brand.