Latest Posts
Three representatives from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) will arrive in St Helena on Saturday 17 January 2026 for a week-long visit to participate in the Financial Aid Mission (FAM) discussions for the 2026-27 financial year.
Whilst on island, the FAM team led by Nick Wareham, Deputy Director of FCDO’s Overseas Territories and Polar Directorate will be supported by the Governor’s Office team, Ministers and SHG officials.
The FAM takes place annually and provides an opportunity to discuss in person the delivery and effectiveness of the FCDO’s Financial Aid programme in St Helena, and to continue to develop the partnership approach between SHG and His Majesty’s Government (HMG). Whilst on island the team will meet and engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including Ministers, Elected Members, government officials, members of the private sector, IRB and pension receivers, SHAPE and wider stakeholders.
Financial Aid is integrated into SHG’s budget to support essential public services, with up to £35.79 million recurrent support being provided to St Helena in the 2025-26 financial year, in addition to the capital funding for ongoing programmes (including the £30m Economic Development Investment Programme) and funding to Maritime, the Cloud Forest and Blue Belt initiatives.
The delegation has a full schedule of events planned and, alongside the Governor and Ministers, will be hosting a press conference with local media on Friday 23 January between 15:45 and 16:15.
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
#StHelena #OverseasDevelopmentAssistance #FinancialAid
MACS Shipping has taken a significant step in strengthening its service to St Helena Island with the purchase of MV Karoline, the vessel dedicated to the island’s cargo operations. Previously chartered to provide monthly service since February 2024, MV Karoline, built in 2006, 86.58 meters in length with a gross tonnage of 2,588, is now fully owned by MACS. This acquisition allows for more direct control over scheduling, maintenance, and operational planning, ensuring the highest standards of reliability for the island’s cargo needs.
The MV Karoline is ideally equipped to transport a wide range of goods to St Helena, including containers, refrigerated cargo, hazardous shipments, breakbulk, and LCL shipments. Ownership of the vessel enables MACS Shipping to provide a more responsive and efficient service, ensuring essential goods, construction materials, and supplies for local businesses are delivered consistently. Direct management also gives the flexibility to adapt to the island’s unique logistical requirements, reinforcing the reliability of this vital link to Cape Town and Immingham, UK.
This strategic purchase underscores MACS Shipping’s long-term commitment to St Helena. By investing in MV Karoline, the company ensures the continuation of a dedicated monthly service that the island can depend on, now and into the future. MACS Shipping looks forward to maintaining and enhancing its support for the island’s community, economy, and supply chain for many years to come.
#StHelena #Shipping
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
The St Helena Government (SHG) is pleased to announce the forthcoming release of a new series of St Helena Pound (£) banknotes. The new currency notes which include £5, £10 and £20, features the portrait of His Majesty King Charles III, and will be introduced into circulation this month. The design also features Jonathan the Tortoise and the St Helena Ebony. All three new notes will maintain their existing colours.
The issuance of these new notes is the result of work that commenced in 2024 and marks a significant step in modernising the island’s physical currency while maintaining its distinct national identity.
The Importance of the St Helena Pound (SHP)
While the St Helena Pound remains pegged to the British Pound Sterling (GBP) at parity (1:1), having its own distinct currency offers significant benefits to the island:
- Symbol of Identity: The SHP serves as a powerful symbol of St Helena’s distinct identity, heritage, and autonomous status as a British Overseas Territory.
- Local Economic Focus: It allows the currency to feature designs and imagery that celebrate the island’s unique history, culture, and endemic wildlife, fostering national pride.
- Currency Management: It provides SHG with the essential ability to manage its own note issuance and local cash circulation, ensuring an adequate and secure supply of currency tailored to the community’s needs.
State-of-the-Art Security Features
The new polymer notes incorporate the latest in banknote technology, making them more durable and significantly harder to counterfeit. These security features include:
| Feature | Action to Verify | Description |
| Clear Window | Look: Hold the note up to the light. | A transparent window is integrated into the design, visible from both the front and back. |
| Shimmer Effect | Tilt: Tilt the bank note. | A metallic shimmer will appear and move around the clear window. |
| Raised Ink (Portrait) | Feel: Run your finger over the King’s portrait. | The ink is noticeably thicker and raised, making it tactile. |
| Raised Ink (Signatures) | Feel: Run your finger over the official signatures. | The ink feels raised to the touch. |
| Tactile Dots | Feel: Run your finger over the denomination corner. | Raised dots (for the visually impaired) allow for easy recognition of the note’s value. |
| Microtext Denomination | Look: Use a magnifying glass. | The banknote denomination is printed in tiny, sharp text. |
| Negative Raised Ink | Look: Hold the note up to the light. | The microtext ST HELENA GOVERNMENT is printed in negative, raised ink that appears sharp and clear. |
| UV Fluorescence (Waves & Denomination) | Look: View under a UV light source. | Fine lines of waves and the banknote denomination will appear in two different fluorescent ink colours. |
| UV Fluorescence (Block Denomination) | Look: View under a UV light source. | The denomination number will appear in a solid, bright block under ultraviolet light. |
Further, these new notes incorporate features that will assist those who are visually impaired. Raised dots at the bottom right-hand corner of each note signify the denomination. £5 notes will have raised dots in the shape of a square; £10 notes are triangle shaped and £20 notes are in the shape of a circle.
Transition and Circulation
The existing St Helena Pound banknotes will remain legal tender and continue to circulate alongside the new notes. The SHG will manage the transition by gradually removing older, damaged notes from circulation as they are received by the Bank of St Helena.
Photo
The front and back of the new £5, £10 and £20 notes
#StHelena #Currency #NewNotes
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
At its meeting on 16 December 2025, Executive Council approved the Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025, marking an important step in strengthening St Helena’s communications framework.
The new regulations provide a clear legal basis for fees that were previously charged under the Wireless Telegraphy Regulations (WTR). Importantly, the regulations include specific fee abatements designed to support community-based and local radio stations, reducing costs for these broadcasters and helping them continue to deliver vital services to the community.
While most fees remain unchanged, the only adjustment relates to the FM radio spectrum fee, which applies to current operators, St Helena South Atlantic Media Services (SAMS) and Saint FM. This change follows consultation with FM Radio spectrum users and reflects a fair and sustainable approach.
Recognising that affordability should never be a barrier to community broadcasting, the regulations include provisions for waivers or fee reductions under Regulation 8. This ensures that local stations can continue to operate and serve the public without undue financial pressure, in line with St Helena’s policy for communication networks and services.
Minister Karl Thrower commented:
“This decision demonstrates Executive Council’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive media environment and supporting local community radio across the island.”
#StHelena #CommunicationsRegulations #SpectrumFees
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
A meeting of the Governor in Council was held on 16 December 2025.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
| CLOSED AGENDA 1. Declaration of Interest 2. Application for Dispensation under the Immigration Control Ordinance, 2011 – ********* (GiC 05/2025) 3. Application for Dispensation under the Immigration Control Ordinance, 2011 – ********* (GiC 06/2025) NB (*) confirms names are redacted as the information is sensitive. |
The following items were considered:
- Declaration of Interest.
Minister Henry declared his interest for Agenda item 3 and absented himself for this item.
2. & 3. Applications for Dispensation under the Immigration Control Ordinance, 2011 (GiC 05/2025) & (GiC 06/2025)
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise:
(a) whether to grant dispensation from the requirements of Paragraph 1 of Schedule II of the Immigration Ordinance, 2011 in the circumstances of the applicants, and as provided for in Paragraph 4 of Schedule II of the Immigration Ordinance, 2011; and
(b) In considering the grant of a Dispensation, whether Governor in Council was satisfied that:
(i) The applicant has a substantial economic, social or historical connection with St Helena;
(ii) There are exceptional circumstances why strict compliance with the requirements should be dispensed with; and
(iii) It would be in the public interest to grant the dispensation.
Dispensation for both applications was granted by Governor in Council on the grounds of there being exceptional circumstances why strict compliance with the requirements should be dispensed with.
Letters have been sent to the applicants to inform them of the outcome and to advise they can now apply for St Helenian status.
Christmas is upon us once again. The decoration of houses with amazing light displays never fails to delight. It is similarly delightful to see so many people out and about; aircraft filled to capacity is only good news. At this special time of year the creativity of the community is on full display, whether it be the Festival of Lights, the school nativity plays or any of the other great events being organised. That positivity is uplifting.
As ever, the past year has been busy; in fact it is astonishing just how busy it does get on this island. One of the most significant milestones was our general election, a true testament to the strength and vibrancy of our democracy. With the election of our new government, we have seen new faces and ideas, all committed to continuing the mission of steering St Helena towards greater progress. A dodgy knee (in case you hadn’t noticed) will not prevent me and my team from continuing to put our shoulders to the wheel in support.
There have been real achievements over the past year to celebrate. Rupert’s Port is now complete, so too the roads connecting it to Jamestown. We are also making progress on several other infrastructure and essential equipment projects, all of which will increase the capacity of St Helena to grow. The continual strengthening of the island’s critical national infrastructure is in a way akin to expanding our foundations in such a manner that new opportunities to build are made possible.
But of course, it is always about people. Throughout the year my wife and I have found special joy in opening Plantation House for district receptions, a new initiative this year. It has been truly heartening to welcome so many residents, many for the very first time, into this historic home. Seeing Plantation House filled with laughter, conversation and the spirit of community has been one of the greatest pleasures of our tenure. These gatherings are an enactment of my determination that we respect, celebrate and recognise the incredible good work carried out across St Helena by individuals and groups who give so much to island life.
Respect is essentially about caring for one another. All of us face different challenges, some can go unseen. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes takes effort, but it is the foundation of the sort of kindness communities rely upon to thrive. One aspect of that sort of kindness is recognising that whilst joyful for most, for some in the community Christmas can be especially difficult. For those mourning or struggling, it is my heartfelt wish that the Christmas message of hope will help those in need to find peace and strength.
It would not be one of my Christmas messages if I did not pause to remember and give thanks to all those who will be working over Christmas to deliver essential services and keep our community safe. To those so engaged, I say your dedication merits our respect and is deeply appreciated.
As 2026 draws near, my mind turns to how much more there is to do in the ongoing mission to tackle some of the major challenges we face. The work to develop the education sector is now visible. Although it will herald change, my hope is that we will advance our efforts to retain and attract young families and develop the next generation who are the future of this island.
Developing the economy is also critical and obviously tourism has a key role to play. There are some exciting opportunities being worked up, not least the marathon and adventure week in February. This too builds on the work that has gone before, most recently the highly successful tour of the Titans cricket team. This island has a host of talented sports men and women and initiatives such as this offer a multitude of benefits.
To close. This will be my last Christmas message as Governor. Let me then on behalf of my wife and myself, extend our warmest wishes for a very Merry Christmas. And whatever your faith, may the New Year bring health, happiness, and prosperity to you all.
Photo
HE Governor Nigel Phillips CBE, and Mrs Emma Phillips
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
The use of drones are governed by Air Navigation (Overseas Territories) Order (AN(OT)O and regulated by Air Safety Support International (ASSI) for commercial permissions.
With the rise in drone usage for personal and recreational purposes, especially during the festive season it is important to ensure safe, responsible, and respectful drone operations to protect both the environment and public safety.
Please be mindful of the following
Airspace Restrictions
All drone operations must comply with ASSI regulations. Operators should be aware of restricted zones, including areas around the airport, sensitive environmental zones, and protected wildlife habitats.
Altitude Limits
Drones must be flown at a maximum altitude of 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level
No-Fly Zones
It is prohibited to fly drones in certain areas, including near government buildings, military establishments, and key infrastructure sites. Operators should check for updated no-fly zone maps regularly to stay informed. The Drone Map can be found on the St Helena Airport website https://sthelenaairport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drone_Rules_Design_CMYK_PRINT_A3_17May2023.pdf
Respect for Privacy
Drone operators must respect the privacy of residents, tourists, and individuals. It is illegal to use drones to capture images or videos without the consent of those being recorded, particularly in private spaces.
Safety First
Drones should be flown in a manner that avoids risk to people, animals, and property. Operators are advised to avoid flying near large crowds, wildlife, or public events. All flights should take place in good weather conditions to ensure visibility and control.
Flying in Port
Members of the public are reminded that the harbour and port areas are safety-critical operational environments. Anyone wishing to fly a drone within the port boundary or in the immediate vicinity of harbour operations is strongly advised to seek prior permission from the Harbour Master, Simon Wade on e mail simon.wade@sainthelena.gov.sh Tel 22738
This allows risks to be assessed and managed, particularly in relation to vessel movements, cargo operations, emergency response activities, and public safety.
Drone users should also be aware that cruise ships and other vessels may be considered people’s homes while in port, and the use of drones in close proximity may raise privacy and personal data concerns. Responsible and considerate operation is essential to avoid unsafe situations, disruption to port activities, or intrusion into private space
SHG
22 December 2025
Friday, 12 December 2025 marked a significant and deeply emotional day for St Helena’s educational landscape as the island’s three primary schools—Harford Primary, St Paul’s Primary, and Pilling Primary—closed their doors.
Each school hosted special ceremonies and events, including the burial of Time Capsules, to commemorate their history and legacy before they transition into the island’s new schooling structure. Carefully selected items from each class were placed into the Time Capsules, creating a legacy that symbolises the learning, friendships, and values of each school community.
Minister for Education, the Honourable Andrew Turner, attended the Time Capsule Ceremony at St Paul’s Primary and participated in the ceremony at Harford Primary, sharing in the moving farewells. The day was filled with deep emotion, balancing a strong sense of pride and gratitude for the schools’ achievements alongside the sadness of the temporary closure.
St Paul’s Primary School: An Emotional Farewell and Tribute
St Paul’s Primary School held an emotional Time Capsule Ceremony to mark the temporary closure of the school, which is set to reopen as a Key Stage 1 (KS1) school in January 2026. The event brought together pupils, staff (past and present), parents, Bishop Dale, and various government officials to reflect on the school’s journey.
A heartfelt tribute was paid to Headteacher, Mrs Patricia Williams, for her extraordinary dedication. Mrs Williams was warmly thanked by pupils and staff for her 48 years spent teaching and leading in primary education. While she is stepping down as Headteacher, she will continue to serve the educational community as a Primary School Advisory Officer until August 2026, ensuring her passion leaves an indelible mark on generations of children.
Harford Primary School: A Community Bash
Harford Primary School celebrated its closure with a lively “Harford Bash,” transforming the day into a memorable community fun day for parents and children alike. The event included activities such as kite-making and various outdoor games like rounders, cricket, and football, culminating in a whole-school Graduation Ceremony. Harford Primary provided a fitting and joyous day to appreciate the profound impact the school has had on the Longwood community.
Pilling Primary School: Honouring a Legacy of Learning
Pilling Primary School marked this historic milestone and the closure of its doors to KS1 pupils with a distinguished Graduation Assembly. This ceremony, attended by parents and learners, provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the school’s achievements and offer a heartfelt farewell to the KS1 teachers and staff.
The celebrations continued with a KS1 disco at The Mule Yard, allowing pupils to gather one final time to wish one another well in their new schools. These events followed weeks of notable acknowledgments, including the school’s recent Bonanza and Festival of Lights, ensuring that Pilling Primary’s unique history and contribution to the island were celebrated and commemorated.
Minister Turner commented:
“These ceremonies mark the beginning of a bold new chapter, a once-in-a-lifetime investment in the future of primary education. Our primary schools have always been at the heart of our community, and as we move through this transition, they will continue to need the support and involvement of the community to thrive.
This transformation will not be easy, but it has been made possible by the dedication and support of headteachers, staff, parents, and most importantly, the children, whose involvement has been invaluable in shaping this change. I would like to pay particular tribute to Mrs Pat Williams, who concluded her remarkable tenure as a headteacher before moving into an advisory role in education. Her leadership and commitment have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire us all.”
Photos
St Paul’s Time Capsule Ceremony
Farewell Assembly at St Paul’s
Mrs Pat Williams, preparing to place her Headteacher name tag in the Time Capsule
Kite-making and flying, amongst other activities, took place at the “Harford Bash”
At the Time Capsule Ceremony, speeches were delivered by Mrs Carlean Crowie, Headteacher, and Minister Andrew Turner
The Time Capsule, to be opened in December 2075
The Graduation Ceremony began with the Nursery Class
Mrs Elaine Benjamin, Headteacher of Pilling Primary, wishes her KS1 staff farewell
#StHelena #PrimaryReorganisation #SchoolClosure
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
A meeting of Executive Council (ExCo) was held on 16 December 2025.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
| CLOSED AGENDA 1. Declarations of Conflict of Interest 2. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 17 June 2025 3. Matters Arising from Minutes of 17 June 2025 4. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 14 October 2025 5. Matters Arising from Minutes of 14 October 2025 6. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 18 November 2025 7. Matters Arising from Minutes of 18 November 2025 8. Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025 (ExCo Memo 64/2025) 9. *Options for Long-term Improvements to the Domestic Telecommunications Network (ExCo Memo 65/2025) 10. Ministerial Updates on significant issues 11. Any Other Business NB Items marked (*) are commercially sensitive and depending on the subject matter, might not be referred to in the top lines. |
The following items were considered:
2 – 7. Confirmation of Minutes and Matters Arising from the Minutes
Minutes for 17 June and 14 October were signed off.
Minutes for the meeting of 18 November were deferred until the next meeting.
8. Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025 (ExCo Memo 64/2025)
Executive Council was asked to consider and advise whether the Communications (Spectrum Fees) Regulations, 2025 should be approved and to take effect on the date of publication.
9. *Options for Long-term Improvements to the Domestic Telecommunications Network (ExCo Memo 65/2025)
Executive Council was asked to consider options for the future of telecoms on St Helena and to advise whether SHG officers should engage with Sure SA Ltd to work through the full package available for a longer-term relationship with the company.
Executive Council has given SHG Officers a mandate to continue the dialogue with SURE SA Ltd to develop the full detail of the options. In the event an agreement with Sure is achieved, Executive Council have instructed SHG Officers to concurrently explore alternative options for telecoms provision. This is in line with our commitment to ensure the best possible outcome for St Helena. A final decision on the selected option will be made by mid-2026.
10. Ministerial Updates on significant issues
No updates were made.
- Any Other Business
No matters were raised.
#StHelena #ExCo #Toplines
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
St Helena Port Control wishes to remind the public that Rupert’s is the primary location of St Helena’s official commercial port, and access to the beach and surrounding area is managed strictly for public safety according to and depending on cargo operations.
To help you plan your visit this summer, here is a simple guide to the three access levels for the Rupert’s Cargo Management Facility:
Access Level 3: Vessel Alongside – Bay and Beach are FULLY CLOSED
This is the highest access level and is in effect when the main cargo ship or fuel tanker is alongside at Rupert’s Jetty.
| Status | Details |
| Beach Access | CLOSED. No public access to the beach area. |
| Bay Access | CLOSED. No swimming, boating, or public access to the water. |
| Vehicular/Foot Access | Restricted to authorised personnel only. Not open to the public. |
Please note:If a vessel is berthed alongside Rupert’s Jetty and relevant operations are underway and/or safety and security protocols are required, the entire bay and beach are closed for your safety and to comply with international security laws.
Access Level 2: Cargo Collection – Beach OPEN via Footpath
This level is in effect after a service vessel has departed, but while cargo operations are still underway, involving the movement and assortment of cargo within the main facility area.
| Status | Details |
| Beach Access | OPEN to the public via the designated footpath. |
| Bay Access | OPEN for swimming, boating, and other maritime use. |
| Vehicular Access | Restricted to authorised personnel only. The public is not permitted to drive or park in the lower facility area without approval from Port Control. |
Please note: You can enjoy the beach and bay, but please park elsewhere and use the footpath to stay clear of cargo operations.
Access Level 1: No Cargo Operations – All areas OPEN
This is the least restrictive level, meaning no cargo operations are underway that will impact public access.
| Status | Details |
| Beach Access | OPEN (Normal access) |
| Bay Access | OPEN (Normal maritime use) |
| Vehicular Access | The public road is open for driving. The public is permitted to drive and park in order to access the beach and bay. |
Please note: The main cargo yards remain restricted, but the beach, bay, and public road are fully open.
Planned Vessel Arrivals
The Access Level 3 Closure (Bay and Beach Fully Closed) is activated when the main cargo vessel, the MV Karoline, arrives. Please be aware of the following provisional dates for the summer season:
| Voyage | Estimated Arrival Date | Expected Closure Type |
| MACS V23 | Saturday, 07 February 2026 | Cargo (MV Karoline) |
| MACS V24 | Thursday, 05 March 2026 | Cargo (MV Karoline) |
| MACS V25 | Sunday, 05 April 2026 | Cargo (MV Karoline) |
Important Note: The Access Level 3 Closure typically lasts between 1 to 3 days following the arrival of the vessel. Closures are also enforced for fuel tankers and other critical shipping. All dates are provisional and subject to change due to weather or operational issues.
For the most accurate and up-to-the-minute confirmation of the current access level and precise closure times, please check the latest updates via:
- Radio Announcements
- SHG Social Media Channels
- Official SHG Public Announcements
We thank you for your cooperation and understanding during these periods.