"WE DID IT” — A DEFINING MOMENT FOR ST LUCIA

Rayneau Gajadhar

On a proud afternoon in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia witnessed a moment that will be remembered for generations. As the keys to the newly reconstructed St. Jude Hospital were handed over, Rayneau Gajadhar—CEO of the Rayneau Group and lead contractor through CIE—delivered an emotional, honest, and unforgettable address that captured the spirit behind this monumental achievement.

His first words said it all:

“Prime Minister, we did it.”

It was not just a declaration of completion; it was the release of four years of pressure, sacrifice, and dedication poured into a project the entire nation had been watching closely.

A Promise Made. A Promise Delivered.

Rayneau recalled the day Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre phoned him with a simple but profound request:

“Rayeau, the only thing I’m asking you for is to get this hospital completed for the people.”

That trust became the engine behind every sleepless night, every hurdle, every financial strain—even openly admitting that sometimes his own wife went unpaid while the project demanded more and more resources.

Yet, through the challenges, he pressed on.

Why?

Because he believed in the promise made to the people of the South.

Leadership, Teamwork & Heart

One of the most powerful themes of his address was humility. Though his name stands at the forefront, Rayneau made it clear:

“Had it not been for my staff, there’s nothing I could have done.”

From engineers and site supervisors to procurement staff and labourers, he highlighted the individuals whose names the public may never know, but whose work now stands tall in the form of a world-class medical facility.

He gave heartfelt thanks to:

Dr. Patrick Joseph, whose guidance helped him navigate the noise, scrutiny, and technical roadblocks.

Mr. Joshi, Vinay, Arjit

Kim Willie, who quietly ensured things ran smoothly day after day.

Kendell, George, his wife Navita

And the entire CIE family across St. Lucia and the region.

Global Respect for Saint Lucia’s Leadership

Rayneau also shared a powerful revelation: during his meetings with the Saudi Fund, they expressed deep admiration for Prime Minister Pierre, stating that St. Lucia’s leader is respected, trusted, and supported.

The message was clear:

St. Jude stands today because leadership, partnership, and trust came together.

A Nation’s Gratitude

The handover of the St. Jude Hospital is more than the completion of a building—it is the restoration of dignity to the South, a renewed promise of quality healthcare, and a shining symbol of what St. Lucians can accomplish when purpose meets perseverance.

Rayneau closed with a simple but triumphant acknowledgment:

“Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for putting your trust in me… and I am happy that I delivered.”

History has been written.

St. Lucia is proud.

And the South can finally breathe again