Prime Minister Gaston Browne has praised the development of Tranquility Park, Antigua and Barbuda’s first newly built public cemetery in over 100 years, calling it a “state-of-the-art” facility designed to offer a dignified and environmentally conscious resting place.
Speaking on his Browne and Browne show on Pointe FM, the Prime Minister said the cemetery, located on a multi-acre site, marks a major step forward in how the country approaches burial spaces, moving away from “unkempt” graveyards and “ugly concrete structures.”
“This is a state-of-the-art cemetery,” Browne said. “We are moving away from those big mounds and littered sites to something more organised, pristine, and sustainable.”
Browne credited Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph for helping bring the idea to fruition and praised the Ministry of Works for its execution of the project, which he said reflects broader efforts to improve national aesthetics and infrastructure.
The cemetery will enforce a strict no-plastic policy, prohibiting artificial wreaths and decorations to preserve its natural appearance. Additional plans include fencing the remaining undeveloped acreage to prevent illegal land sales and planting long-lasting, indigenous trees such as mahogany.
“These trees will provide shade, sequester carbon, and enhance the beauty of the space for generations,” Browne explained, describing the initiative as one that blends environmental stewardship with national pride.
The cemetery forms part of a wider government beautification strategy. The Prime Minister announced that national housing authorities have been tasked with developing nurseries—such as a new one in Painters and another on Fort Road—to cultivate ornamental plants and trees for public spaces across the country.
Browne encouraged citizens, including immigrants and renters, to take pride in their properties by planting flowers and enhancing their surroundings. “No matter how modest your home, put some nice ornamental flowers. Show a little more pride in our environment,” he said.
In addition to Tranquility Park, Browne commended Public Works Minister Maria Browne and her team for their ongoing infrastructure projects, citing the improved coordination and professionalism within the ministry.
“We’re seeing a level of pride and technical expertise from the staff that has never happened before,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the role of Public Works Director Carlos King and his team, who meet regularly to track the progress of national projects. He added, “This methodical approach has been key to the successful delivery of multiple projects across the country.”
As part of the government’s larger vision, the Prime Minister reiterated the goal of creating a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Antigua and Barbuda—starting with how the nation remembers and honours its dead.