The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda this week continued discussions on a national housing renewal initiative aimed at replacing derelict structures, expanding the delivery of affordable housing using modern construction techniques, and enhancing inter-agency collaboration in housing and social development.

As part of this initiative, the Cabinet approved the creation of a Social Housing Development Fund with an initial injection of $3 million. The government will also acquire a block plant to produce construction blocks to be sold at concessional rates to low-income and vulnerable citizens.

In tandem with housing renewal, a dedicated unit will be established to demolish derelict buildings across the country, working closely with the Central Board of Health, the Ministry of Social Transformation, the National Solid Waste Management Authority, and the Development Control Authority.

Cabinet further emphasized the planting of fruit and ornamental trees, pledging support to the Ministry of Agriculture, the Department of the Environment, and National Housing to meet the target of planting one million trees annually.

The government is also accelerating efforts to clean and beautify the nation. Excavators, heavy-duty trucks, and other equipment have been mobilized to assist in monthly community clean-up campaigns.

Complementing these physical improvements, public education initiatives will promote proper waste disposal, recycling, and civic participation, reinforcing that maintaining a clean, green, and healthy country is a shared responsibility.