Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government is continuing a nationwide repiping and water infrastructure upgrade programme as Antigua and Barbuda faces worsening drought conditions and aging utility systems.

Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne said large sections of the country’s pipe network are outdated and losing significant amounts of water before supplies reach consumers.

“We have been replacing old pipes throughout the country,” Browne said while discussing the ongoing infrastructure programme. He added that the government is attempting to modernize the system and reduce water loss.

The prime minister linked the water challenges to prolonged dry conditions and changing climate patterns affecting Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean.

“We’re dealing with drought conditions too,” Browne said, arguing that lower rainfall levels have placed additional strain on the country’s water supply system.

Browne said the administration has also been expanding reverse osmosis production and upgrading utility infrastructure to improve supply reliability.

He further noted that water infrastructure works are being coordinated with road repairs and reconstruction projects to avoid reopening newly paved roads after resurfacing.

“You can’t fix roads and then go back after to dig them up again to replace pipes,” Browne said during the discussion on infrastructure coordination.

Water shortages and inconsistent supply remain longstanding concerns in several communities across Antigua and Barbuda, particularly during periods of drought and increased demand.

The government has said ongoing investments in desalination, repiping and utility upgrades are aimed at improving long-term water security and climate resilience.

Old Pipes are being replaced/photo by Sadique Armstrong