REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF WEDNESDAY 20thMay 2026

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda commenced its weekly meeting on Wednesday with a moment of spiritual reflection led by a Deacon of the Catholic Church, who delivered prayers and read from the beloved 23rd Psalm.

Drawing from the words, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” the Deacon reflected on the enduring assurance of God’s guidance, provision, and protection even during moments of uncertainty and challenge. He reminded members that leadership carries with it not only authority, but a sacred responsibility to serve people with humility, wisdom, compassion, and integrity.

The meditation emphasized that just as the shepherd guides his flock beside still waters and along righteous paths, so too must national leaders seek divine wisdom in their deliberations and decisions. The Psalm’s message of restoration, courage, and steadfast faith served as a timely reminder that true leadership requires calm judgment, moral clarity, and a commitment to the welfare of all people.

The Deacon encouraged Cabinet members to remain steadfast in their efforts to improve the lives of citizens and residents across Antigua and Barbuda, noting that the pursuit of national development must always be rooted in service, unity, and compassion for others. He reflected on the importance of perseverance in public life and the need for leaders to draw strength from faith as they confront the many responsibilities associated with governance.

In his concluding prayer, the Deacon asked Almighty God to guide the Cabinet through the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, grant its members discernment in their decision-making, and strengthen them as they work tirelessly to uplift their respective communities and advance the development of Antigua and Barbuda.

He prayed that God would continue to bless the nation with peace, wisdom, stability, and unity, and that all deliberations undertaken by the Cabinet would ultimately redound to the benefit and wellbeing of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

1. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the recommendations submitted by the Land Registry regarding the imminent establishment and launch of the Barbuda Land Registry, marking another important milestone in the modernization and strengthening of land administration systems in Antigua and Barbuda.Cabinet was informed that the Land Adjudication process in Barbuda is nearing completion and that preparations are underway for the official launch of the Barbuda Land Registry on or about 31st August 2026.Following detailed discussions and consideration of the recommendations advanced by the Registrar of Lands, Cabinet approved the proposal for the centralized management of Barbuda land registers through the existing Land Registry structure in Antigua in the first instance. This arrangement will allow Barbuda land records to be created, maintained, and serviced utilizing the current operational systems and expertise of the Land Registry, thereby ensuring continuity, efficiency, and administrative stability during the transition period.Cabinet agreed that this approach minimizes the immediate operational risks associated with establishing a fully independent physical office in Barbuda within a compressed timeframe, particularly in relation to staffing, infrastructure, training, and procurement requirements.At the same time, Cabinet acknowledged the importance of ensuring accessibility and service delivery to residents of Barbuda and therefore approved continued assessments regarding the future establishment of a satellite Land Registry office on the island as operational demands evolve.Cabinet further approved the commencement of the necessary staffing, recruitment, and training preparations to support the operation of the Barbuda Land Registry. Consideration will also be given to interim arrangements to facilitate training and onboarding activities, including the use of temporary venues and remote learning platforms where necessary.The Cabinet emphasized that the establishment of the Barbuda Land Registry represents a significant advancement in land governance, transparency, and legal certainty for property administration in Barbuda. The new system is expected to enhance the management of land records, improve public access to registry services, and strengthen confidence in land transactions and ownership records.Work on the establishment of the Barbuda Land Registry runs parallel with government’s decision to sell lands on Barbuda for $1 to Barbudans. Currently, preparations are being made for the clearing of 216 acres of land at Louis Hill for sale.

2. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday received a comprehensive presentation from the Head of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) on the ongoing refurbishment and restructuring works at the School of Agriculture located at the former Glanvilles Secondary School.

Cabinet was informed that the School of Agriculture is currently offering a series of short courses aimed at equipping participants with practical agricultural skills and expanding opportunities within the sector. As part of the presentation, students enrolled in the programmes proudly showcased a variety of produce cultivated through the training initiatives, demonstrating the institution’s growing capacity and the tangible outcomes already being achieved.

The Head of ABCAS updated Cabinet on the significant progress being made to transform the former secondary school into a modern agricultural training institution in preparation for the commencement of the new academic year in September 2026.

Cabinet was advised that the extensive refurbishment programme includes the upgrading and rehabilitation of classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices, common areas, and agricultural support facilities. Works presently underway include the refurbishment of six classrooms and the auditorium, installation of security louvre windows, repairs to hurricane shutters, epoxy flooring, and the outfitting of food laboratory and storage facilities.

Further enhancements include the refurbishment of a chemistry laboratory and the buildout of a new biology laboratory with upgraded water, gas and electrical systems. Cabinet was also informed of ongoing electrical upgrades, installation of energy-efficient lighting, improvements to roofing and drainage systems, painting works, and the installation of additional air-conditioning systems and laboratory exhaust infrastructure.

The presentation also highlighted plans for the construction of two poultry pens and the reconfiguration of several buildings to accommodate student services, laboratories, conference facilities, staff amenities, cafeteria services and storage areas.

Cabinet commended the leadership of ABCAS, faculty members, technical teams and students for the progress achieved thus far and for their commitment to advancing agricultural education and food security in Antigua and Barbuda.

Members of Cabinet noted that the continued development of the School of Agriculture forms part of the Government’s broader agenda to strengthen technical and vocational education, encourage youth participation in agriculture, and build national resilience through increased local food production.

Cabinet expressed satisfaction with the pace of work being undertaken and reaffirmed its full support for the completion of the project ahead of the start of the September school term.

3. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed a presentation from the Minister for Health, Wellness, the Environment and Public Service Affairs on the continued expansion of eye care services across the country through strategic regional and international partnerships.Cabinet was informed that a team of specialist doctors from the Trinidad Eye Hospital is once again in Antigua and Barbuda to provide critical eye surgeries and ophthalmological services to patients under the annual collaborative programme involving the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and the Medical Benefits Scheme.The Minister reported that this year’s mission is expected to deliver more than four hundred eye surgeries to individuals affected by various vision-related conditions, continuing a programme that has significantly improved the quality of life for many citizens over the years.In addition to surgical interventions, Cabinet was advised that the programme has been expanded to include a comprehensive school screening initiative aimed at early detection and treatment of vision problems among the nation’s youth. Under the initiative, approximately six thousand primary school students and four thousand secondary school students across Antigua and Barbuda will undergo eye examinations and screenings.The Minister emphasized the importance of early diagnosis in improving educational outcomes and ensuring that students affected by visual impairments receive timely treatment and corrective support.Cabinet was further informed that the Government will next week receive a shipment of free eyeglasses under the Prime Ministerial Vision Initiative, a national programme developed in partnership with international non-governmental organizations including RestoringVision and VisionSpring.The initiative seeks to establish community-based “Blind Free Zone” centres throughout Antigua and Barbuda and is specifically designed to tackle preventable and correctable vision impairment at the community level.Through the programme, reading glasses will be distributed immediately to individuals suffering from near-vision impairment, while low-cost prescription glasses will also be made available to persons requiring specialized corrective lenses.The Minister noted that the initiative represents another important step in the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen preventative healthcare services and expand equitable access to vision care for citizens and residents alike.Cabinet commended the Ministry for Health, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, the Medical Benefits Scheme, the Trinidad Eye Hospital, and all local and international partners involved in the initiative for their continued commitment to improving healthcare delivery and enhancing the wellbeing of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

1. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a series of healthcare upgrades for Barbuda aimed at expanding medical services, improving patient access, and enhancing the overall delivery of healthcare on the sister island.

The decision followed a comprehensive presentation by the Minister for Health, Wellness, the Environment and Public Service Affairs, who provided Cabinet with an overview of recent visits conducted across several departments and institutions within his Ministry, including the Hannah Thomas Hospital in Barbuda.

During his report, the Minister advised Cabinet that the Hannah Thomas Hospital continues to operate efficiently within its present capabilities and remains committed to delivering quality healthcare services to the people of Barbuda.

Cabinet was informed that the Ministry of Health intends to reintroduce childbirth services to Barbuda, marking a significant milestone in the restoration and enhancement of healthcare services on the island. Since the passage of Hurricane Irma in 2017, all childbirth procedures for residents of Barbuda have been conducted at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre in Antigua.

The Minister noted that the restoration of maternity services in Barbuda forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to ensuring that residents of the sister island have greater access to essential healthcare services closer to home.

Cabinet also approved plans to upgrade the range of services available at the Hannah Thomas Hospital to include laboratory services, thereby improving diagnostic capabilities and reducing the need for residents to travel to Antigua for routine medical testing and related healthcare needs.

Additionally, the Ministry will implement a new patient booking system that will allow residents of Barbuda to schedule appointments for specialized medical services in Antigua, including X-rays and MRI examinations, directly from Barbuda.

The initiative is expected to significantly reduce the inconvenience and financial burden currently faced by patients who are often required to travel to Antigua simply to secure appointments before returning at a later date for the actual procedures.

Cabinet welcomed the proposed improvements as part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to modernize healthcare delivery, improve accessibility, and ensure equitable healthcare services for all citizens and residents, regardless of geographic location.

The Cabinet further commended the Ministry of Health for its proactive approach to strengthening healthcare systems in Barbuda and reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in the health and wellbeing of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

2. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a series of enhanced public health measures aimed at strengthening the nation’s preparedness and response capabilities in light of emerging and ongoing global health concerns.The measures were presented to Cabinet by the Minister for Health, Wellness, the Environment and Public Service Affairs, the Hon. Michael Joseph, who advised that his Ministry has been closely monitoring developments relating to several international health threats, including outbreaks of Hantavirus, Ebola, and Malaria in various parts of the world.Minister Joseph informed Cabinet that the Ministry of Health has already commenced the process of upgrading the operations of the Port Health Unit to facilitate enhanced monitoring and surveillance protocols at the nation’s ports of entry.Among the measures to be implemented are expanded health screening procedures, including temperature testing and enhanced traveler monitoring systems designed to identify potential public health risks before entry into Antigua and Barbuda.Cabinet was advised that incoming travelers will also be required to disclose details of their travel history over the previous twenty-one days. This measure will allow health authorities to determine whether individuals may have traveled through countries where any of the identified viruses are currently prevalent and to ensure that the appropriate health protocols and precautionary measures are implemented where necessary.The Minister further reported that the Ministry is undertaking preparatory work to ready the Infectious Disease Centre as a precautionary measure to ensure that the country remains adequately equipped to respond swiftly and effectively should the need arise.Cabinet fully endorsed the measures outlined by the Ministry and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting the health and safety of the people of Antigua and Barbuda through proactive planning, surveillance, and preparedness initiatives.The Cabinet also welcomed the Ministry’s decision to engage the public directly through a forthcoming press briefing, during which health officials will provide additional information on the measures being implemented and offer guidance to citizens, residents, and travelers.Cabinet commended the Ministry of Health and all frontline healthcare and public health personnel for their vigilance and continued commitment to safeguarding national public health in an increasingly interconnected global environment.

3. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed an extensive update from the Minister for Education Science and Technology, the Hon. Daryll Matthew, on several major education and infrastructure initiatives currently being undertaken by the Government.Cabinet was advised that construction work on the new Five Islands Primary School continues to progress steadily as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to improving educational infrastructure and creating modern learning environments for students and teachers.Members were also informed that bids continue to be received for the planned expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, a project regarded as critical to the continued advancement of tertiary education and human resource development in Antigua and Barbuda and the wider region.Minister Matthew further briefed Cabinet on the outcomes of his recent official visit to the People’s Republic of China, where discussions were held with several educational institutions aimed at expanding opportunities for Antiguan and Barbudan students.Cabinet was advised that the Minister successfully secured ten scholarships from the Alibaba Business School of Hangzhou Normal University for studies in entrepreneurship and e-business. The scholarships are expected to provide valuable opportunities for students and young professionals seeking advanced training in innovation, digital commerce, and modern business development.The Minister also reported that discussions are currently underway for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the institution that would facilitate additional scholarship opportunities leading to Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees.Cabinet welcomed the development and noted that the proposed collaboration aligns with the Government’s broader strategy to equip citizens with the skills, knowledge, and international exposure necessary to compete successfully in the rapidly evolving global economy.Further discussions are also expected to continue between Antigua and Barbuda and Hangzhou Normal University with a view to deepening cooperation in education, technology, research, and academic exchange programmes.Cabinet additionally noted the historic relationship established between Antigua and Barbuda and Hangzhou Normal University through Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne, who in 2025 was conferred the title of Honorary Professor by the university. The recognition marked the first occasion on which the institution awarded the distinction to a sitting Head of Government.Cabinet commended Minister Matthew for his continued efforts to expand educational opportunities for the people of Antigua and Barbuda and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to investing in education, innovation, and international partnerships as key pillars of national development.

1. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a request from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology for the hosting of the Ministry’s inaugural Leadership Summit 2026.

The summit, which will be held from May 26–28, 2026 under the theme, “Regenerating Pathways for Student Success in Primary Education,” forms part of Antigua and Barbuda’s continued collaboration with the OECS Commission under the Programme for Educational Advancement and Relevant Learning (PEARL) initiative.

Cabinet was informed that over the past five years Antigua and Barbuda has worked alongside the OECS Commission in piloting five major educational assets aimed at transforming the education landscape throughout the region. These initiatives include the Digital OECS Harmonized Primary Curriculum, Grade 2 regional assessments, comprehensive professional development programmes, the Continuous School and System Improvement Model, and enhanced monitoring, evaluation, reporting and learning mechanisms.

Having successfully piloted the initiatives, the Ministry of Education is now preparing for their full integration into the national teaching and learning environment. The Leadership Summit will serve as a critical platform to engage educators, administrators and stakeholders in final preparations for implementation and to ensure broad understanding of the proposed integration plans.

Cabinet recognized the importance of the summit in advancing national educational development and strengthening student outcomes at the primary level. Members further acknowledged the need to facilitate meaningful collaboration among participants through the use of an appropriate venue capable of accommodating plenary and breakout sessions.

Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to supporting educational transformation and initiatives that contribute to improving teaching standards, learning outcomes and the overall development of the nation’s human capital.