Antigua and Barbuda will deny visa waivers to travellers from African countries and require expanded travel history disclosures for visa applicants as the government moves to strengthen border controls amid concerns over Ebola and other infectious diseases.
The measures were announced by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing following the weekly Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.
Merchant said Cabinet reaffirmed the government’s policy of heightened vigilance as officials continue monitoring global public health developments, including Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa.
“As part of the government’s precautionary measures, Cabinet reiterated its existing policy that no visa waivers will be granted to individuals travelling from any African country,” Merchant said.
He added that applicants seeking visas from African nations will now be required to disclose their travel history for the preceding 45 days as part of the screening and application process.
Merchant said the government would also deny entry visas to individuals who recently travelled to countries or regions affected by Ebola or other serious viral outbreaks.
“Cabinet further advised that individuals who have recently travelled to countries or regions affected by Ebola or other known serious viral outbreaks will be denied entry visas in the interest of safeguarding public health and national security,” he said.
The Cabinet discussions formed part of what officials described as an ongoing review of emerging international health threats and national preparedness measures.
Merchant said the Ministry of Health, the Port Health Unit and other state agencies are continuing to strengthen response protocols aimed at detecting and containing any potential public health threat.
“The government continues to closely monitor several emerging global public health concerns, including the spread of the Ebola virus in parts of Africa, and has reiterated its commitment to protecting the health and safety of the people of Antigua and Barbuda through strengthened border control and public health measures,” he said.
According to Merchant, Cabinet members stressed that the restrictions are precautionary and designed to reduce risks associated with international travel and the spread of infectious diseases.
“Cabinet views the development in Africa and other affected regions as a serious matter and will continue to monitor the evolving situation while maintaining communication with regional and international public health authorities,” he said.
The Cabinet meeting opened with prayers led by Cabinet Secretary Ambassador Lionel Hurst, whose meditation focused on leadership, courage and perseverance in public service.
Merchant said Hurst encouraged Cabinet ministers to remain “steadfast and courageous” in carrying out their responsibilities and to approach governance with “confidence, wisdom and determination.”
The government has not announced any broader travel ban affecting citizens or residents returning to Antigua and Barbuda, but officials indicated that public health measures and border screening protocols remain under active review.