More than 800 people have already expressed interest in volunteering for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), as Antigua and Barbuda intensifies preparations for one of the largest international events ever hosted in the country.
The update was provided to Cabinet by High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Karen-Mae Hill and Director General of Foreign Affairs Ann-Marie Layne during a comprehensive briefing on the country’s readiness for the summit, which is scheduled for November 2026.
According to Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, preparations are advancing across key areas including logistics, security, transportation, accommodation, protocol and event management. Officials reported strong international interest in the meeting, with several delegations already finalizing accommodation arrangements while others continue to complete travel plans.
A significant number of heads of government and senior officials from across the Commonwealth are expected to attend the summit, placing Antigua and Barbuda at the centre of international attention during the gathering. Invitations have also generated positive responses from major international organizations and development partners.
Merchant said volunteer recruitment has attracted considerable public interest, with approximately 800 individuals indicating their willingness to assist during the event. In addition, more than 130 delegation liaison officers have already been identified to provide direct support to visiting delegations. Training programmes for volunteers and support personnel will continue in the months leading up to the summit.
The CHOGM preparations are taking on added significance because they coincide with an anticipated state visit by King Charles III.
Merchant told the briefing that the King is expected to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the same period and is also scheduled to travel to Barbuda as part of the visit. Preparations for both CHOGM and the royal visit have therefore entered a heightened phase as government agencies continue planning and coordination efforts.
Officials say the summit will bring leaders from across the Commonwealth to Antigua and Barbuda, providing an opportunity to showcase the country on the global stage while strengthening its profile within the international community.