Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant

REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

MEETING OF FRIDAY 6th NOVEMBER 2026

Cabinet commenced its weekly meeting on Friday with the customary meditation, led by a pastor from the Pentecostal Church, who reflected on Psalm 8.

The pastor drew attention to the majesty and greatness of God as revealed through His creation. He reflected on the heavens, the moon and the stars, emphasizing that the vastness and beauty of the universe demonstrate the power and glory of the Almighty.

He highlighted the significance of the Psalmist’s reflection on humanity, particularly the question of why God, who created such an immense universe, remains mindful of mankind and has entrusted human beings with responsibility over His creation. He reminded Cabinet that although human beings may appear small in comparison with the greatness of the universe, they hold a special place in God’s plan and have been given the responsibility to exercise stewardship with wisdom and care.

The pastor encouraged those present to recognize that positions of authority and responsibility should be approached with humility, gratitude and a sense of accountability. He underscored the importance of seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in the discharge of their duties, particularly when making decisions that affect the lives and welfare of the people.

He reminded Cabinet that leadership must be exercised with compassion, integrity and a commitment to the greater good, acknowledging that human wisdom alone is insufficient without divine direction.

The meditation concluded with the pastor offering a prayer, asking Almighty God to protect the members of Cabinet, grant them wisdom and discernment, and guide their thoughts, decisions and actions as they carry out their responsibilities in service to the nation.

CABINET COMMENDS FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER AND ORGANISING TEAM ON SUCCESSFUL HOSTING OF CHOGM 2026

Cabinet has commended the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Honourable E. P. Chet Greene, for his leadership and contribution towards the successful hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda.

Cabinet observed that the successful execution of the four-day meeting showcased Antigua and Barbuda as a premier destination for international conferences and major global events. The country’s ability to accommodate and host the large number of delegates, dignitaries and international representatives demonstrated its capacity to deliver events of significant international importance.

Cabinet further expressed confidence that the hosting of CHOGM would provide lasting benefits to the tourism industry. The international exposure generated by the meeting, together with the positive impressions formed by visiting Heads of Government, delegates and other participants, is expected to strengthen the country’s profile as a destination for conferences, business events and leisure travel. Cabinet noted that the tourism product would be among the major beneficiaries of the successful hosting.

Special commendation was also extended to the hundreds of volunteers and the senior organisers whose dedication, professionalism and commitment contributed to the smooth execution of the meeting and its associated activities. Cabinet recognised the important role played by these individuals in welcoming visitors, facilitating logistics and ensuring that delegates experienced the warmth and hospitality for which Antigua and Barbuda is known.

Cabinet noted that the successful hosting of CHOGM was a national achievement, reflecting effective coordination, teamwork and the collective effort of the many agencies, organisations and individuals involved.

The Government expressed gratitude to all who contributed to making CHOGM 2026 a memorable success and affirmed that the country intends to build on the international recognition and opportunities generated by hosting the Commonwealth’s leaders.

CABINET AGREES IN PRINCIPLE TO 75-CENT BUS FARE INCREASE; APPROVES INTERIM SUPPORT FOR OPERATORS

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Friday met with representatives of the Antigua and Barbuda Bus Association to discuss the Association’s request for an increase of 75 cents across the board in public bus fares.

Following discussions, Cabinet advised the Association that the Government agrees in principle to the proposed increase. However, Cabinet has requested additional time to assess the potential impact of the adjustment on consumers, particularly those who depend on public transportation for their daily travel.

The Government anticipates that the 75-cent increase will be implemented early in January 2027, following further assessment and consultations with the relevant stakeholders.

In the interim, Cabinet has approved a number of measures intended to provide immediate assistance to bus operators and help ease the financial pressures associated with operating public transportation services.

Cabinet agreed to provide bus operators with a fuel subsidy of $6 per gallon, for up to 10 gallons. This measure is intended to offer direct relief to operators while discussions continue on the proposed fare adjustment.

Cabinet also agreed that one of the two new service stations to be commissioned by the West Indies Oil Company (WIOC) will be allocated to the Bus Association for its management. The arrangement is expected to provide the Association with an additional opportunity to participate in the fuel distribution sector and support the sustainability of its members’ operations.

Ministry of Finance officials have been instructed to meet with the Bus Association and other relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry responsible for Transportation, to further examine the proposed fare adjustment and its implications for commuters and operators.

The latest discussions build on Cabinet’s earlier decision to establish a committee to review proposals submitted by both the Bus Association and the Ministry responsible for Transport concerning the public transportation fare structure.

That review was established in recognition of the increasing costs faced by bus operators, including expenditure on fuel, vehicle maintenance, spare parts, insurance, labour and vehicle replacement. It also seeks to balance the financial viability of public transportation services with the need to protect passengers from additional cost-of-living pressures.

The committee was asked to examine, among other matters, proposed phased adjustments to standard bus fares, possible fares for designated public holidays and existing subsidized transportation arrangements for primary school children wearing their official school uniforms. It is required to submit its findings and recommendations to Cabinet within 90 days.

Cabinet’s latest decisions demonstrate the Government’s willingness to work with the Bus Association to address the legitimate concerns of operators while ensuring that any adjustment to public transportation fares takes account of the financial circumstances of commuters.

The Government remains committed to maintaining a reliable and sustainable public transportation system that serves the needs of bus operators, passengers and the wider community.

CABINET ALLOCATES $17 MILLION FOR THE UPGRADE OF COMMUNITY SPORTING COMPLEXES

Cabinet has agreed to an allocation of EC$17 million for the upgrading and improvement of community sporting complexes throughout Antigua and Barbuda, in recognition of the importance of accessible sporting facilities to national sports development and community advancement.

The allocation will be incorporated into the Government’s 2027 Budget Estimates, providing for a coordinated programme of improvements to sporting facilities across the country.

Cabinet recognised that community sporting complexes are essential to the development of athletes, the promotion of healthy lifestyles and the provision of safe spaces for young people to participate in organised sports and recreational activities. The planned upgrades are intended to strengthen the infrastructure available to sporting organisations, schools and communities, while creating improved opportunities for training, competition and talent development.

In considering the importance of investment in sporting infrastructure, Cabinet also commended Sir David Harrison for his contribution towards the construction of the Harrison Potters Sports Centre. The facility is expected to become one of the most transformative investments in sports development in Antigua and Barbuda, providing an important resource for athletes and the wider community.

Cabinet’s decision to allocate EC$17 million reflects the Government’s recognition that investment in sports must extend beyond major national facilities to include the sporting complexes located within communities. The initiative forms part of the Government’s wider commitment to expanding opportunities for young people, strengthening community life and advancing the development of sports throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

PRIME MINISTER BROWNE UPDATES CABINET ON HIS DISCUSSIONS WITH INDIA’S EXTERNAL AFFAIRS MINISTER ON EXPANDING COOPERATION IN TRADE, FOOD SECURITY, HEALTHCARE AND RENEWABLE ENERGY

Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne updated the Cabinet on the bilateral discussions with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who was in Antigua and Barbuda to participate in the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The meeting provided an opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding friendship between Antigua and Barbuda and India and to explore practical areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening trade, investment and development partnerships between the two countries.

Prime Minister Browne advised the cabinet that he expressed appreciation for India’s longstanding support to Antigua and Barbuda, recalling the assistance provided during the COVID-19 pandemic, when India made vaccines available to countries across the Caribbean, including approximately 40,000 doses to Antigua and Barbuda. He said he thanked the Indian Government for its contribution to the logistical arrangements for CHOGM, particularly the provision of transportation support that helped accommodate the thousands of delegates attending the meeting.

The Prime Minister noted that India had remained a dependable development partner since the establishment of diplomatic relations and expressed the Government’s desire to elevate the relationship through greater trade and investment. He proposed the development of a trade and investment agreement, supported by arrangements for investment protection and the avoidance of double taxation, to encourage greater commercial engagement between the two countries.

In discussing trade opportunities, Prime Minister Browne said that he identified agricultural and farming equipment, food-processing machinery, packaging technology and other competitively priced Indian products as areas of potential interest. He indicated that Antigua and Barbuda was seeking to diversify its sources of imports and strengthen its capacity to produce, process and preserve more food locally.

The Prime Minister reported that food security featured prominently in the discussions. He explained that Antigua and Barbuda experiences seasonal surpluses of agricultural produce, particularly mangoes, which are often lost because of limited local processing and preservation facilities.

He indicated that he had requested technical assistance from India to strengthen the country’s food-processing capacity, including training in preservation techniques and access to appropriate equipment. The Indian External Affairs Minister responded positively and proposed that India support the establishment of a model mango-processing facility through grant assistance. An Indian technical team would visit Antigua and Barbuda to assess the opportunities, recommend suitable processing technologies and identify the equipment and training required.

The Prime Minister further advised Cabinet that the Indian Minister suggested extending the initiative to root crops, including cassava and sweet potatoes, which could be processed into flour and other value-added products. The proposed model could demonstrate the viability of small-scale processing enterprises and encourage private-sector investment in similar facilities.

Prime Minister Browne welcomed the proposal, noting that improved processing and preservation would help reduce agricultural waste, strengthen domestic food production and advance national food and nutrition security.

The Prime Minister also updated Cabinet on discussions aimed at expanding cooperation in healthcare. He reported that India had indicated its willingness to provide Antigua and Barbuda with two sea ambulances equipped with medical facilities, as well as two field-hospital kits designed to support emergency and trauma care, particularly during disasters and other emergencies. The assistance is to be provided as a grant.

Cabinet was advised that arrangements would be pursued to formalise the proposed assistance and facilitate its implementation.

The discussions also explored the establishment of a more structured arrangement for Antiguans and Barbudans requiring specialised medical treatment in India. The Indian Minister indicated that both countries could work towards a formal agreement that would provide patients with an additional option for accessing specialised healthcare services.

The Prime Minister further proposed that a professional medical team assess the country’s healthcare infrastructure, including the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, to identify areas in which Indian expertise, technology and investment could support improvements. He expressed particular interest in advanced medical procedures, including robotic surgery, and the possible involvement of private Indian healthcare providers.

The Prime Minister reported that education and capacity building were also discussed, with particular emphasis on the need for additional mathematics teachers and improved teaching methodologies to strengthen student performance in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

He expressed interest in exploring opportunities for Indian teachers to support the secondary school system and for the introduction of smart technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance teaching and learning.

Cabinet was also informed that renewable energy development featured in the discussions. The Prime Minister highlighted the potential for India to provide technical expertise to accelerate Antigua and Barbuda’s transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, particularly through the expansion of solar energy.

He also pointed to opportunities for regional cooperation through the International Solar Alliance, of which India is a member, noting that technical assistance could benefit Antigua and Barbuda and other countries within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States as they pursue renewable energy projects and seek to reduce their dependence on imported fossil fuels.

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of broadening Antigua and Barbuda’s international partnerships and creating additional opportunities for trade, investment and technical cooperation. He expressed confidence that India could become an increasingly important economic and development partner, particularly in areas where its expertise, technology and manufacturing capacity could address the needs of small island developing states.

He reported that the Indian External Affairs Minister welcomed the proposals and reaffirmed India’s willingness to deepen cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda. Technical teams and relevant institutions could be engaged to advance the areas discussed, particularly food processing, healthcare and capacity building.

The discussions also included an exchange on the successful hosting of CHOGM 2026 and the Commonwealth’s continuing efforts to advance reparatory justice and strengthen cooperation among member states.

Prime Minister Browne expressed appreciation for India’s continued friendship and support and indicated that he looked forward to visiting India in the first quarter of 2027, when further discussions could help advance the proposed development partnership.

Cabinet was advised that both sides had expressed a shared commitment to translating the discussions into practical initiatives that would strengthen bilateral relations and deliver tangible benefits to the people of Antigua and Barbuda and India.

Cabinet Reviews Proposal for Major Solar Energy and Battery Storage Project at Potworks

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has received a presentation from China CAMC Engineering Co., Ltd. (CAMCE), outlining a proposed major renewable energy development at Potworks aimed at strengthening the country’s electricity generation capacity and accelerating the national transition from fossil fuels to cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy.

The proposed Potworks Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Storage Project involves the installation of a 30-megawatt peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic facility, supported by a 15-megawatt (MW), 30-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system.

The presentation outlined a large-scale solar installation comprising approximately 48,384 solar panels, each with a capacity of 620 watts, together with 54 inverters rated at 460 kilowatts each.

According to the preliminary proposal, the solar facility could generate approximately 49.5 to 54 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity annually, providing an important additional source of renewable energy for Antigua and Barbuda.

The battery storage component is designed to store electricity generated during daylight hours for use during periods of increased demand, particularly in the evening. The proposed system would have a nominal storage duration of two hours at its rated output, helping to improve electricity supply management and support greater integration of renewable energy into the national electricity grid.

Cabinet was informed that the proposed development could contribute to reducing the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering exposure to fluctuations in international fuel prices and strengthening long-term energy security.

Following its review of the presentation, Cabinet advised the representatives of China CAMC Engineering Co., Ltd. to engage directly with the management of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) to undertake further technical discussions and develop a comprehensive proposal for Cabinet’s consideration.

The comprehensive submission is expected to address the technical specifications, financial arrangements, project implementation schedule, grid integration requirements, operational considerations and anticipated economic benefits of the proposed investment.

Cabinet emphasized that the involvement of APUA is essential to ensuring that any proposed renewable energy development is compatible with the country’s existing electricity infrastructure and supports the Authority’s long-term electricity generation and distribution strategy.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda continues to pursue opportunities to diversify the national energy mix through investments in solar power, battery storage and other renewable energy technologies.

The proposed Potworks development forms part of these wider efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuel generation, strengthen energy resilience and support the country’s environmental and sustainable development objectives.

Cabinet noted that increasing renewable electricity generation, supported by modern energy storage technologies, could also contribute to greater stability in electricity production and help manage the long-term costs associated with power generation.

Cabinet has not granted final approval for the proposed project. Further consideration will follow the submission of a comprehensive technical and financial proposal developed in consultation with APUA.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: CABINET NOTES: Friday 6TH November 2026.