By Dr. Isaac Newton

Antigua and Barbuda welcomed the world. Now its people must see lasting benefits from that historic gathering. CHOGM opened doors to investment, climate financing, trade, youth opportunities and stronger international relationships. But announcements do not create jobs, build businesses or protect coastlines. Results require money, clear priorities, responsible leadership and follow-through. The Government should establish a 12-Month CHOGM Legacy and Delivery Plan, identifying specific targets, responsible ministries, funding arrangements and deadlines. Citizens should be able to see what was promised, what was secured, what is being delivered and who is answerable for the results.

The plan should focus on improvements people can recognise in their daily lives. Are new investments creating jobs? Are young people gaining access to training, business financing and employment? Is climate funding reaching vulnerable communities? Are renewable energy projects helping to reduce electricity costs? Every priority should have a measurable target and an accountable ministry. Progress should be published every three months, giving Parliament, businesses, civil society and citizens the opportunity to examine results and demand corrective action. As Commonwealth Chair-in-Office, the Prime Minister also has an opportunity to keep these commitments alive and advance Antigua and Barbuda’s interests internationally.

The opportunity extends to the entire Caribbean. CARICOM should use the CHOGM outcomes to strengthen regional cooperation in climate protection, food security, renewable energy, digital development, maritime security and youth employment. Governments can develop joint investment proposals, coordinate negotiations and pursue opportunities that individual countries might struggle to secure alone. Antigua can demonstrate what effective follow-through looks like. CARICOM can help extend those benefits across the region. A summit lasts four days. Its true value should be measured in the opportunities it creates for generations. The Caribbean has earned a place at the table. Its people deserve a meaningful share of what that table can deliver.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a leadership strategist, governance scholar and author specializing in institutional excellence, ethical leadership and human development. Educated at the University of the Southern Caribbean, Oakwood University, Princeton, Columbia and Harvard, he writes on leadership, governance and the development of people and institutions. He is the author of Fix It Preacher, Face Life Squarely and Intimate Intimacy, and co-author of Steps to Good Governance, Daring to Hope, When Nations Kneel and The Belief Code.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: AFTER CHOGM: Antigua’s Opportunity, The Caribbean’s Responsibility.