Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended the government's push to raise Antigua and Barbuda's festival production standards, insisting the drive to "level up" is about national progress rather than sidelining any individual service provider.
Speaking on his weekly radio programme Saturday, Browne addressed the controversy surrounding plans to acquire a new sound system for major national events, including Carnival and One Nation. He said the matter has been under discussion for years and that the government's goal is to elevate stage and sound production quality as the country positions itself as an international destination for festivals and conferences.
"We are leveling up. It is not a derogatory term and it is not about being ungrateful to anyone who has provided services in the past," Browne said. "It is about improving standards so that Antigua and Barbuda can compete internationally."
The Prime Minister revealed that the government has already purchased a new stage measuring approximately 119 feet long and more than 60 feet wide. The structure is designed to improve performances at Panorama and other major events, and is expected to arrive within two weeks. It will replace the traditional wooden stages previously used at the Recreation Ground.
Browne argued the investment makes strong financial sense. "The stage could last a decade or more, and when you amortize the cost over several years, it makes more financial sense than rebuilding wooden stages every year," he said.
The Prime Minister also addressed pushback from local sound provider Whitney Williams, who has publicly objected to government discussions about acquiring its own system. Browne said no final decision has been made, but warned that if local providers fail to submit satisfactory proposals, the administration will move forward with a purchase.
"We are not afraid to buy our own system if necessary," he said. "It would actually cost the people of Antigua and Barbuda less over time."
He added that discussions have taken place with local industry figures about upgrading existing equipment through partnerships or government financing.
Browne pointed to the recent Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference as a case in point, noting the country was forced to bring in overseas production services at a cost exceeding US$1 million because local systems did not meet international requirements. He warned that future events may demand similar standards as Antigua and Barbuda seeks to attract large global productions.
"If these smaller islands in the OECS can provide better sound and better stages for their music festivals, then Antigua and Barbuda should not remain at the same level," Browne said.
The Prime Minister stressed the government remains willing to collaborate with local providers, but was firm that the country cannot afford to stand still. "If you fail to level up, you will be left behind — not because we want to leave anyone behind, but because the country must continue to advance."
Cabinet is expected to review any proposals submitted by local sound operators in the coming week before determining the next steps on the acquisition of a national sound system.
