Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called on leaders across Africa and the Caribbean to overhaul their economic systems, arguing that both regions must prioritise local development over external interests. According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the remarks while welcoming a delegation led by Nwachukwu Anakwenze, regent of the Abagana Kingdom in Nigeria's Anambra State, who was visiting ahead of his installation as king.
Browne told the delegation that both regions were historically shaped into "extractive economies" through slavery and colonialism, with wealth consistently flowing outward rather than benefiting local populations. He argued that Africa's natural resources and Caribbean agriculture had long fuelled prosperity abroad while leaving their own people underdeveloped.
"We have not reached our full potential," Browne said, urging coordinated action to redesign economic structures and ensure greater local ownership.
The Prime Minister pointed to his government's decision to block the sale of local banking operations by Canadian institutions to foreign buyers as a concrete example of this philosophy in action. He insisted those assets instead be transferred to local ownership — a move he acknowledged drew criticism at the time but which he said has since strengthened the sector.
Browne stressed that bold leadership would be essential to resist entrenched interests and drive meaningful reform.
"This is the time for courage," he said. "We must remain resolute in making decisions that serve our people."
He added that transitioning toward "productive economies" — where wealth is generated and reinvested locally — would be central to achieving long-term development for both regions.
Browne also expressed enthusiasm for deepening ties with African leaders and indicated he hopes to visit the Abagana Kingdom in the near future.
