Antigua and Barbuda's National Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) Taskforce held a joint meeting with representatives of the Commonwealth Secretariat to deliver a comprehensive update on preparations for CHOGM 2026.
Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom and CHOGM Focal Point, chaired the session on behalf of Taskforce Chairman, the Honourable E.P. Chet Greene. Senior officials including Mrs Ann-Marie Layne, Director General, and Ms Sharon Stevens, Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, were in attendance — underscoring the whole-of-government approach driving preparations.
The meeting centred on planning for two Advance Visits scheduled for April 28–29 and May 5–6, 2026, in St. John's. These visits will bring delegations from across the Commonwealth to assess logistics and operational readiness ahead of the Heads of Government Meeting in November 2026.
The National CHOGM Taskforce presented detailed briefings covering the proposed agenda and structure of the Advance Visits, including site inspections of key venues and coordination mechanisms for visiting delegations. Updates were also provided on accommodation arrangements, with particular focus on block bookings, delegate experience, and coordination protocols. Progress in communications and media planning — aimed at ensuring global visibility for CHOGM 2026 — was also outlined.
Commonwealth Secretariat representatives welcomed the progress achieved to date and reaffirmed their continued support for Antigua and Barbuda in delivering a successful and impactful meeting.
Antigua and Barbuda will host CHOGM 2026 from November 1–4, 2026, under the theme "Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth."
