Minister of Social and Urban Transformation Hon. Rawdon Turner and Minister of State Hon. Kiz Johnson met Tuesday with representatives of the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) to explore collaboration on Antigua and Barbuda's sustainable development priorities.
The meeting, facilitated by Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Hon. Michael Freeland, focused on identifying areas where SMI can provide support to Antigua and Barbuda while also laying groundwork for partnership ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026, which the twin-island nation will host later this year.
Minister Turner outlined several priority areas requiring technical expertise, investment, and strategic partnerships. Chief among them was the need to address longstanding challenges with sewage treatment infrastructure in St. John's.
"The modernization of sewage treatment systems is critical to the continued development of our capital city and the protection of public health and the environment," Turner said, articulating the Government's vision for a more resilient and sustainable urban landscape.
Turner also raised the importance of creating accessible urban corridors and improving infrastructure to make St. John's more disability-friendly. He sought technical assistance and guidance on implementing international best practices to improve mobility, inclusivity, and quality of life for residents and visitors.
Coastal erosion and beach deterioration across Antigua and Barbuda emerged as another major focus. The Minister requested consultancy support to identify practical, science-based solutions for protecting the nation's coastlines — among its most valuable natural assets.
The SMI delegation was led by Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Jordan-Saifi, accompanied by members of her communications team. Jordan-Saifi welcomed the engagement and expressed the Initiative's willingness to explore avenues for meaningful support.
She indicated that SMI would assess the areas discussed and determine how assistance could be mobilised through grant funding, concessional financing, technical expertise, or strategic partnerships.
The meeting reflects the Government's broader push to secure international collaboration as it pursues solutions to national development challenges and prepares to welcome world leaders for CHOGM 2026.
