More than 800 people have expressed interest in volunteering for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), as Antigua and Barbuda intensifies preparations for one of the largest international events in the nation's history.
According to Antigua News Room, the update was delivered to Cabinet by High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Karen-Mae Hill and Director General of Foreign Affairs Ann-Marie Layne during a comprehensive briefing on the country's readiness for the summit, scheduled for November 2026.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said preparations are advancing across key areas including logistics, security, transportation, accommodation, protocol and event management. Strong international interest in the meeting has already been noted, with several delegations finalizing accommodation arrangements while others continue to complete their travel plans.
A significant number of heads of government and senior officials from across the Commonwealth are expected to attend, placing Antigua and Barbuda at the centre of international attention. Invitations have also drawn positive responses from major international organizations and development partners.
Merchant noted that volunteer recruitment has attracted considerable public enthusiasm, with approximately 800 individuals indicating their willingness to assist during the event. More than 130 delegation liaison officers have also been identified to provide direct support to visiting delegations. Training programmes for volunteers and support personnel will continue in the months leading up to the summit.
Preparations carry added significance as they coincide with an anticipated state visit by King Charles III. Merchant confirmed that the King is expected to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the same period and is also scheduled to travel to Barbuda as part of the visit. Preparations for both CHOGM and the royal visit have entered a heightened phase as government agencies continue their planning and coordination efforts.
Officials say the summit will bring leaders from across the Commonwealth to Antigua and Barbuda, providing a major opportunity to showcase the twin-island nation on the global stage and strengthen its standing within the international community.
