The Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Center (GARD Center) has wrapped up its stakeholder consultations on gender integration in Antigua and Barbuda's National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), culminating in a national validation workshop held at Sherlock Hall, Methodist Church Conference Centre, St. John's, on June 23, 2026.
According to Antigua News Room, the workshop presented findings aimed at supporting the integration of gender considerations into the country's NBSAP. The initiative was supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and implemented by GARD Center. Three participants from Barbuda travelled to Antigua to take part in the session.
Peter Mokwe, a Gender Specialist from UNDP, and Ato Lewis, a Specialist from the Department of Environment, both delivered remarks at the session. Their contributions underscored the importance of validating the findings, which will inform the development of a Gender and Biodiversity Action Plan.
The consultation was facilitated by Refica Attwood, assistant to the national consultant. Attwood presented the findings and guided participants in identifying remaining gaps following the diagnostic phase. Participants also prioritized and ranked key gender and biodiversity issues, and identified strategies and approaches for gender mainstreaming.
Feedback gathered throughout the consultation process will feed directly into the development of the Gender and Biodiversity Action Plan.
Organisers expressed appreciation to all participants for their contributions to advancing inclusive and sustainable biodiversity planning in Antigua and Barbuda. They also encouraged those who were unable to attend to contribute to the national effort by reaching out directly to the GARD Center.
