Local News
3991 articles
Antigua and Barbuda Delegation Advances Blue Economy Agenda at Tokyo Ocean Summit
Antigua and Barbuda is attending the Island States Ocean Summit 2026 in Tokyo, where Minister of Fisheries and the Blue Economy Anthony Shamari Smith Jr. is leading a national delegation to advance ocean governance, climate resilience and sustainable fisheries on the global stage.
Minister Browne's Road Works Push Reshapes Infrastructure Across Antigua
Road works are expanding across Antigua and Barbuda under Housing Minister Maria Browne, with major projects on All Saints Road, Newgate Street, and numerous communities island-wide. Opinion contributor Justin Preston argues the sustained momentum, continuing even after elections, reflects a meaningful shift in infrastructure delivery and government accountability.
Butch Stewart Family Resolves Post-Death Disputes, Unites Behind Sandals Legacy
The family of the late Sandals and Beaches Group founder Gordon 'Butch' Stewart has announced it has resolved internal disputes that arose following his death in January 2021. The family expressed excitement about the continued growth of Stewart's hospitality legacy.
Antigua and Barbuda Suspends Visa Waivers for All Travelers Departing Africa
Antigua and Barbuda has suspended visa waivers for all travelers departing from African countries and will deny entry visas to anyone who has recently visited regions affected by Ebola or other serious viral outbreaks. The measures, announced following the May 27 Cabinet meeting, include the reinstallation of thermal cameras at V.C. Bird International Airport and enhanced coordination among border agencies.
Minister Baltimore Elected Chair of Caribbean Regional Fisheries Council
Antigua and Barbuda's Minister of State Hon. Randy Baltimore has been elected Chair of the CRFM Ministerial Council, assuming leadership of the CARICOM regional fisheries body. The Council's twentieth meeting produced 19 resolutions, a new five-year aquaculture action plan, and a 2026–2027 work plan and budget.
Performing Arts Centre on Track for September Completion Ahead of CHOGM
Minister Rawdon Turner says the new Performing Arts Centre is on track for completion by the end of September, with balcony seating the last major construction phase remaining. The 875-seat venue is set to host the opening of CHOGM 2026 in November before becoming a permanent cultural facility.
Festivals Commission Calls for Carnival Parade Marshal Volunteers Ahead of June 15 Deadline
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission is recruiting community volunteers to serve as parade marshals during this year's Carnival celebrations, with the application deadline set for June 15. Selected volunteers will receive training, official gear and practical event management experience.
High Court Weighs Landmark Ruling on Barbuda Airport Development
A High Court judge is now considering arguments in a landmark case challenging the legality of the Barbuda airport development, after environmental activist John Mussington and Barbuda Council member Jackie Frank completed their court proceedings this week. The ruling could have significant implications for environmental protections and development approvals across Antigua and Barbuda.
ABCA Sets June 15 Accreditation Deadline for West Indies-Sri Lanka Test Series
The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association has announced that accreditation will be mandatory for all service personnel at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium during the West Indies vs. Sri Lanka Test Series, with a submission deadline of June 15, 2026. The two-match series is scheduled for late June and early July 2026.
Barbuda Airport Legal Challenge Heads to Judgment After Full High Court Hearing
Environmental activist John Mussington and Barbuda Council member Jackie Frank are awaiting a High Court ruling after the full hearing of their legal challenge against the Barbuda airport development, which they allege proceeded without proper environmental approvals or public consultation. The case, backed by the Global Legal Action Network, follows a landmark 2024 Privy Council ruling that affirmed their legal standing to bring the challenge.
Minister George Meets Carnival Committees as Antigua Ramps Up Preparations for 2026 Festival
Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George has met with the Festivals Commission and its subcommittees to accelerate planning for Carnival 2026, pledging government support for what is expected to be one of the country's largest carnival celebrations in recent years.
U.S. Tourism Delegation Visits Barbuda to Explore Culture and Industry Ties
A U.S. tourism delegation visited Barbuda on May 27, meeting with local farmers, beekeepers and fisheries representatives as part of efforts to strengthen tourism partnerships and promote the island's cultural and economic offerings.
Charity Dublin Named President of Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association
The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association has named Charity Dublin as president, introducing its new executive team for the 2025–2027 term. The leadership will focus on diabetes awareness, prevention, education, and community outreach across the country.
Youth Ambassador Makiba Ward Completes Leadership Exchange Programme in China
National Youth Ambassador Makiba O. Ward has returned from a two-week leadership exchange seminar in China, where she represented Antigua and Barbuda alongside youth leaders from Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and Latin America. The programme, held from May 19 to June 1, focused on youth development, entrepreneurship, and international cooperation.
Fernandez Pushes for Cheaper Intra-Regional Airfares at Caribbean Tourism Forum
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez used a regional ministerial panel during Caribbean Week in New York to call for lower intra-regional airfares and greater collaboration among Caribbean governments to drive tourism growth.
Antigua and Barbuda Delegation Attends Global Ocean Summit in Japan
Antigua and Barbuda's delegation, led by Minister Anthony Smith Jr., is attending a two-day international ocean summit in Japan, advocating for climate resilience support and stronger ocean protections for Small Island Developing States.
Urgent Call for Blood Donors to Support Anouchka Prince of Mount St. John's
An urgent appeal has been issued for blood donors with types A+, A-, O+, and O- to assist Anouchka Prince of Mount St. John's. Those willing to donate or seeking more information are asked to contact 772-1588.
Free HPV Screening Available to Barbuda Women Through Health Clinic
The Ministry of Health is calling on eligible women in Barbuda to access free HPV screening services available at the Barbuda Health and Wellness Clinic. The programme aims to promote early detection of cervical cancer and improve women's health outcomes nationwide.
CDEMA Director Meets Antigua Ministers to Bolster Regional Disaster Preparedness
CDEMA Executive Director Elizabeth Riley met with Ministers Rawdon Turner and Kiz Johnson on Wednesday to advance discussions on regional disaster management cooperation. The visit includes field assessments and the anticipated signing of a five-year Country Work Programme for Antigua and Barbuda.
Minister Calls for Tight Coordination as Carnival 2026 Planning Gets Underway
Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George has met with Festivals Committee members to advance preparations for Carnival 2026, emphasising the need for proper coordination across all areas of the event. The minister pledged to put the necessary systems and structures in place to ensure a safe and memorable celebration.