Local News
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Government Launches Major Dam Projects to Strengthen Food Security
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a major agricultural water infrastructure programme, with a new dam nearing completion in Table Hill Gordon and a flagship project underway in Bethesda. The initiative aims to improve irrigation, boost domestic food production, and reduce the country's reliance on food imports.
Cabinet Approves Official Funeral for Sir Aziz Hadeed, Hailing Him a National Loss
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved an Official Funeral for the late Sir Aziz Hadeed, honouring the businessman, philanthropist, and former senator as a profound national loss. The announcement followed Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, at which government officials issued an extensive tribute to his life and legacy.
Three Armed Men Sought After Daylight Home Robbery in Carty's Hill
Three armed and masked men robbed a Carty's Hill residence in broad daylight on May 28, making off with a mobile phone, a DVR system, and a safe containing cash and ammunition. Police are appealing to the public for information as investigations continue.
Cuban Ambassador Calls for Caribbean Solidarity Amid Escalating US Blockade
Cuba's Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda has called on Caribbean nations to stand in solidarity with Cuba, citing escalating US economic measures he describes as tantamount to genocide, including efforts to block oil imports and the doubling of Cuba's infant mortality rate. The appeal, as reported by Antigua.news, follows an open debate at the United Nations Security Council focused on upholding the principles of the UN Charter.
Governor General Boards Indian Naval Vessel in Show of Bilateral Goodwill
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams boarded the Indian Naval Ship Sudarshini on Thursday during an official courtesy call, highlighting the strengthening diplomatic ties between Antigua and Barbuda and India. The visit, facilitated by Honorary Consul Vijay Tewani, reaffirmed mutual commitments to maritime cooperation, cultural exchange, and international partnership.
Governor General Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Sir Aziz Hadeed, 'A Remarkable Son of the Soil'
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams has paid an emotional tribute to the late Sir Aziz Fares Hadeed, describing him as a national icon, nation builder, and a lifelong personal friend whose passing leaves a profound void in Antigua and Barbuda.
Thirteen GRACE Programme Graduates Celebrated at 'Serving with Dignity' Ceremony
Thirteen caregivers graduated Thursday from Antigua and Barbuda's GRACE Programme, a government initiative providing professional in-home care for elderly and disabled citizens. The ceremony at the Zion Church of God featured remarks from Senator Angelica O'Donoghue, who urged graduates to serve as champions of dignity and compassion.
US$200M Zen Resort Breaks Ground at Long Bay with AI Butlers and Underwater Chapel
The Ediacaran Group has broken ground on the US$200 million Long Bay Zen Resort in Antigua, a 113-key luxury property featuring an AI butler service and an underwater chapel, with government backing and construction set to accelerate later this year.
ABLP Hails Samantha Marshall's Appointment as Ambassador-at-Large
The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party has congratulated Samantha Marshall, an Attorney-at-Law and former Parliamentarian, on her appointment as Ambassador-at-Large. The party praised her years of dedicated public service and expressed confidence in her ability to represent the nation with distinction.
Antigua and Barbuda to Offer Free Corneal Surgeries in New US Partnership
Antigua and Barbuda is finalising a partnership with US-based World Eye Mission to provide free corneal replacement surgeries locally, with the programme expected to begin with five procedures. The initiative aims to reduce the need for costly overseas medical travel and expand specialist eye care services on island.
Dangerous Overtaking Manoeuvre on Airport Road Caught on Video
A driver in an orange Honda Fit RS was caught on video overtaking three vehicles using a lane designated for oncoming traffic on Airport Road, forcing a white van to swerve sharply to avoid a collision. The footage has circulated widely on social media, prompting public calls for stricter traffic law enforcement.
UWI Five Islands Campus Mourns Sudden Loss of Counsellor and Musical Director Dr. Renee Smith
Dr. Renee Smith, Campus Counsellor and Musical Director of The UWI FIC Singers, died suddenly Thursday morning at the age of 48. Her passing has prompted widespread grief across Antigua and Barbuda's educational and cultural communities.
Cabinet Approves Specialised Autism Centre to Expand Care Nationwide
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the establishment of a specialised Cognitive Behavioral Centre to provide comprehensive autism and neurodivergent care, with specialist recruitment already underway. The facility will offer services ranging from occupational therapy to neurological psychology for both children and adults.
Letter: Cannabis Charge Withdrawal Sparks Public Outcry Over Equal Justice
The withdrawal of drug trafficking charges against Canadian national Roselynee Crisostomo — allegedly found with over 67 pounds of cannabis at V.C. Bird International Airport — has prompted a public letter demanding answers from the Director of Public Prosecutions over what many see as unequal treatment under the law. As reported by Antigua.news, the charges were dropped for undisclosed medical reasons, drawing sharp criticism from citizens who argue that locals face far harsher consequences for far smaller offences.
Antigua and Barbuda Demands Fairer Climate Finance Ahead of UN Bonn Talks
Antigua and Barbuda's Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs Honourable Michael Joseph has called on major emitting nations to accelerate emissions cuts and reform climate financing systems at an AOSIS forum ahead of UN talks in Bonn. The minister warned that limited implementation capacity continues to hinder the country's ability to deliver critical climate resilience projects, despite eligibility for up to US$250 million through the Green Climate Fund.
Butterfield to Acquire CIBC Caribbean in Landmark $1.8 Billion Deal
Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Limited has announced a definitive agreement to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a deal valued at approximately US$1.8 billion, creating a combined banking group with roughly US$29 billion in assets. The transaction, subject to regulatory approval, is set to become one of the most consequential banking mergers in Caribbean financial history.
Antigua Expands National Surveillance Network with 200+ Cameras to Strengthen Security
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is rolling out a phased installation of more than 200 security cameras nationwide to enhance crime prevention, support investigations, and modernise national security operations. Minister Melford Nicholas presented the update, confirming the Royal Police Force has already begun deployments at strategic locations.
Antigua Cabinet Appoints Marshall and Massiah as Ambassadors-at-Large
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has named former minister Samantha Marshall and former opposition senator Joanne Massiah as Ambassadors-at-Large, as the government reorganises its diplomatic corps to better align with national priorities.
Night Detour Set for All Saints Road as Infrastructure Works Begin Thursday
The Ministry of Works has announced a temporary nighttime traffic detour along All Saints Road from 7:00 p.m. on May 28 to 7:00 a.m. the following morning, as infrastructure works advance between the Belmont Clinic and the Bellevue Heights Service Station. Flag persons and signage will guide motorists, with local access and businesses remaining unaffected.
Choir Director and Educator Dr. Renee Smith Dead at 48
Dr. Renee Smith, celebrated director of the National Youth Choir and founder of the UWI Five Islands Singers, has died at the age of 48. Tributes are pouring in from across Antigua and Barbuda and the wider region for the educator and musician.