The prayers before Cabinet were led by A Pastor from the Salvation Army, whose meditation centred on Psalm 127:1
“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”
The psalm reminds us that human effort, no matter how well planned or diligently executed, is ultimately incomplete without God’s guidance and blessing. It calls us to examine the foundations upon which we build our lives, our work, and our institutions. Success is not measured merely by activity or achievement, but by alignment with God’s will.
The Pastor noted that this verse encourages humility and dependence on God. It teaches that when we invite God into our plans—whether in leadership, family, or daily responsibilities—our labour gains meaning and endurance. Without Him, even our best efforts can become exhausting and unfulfilling. With Him, our work is established, protected, and fruitful.
The Pastor placed each member of the Cabinet before God and prayed that they will make their decisions guided by Him. She prayed for God’s blessings on them and the nation of Antigua and Barbuda .
1. Cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne who commenced the Cabinet meeting by providing members with an update on a number of meeting engagements.
During the session, Cabinet received detailed updates on the ongoing monitoring and enforcement of price reductions on essential goods following recent duty and tax concessions, with a particular focus on fruits, vegetables, and other basic food items aimed at improving affordability and encouraging healthier consumption.
Officials from the Princes and Consumer Affairs Division reported that price reductions are already visible in several categories, particularly for fresh fruits and vegetables, which are imported frequently and therefore reflect changes more quickly. In contrast, preserved and less frequently imported items, such as canned goods, are expected to show price adjustments over a longer period, extending into the coming weeks and months.
Cabinet was informed that inspection teams have been actively monitoring supermarkets and retail outlets across the island to assess compliance. While some retailers, particularly within major supermarket chains, have demonstrated partial compliance, inspectors have encountered reluctance from several suppliers and retailers to provide invoices and pricing documentation, despite this being a legal requirement under existing legislation. Officials noted that only a limited number of suppliers have cooperated fully to date.
During the discussions, Cabinet acknowledged challenges associated with enforcement under the existing Prices Control Act, which dates back to 1957 and requires lengthy court processes. Cabinet therefore emphasized the importance of strengthening enforcement mechanisms through the Consumer Protection framework, including the expedited establishment of a Consumer Protection Tribunal, which would allow for faster resolution of breaches and more immediate sanctions.
Cabinet noted that penalties for non-compliance currently range from $5,000 to $10,000 for failure to provide required information, and up to $25,000 for serious price-related breaches. Cabinet also discussed the need to increase fines, expand the list of price-controlled goods, and consider stronger measures, including the withdrawal or suspension of business licences, to ensure compliance and protect consumers.
Officials highlighted that duty reductions of up to 40 percent on certain fruits and vegetables represent significant concessions, and Cabinet expressed concern that these savings are not being consistently passed on to consumers. Cabinet reiterated that the Government’s objective is to ensure affordability of healthy foods and to prevent excessive mark-ups that undermine public policy efforts to address the cost of living and improve national health outcomes.
Cabinet also discussed operational challenges faced by price control officers, including resistance and inappropriate conduct by members of the public during inspections. Cabinet emphasized the importance of ensuring that inspectors are supported and protected as they carry out their lawful duties in the public interest.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the regulatory framework governing prices and consumer protection, ensuring fairness in the marketplace, and safeguarding the welfare of consumers. Cabinet underscored that retailers and wholesalers are expected to comply fully with the law and to act responsibly by passing on cost savings to the public in a timely and transparent manner.
2. Cabinet has approved a proposal submitted by the Hon. Attorney General for the relocation of two male juveniles inmates currently housed at His Majesty’s Prison to the Dennis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre in Willikies.
The decision follows an assessment of the proposed accommodation at the rehabilitation facility, conducted in accordance with Cabinet’s directive. The assessment identified specific areas requiring attention to ensure the safety, security, and suitability of the environment for occupancy.
Approved works are intended to support a rehabilitative setting consistent with the welfare and development needs of juvenile residents.
Cabinet also noted that arrangements have been agreed for the provision of meals for the relocated juveniles, while the Prison Administration will retain responsibility for supervision and security at the facility.
In addition, Cabinet approved measures to strengthen transportation and emergency-response coordination between the Dennis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre and His Majesty’s Prison, recognising the importance of timely response and effective operational support.
The approval forms part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to juvenile rehabilitation, public safety, and the enhancement of correctional and social development services across Antigua and Barbuda.
3. Cabinet agreed to a recommendation by the Hon. Minister responsible for Creative Industries, Daryll Matthew that in the interest of further developing the One Nation Concert into a full fledge national festival, that the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission be given a specific remit.
Cabinet therefore agreed that the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission will be solely responsible for the organization and execution of the One Nation Concert and the country’s annual summer festival Carnival.
All other events previously organized and executed by the Festival Commission, to include National Heroes Day and V.C. Bird Day will be the responsibility of the Department of Creative Industries.
Earlier this month, Cabinet commended the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission for the staging of the One Nation Concert stating that it was one of the best organized and executed festivals staged in Antigua and Barbuda.
It stated that the One Nation Concert showcased Antigua and Barbuda’s capacity to deliver world-class cultural events while strengthening community cohesion and enhancing the country’s reputation as a premier destination for entertainment and culture.
4. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has considered a proposal presented by the Director of Agriculture outlining a national approach to achieving a 15 per cent reduction in selected food imports under the CARICOM 25 by 2025 + 5 Initiative.
Cabinet was informed that Antigua and Barbuda has adopted the 15 per cent target as a realistic and achievable milestone toward strengthening food security, improving farmer resilience, and supporting rural employment. The proposal focuses on replacing a portion of imported root crops, vegetables, and livestock products within expanded domestic production.
The presentation identified targeted import substitution across selected crops and livestock, requiring approximately 78 additional acres of crop production and just over 1,200 head of livestock, representing an estimated EC$1.67 million in import value. Priority commodities include onions, tomatoes, sweet peppers, cassava, sweet potato, sheep, and swine.
Cabinet was advised that the proposed strategy is built around production expansion, enhanced farmer support and incentives, improved access to financing and risk management tools, youth engagement and innovation, and strengthened market and value-chain development. Emphasis was also placed on climate-smart and resource-efficient farming practices.
The implementation framework presented outlines a phased approach from 2025 to 2030, beginning with scaled-up production of key vegetables and livestock, followed by expansion into additional crops, and consolidation to ensure sustainability of the import reduction target. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, including quarterly tracking and annual stakeholder reviews, were also outlined.
Cabinet noted the proposal and will continue its consideration of the measures presented by the Director of Agriculture, including the institutional arrangements and resources required to advance the initiative.
5. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received and noted a comprehensive presentation on the proposed Agricultural Development Corporation Agro-Industrial Park (AIP) at Diamonds Estate, a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening national food security, modernizing agricultural production, and supporting economic diversification. Cabinet had agreed to the establishment of this Agro-Industrial Park a few weeks ago.
The presentation outlined the rationale for the Agro-Industrial Park, highlighting structural challenges within the agricultural sector, including supply-chain inconsistencies, limited value addition, and high post-harvest losses. The AIP is intended to address these challenges through a coordinated, commercially driven, and technology-enabled production and processing model.
Cabinet was advised that the Park will be developed in phases and will focus on priority crops such as cassava, sweet potato, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and legumes, with an emphasis on efficient water use, modern irrigation systems, mechanization, and post-harvest management.
The proposed operational framework places strong emphasis on value-added processing, cold storage, and structured market access, including long-term supply arrangements with major domestic buyers, to reduce food imports and improve consistency of supply.
The presentation further detailed a Public-Private Partnership management approach, supported by the establishment of an autonomous management unit under the Ministry of Agriculture to oversee commercial operations, governance, and revenue generation.
Cabinet was also informed of the initiative’s social inclusion component, which provides for incubation plots, shared services, and skills training targeted at youth and women farmers, supporting sustainable livelihoods and capacity building across the sector.
Following the presentation, Cabinet approved the commencement of Phase I of the Agro-Industrial Park and issued directives to ensure timely funding, inter-ministerial collaboration on infrastructure and utilities, and recognition of the project as one of national priority.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to transforming agriculture into a modern, resilient, and commercially viable sector, and views the Agro-Industrial Park as a critical pillar in advancing food and nutrition security for Antigua and Barbuda.
6. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received a presentation on the Agrifood Systems Transformation Policy and Strategy (ASTPS) for Antigua and Barbuda (2023–2030 and beyond), which outlines a comprehensive framework for modernising the national agrifood system and strengthening resilience to climate change.
The presentation, delivered by the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the need to address the existing mismatch between current agricultural practices, food policy objectives, and climate adaptation requirements. Cabinet was informed that while work on the Food Policy commenced in 2024, implementation has fallen behind schedule due to capacity constraints, particularly in specialised climate and sustainability expertise.
The ASTPS proposes a coordinated, whole-of-government approach anchored in governance reform, sustainable financing, climate-smart production, ecosystem management, value-chain development, and digital transformation across the agrifood sector. Emphasis was placed on improving institutional coordination, strengthening accountability, and aligning national actions with regional and international commitments.
The presentation outlined six strategic pillars, including political and institutional innovation, sustainable and innovative financing, integrated water and land management, climate-smart technologies and biodiversity protection, agro-industrial and market development, and digitalisation of agrifood systems. Collectively, these pillars are intended to enhance food security, reduce vulnerability to climate shocks, and improve competitiveness within the sector.
Cabinet was also briefed on the proposed governance and implementation arrangements, including the role of the ASTPS Steering Committee, ministerial oversight, and the responsibilities of technical lead officers in monitoring, evaluation, learning, and reporting. The need for strengthened project development, donor engagement, and cross-departmental coordination was underscored.
As part of the immediate priorities, Cabinet was advised of the need to operationalise the ASTPS governance framework and to strengthen institutional capacity within the Ministry of Agriculture to drive implementation of the policy and climate-related commitments.
Cabinet noted the presentation and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to advancing a modern, sustainable, and climate-resilient agrifood system as a key pillar of national development and food and nutrition security.
7. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is considering a comprehensive proposal submitted by the Director of Agriculture aimed at advancing national eco-regeneration, reforestation, and climate resilience efforts, within Christian Valley and other priority watershed areas identified as key focal points.
The proposal, presented through the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, outlines an integrated programme designed to strengthen water security, restore degraded landscapes, expand eco-tourism opportunities, and create sustainable employment, while supporting national climate and development objectives.
Cabinet was advised that the initiative is structured around multiple investment pillars, including large-scale reforestation, watershed rehabilitation, eco-tourism infrastructure, and modern forestry equipment and staffing. Among the components under consideration are the development of low-impact eco-cabins and a farm-to-table restaurant, designed to generate operating revenue, create jobs, extend visitor stays, and help finance long-term forestry operations. These facilities would utilise solar power, rainwater harvesting, passive cooling, and other low-footprint design features, with private-sector co-financing being pursued.
The proposal also highlights the need for modern equipment and trained personnel to ensure safe and effective implementation. Cabinet was informed that the acquisition of forestry and land-management equipment would not only improve tree survival rates and site maintenance but would also strengthen national disaster-response capacity.
An implementation timeline aligned with Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) was outlined, with phased delivery. The Director of Agriculture advised that the project is time-sensitive, noting that delays in funding decisions could affect planting seasons, increase costs, and undermine delivery targets.
Cabinet’s consideration of the proposal is ongoing, and further technical, financial, and institutional assessments will inform subsequent decisions.
8. Further to the recent Cabinet Decision marking the anniversary celebrations honouring Sir Robin Yearwood, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has agreed to the renaming of the roadway in St. Philip North from the Mount Joy Roundabout to the Long Bay Roundabout as the Sir Robin Yearwood Highway.
The decision forms part of the Government’s recognition of Sir Robin Yearwood’s distinguished service to Antigua and Barbuda, particularly his longstanding contribution to national development, public service, and the advancement of infrastructure and community life within St. Philip North and beyond.
Cabinet noted that the renaming of this major roadway serves as a lasting tribute to Sir Robin’s legacy and reflects the deep appreciation of the nation for his decades of dedicated service.
Arrangements for the official designation and signage of the Sir Robin Yearwood Highway will be announced in due course.
9. Cabinet has advanced discussions and issued directives aimed at accelerating the opening and full operationalisation of the School of Agriculture, noting that the institution is critical to national food security, skills development, and youth empowerment.
During deliberations, Cabinet was informed by the President of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advance Studies (ABCAS) that while the curriculum for the School of Agriculture is already completed, immediate challenges including security must be addressed. It was reported that the school’s location has previously experienced break-ins, underscoring the urgent need to complete electronic security installations before newly donated equipment can be deployed.
Cabinet noted that the institution has benefited from philanthropic support, including laptops and audiovisual equipment donated by Rotary and the American University of Antigua (AUA).However, Cabinet emphasized that these resources cannot be utilized until security upgrades are finalized. It was further reported that partial payment has already been made toward electronic security systems.
Cabinet approved $50,000 to prepare two classrooms and essential facilities, enabling the school to commence short courses as early as February.
In addition, Cabinet noted that agriculture has always formed part of the Government’s priority development agenda and that technical support is already being provided through collaboration with key stakeholders, including extension services, lecturers, and sector partners. Cabinet underscored the importance of strengthening practical training components, including livestock pens and extension-based learning, to ensure that students receive hands-on, industry-relevant experience.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to making the School of Agriculture as a centre for training, innovation, and sustainable agricultural development, and emphasized that the phased reopening will support workforce development while contributing to national resilience and food security objectives.
