The prayers before Cabinet were led by a Pastor from the Evangelical Association who focused his meditation and prayer on 2 Chronicles 20:3 & 12:
When Jehoshaphat heard that a vast army was coming against him, fear came first—just as it often does for us. But what he did next changed everything. Instead of letting fear take over, he turned his face toward God. He called the nation to seek the Lord, reminding us that faith isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing where to look when fear shows up.
Verse 12 captures the heart of his prayer: “We have no power… we do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.”
It is one of the most honest prayers in Scripture. Jehoshaphat didn’t pretend to be strong. He didn’t pretend to have answers. He simply came before God with humility, admitting his limits—and trusting in God’s unlimited strength.
There are moments when life feels like an army is marching toward us: overwhelming responsibilities, unexpected news, financial pressure, health concerns, family struggles. In those moments, these verses teach us two simple but powerful responses:
- Seek God first.
Before planning, worrying, or reacting, turn your heart toward Him. He hears the prayer that begins in fear but moves in faith. - Fix your eyes on God, not the problem.
Jehoshaphat didn’t deny the size of the army; he just refused to give it his gaze. He chose to lift his eyes to the One greater than anything coming against him.And God responded—because God always meets the person who looks to Him with honest dependence. Today, if you feel outnumbered or unsure, you can pray the same prayer:
“Lord, I don’t have the strength or the answers, but my eyes are on You.”
And He will be faithful to guide, strengthen, and fight for you.
2026 BUDGET – CONSOLIDATED MINISTERIAL BRIEFING
1. The 2026 National Budget continues the Government’s transformative agenda aimed at strengthening social resilience, economic resilience, and climate resilience. With real GDP growth of 4.8% in 2025and projected 5% growth in 2026, Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing one of the strongest growth periods in its history.
National finances are at their strongest in decades:
- Primary surplus 2025: $254.9M
- Overall surplus 2025: $116.3M
- Projected surpluses 2026: $207.9M (primary), $69.5M (overall)
- Debt-to-GDP: 61.4% (down from over 100% in 2014)
The Budget places people at the centre: expanding access to healthcare, strengthening education, building more homes, modernising infrastructure, expanding agriculture, and protecting the most vulnerable.
1. PRIME MINISTER & MINISTER FOR FINANCE – Hon. Gaston A. Browne
Key Messages
- The 2026 Budget consolidates a decade of disciplined economic reform and strategic investment.
- Antigua & Barbuda is enjoying historic economic strength — record jobs, falling debt, strong revenue.
- Focus remains on people-centred development.
Key Data
- GDP growth: 4.8% (2025); projection 5% (2026)
- Debt-to-GDP: 61.4% (2025)
- Surpluses: $254.9M primary and $116.3M overall (2025)
- Active jobs: 54,288 (highest on record)
Key Initiatives
- Debt & Development Finance Office
- Digitisation of revenue systems (ABST, IRD, Customs)
- Citizens Transparency Portal
- Performance-based concessions
Quote
“We turned deficits into surpluses and vulnerability into resilience.”
2. MINISTER FOR HEALTH, WELLNESS, ENVIRONMENT & CIVIL SERVICE AFFAIRS – Hon. Sir. Molwyn Joseph
Core Messages
- 2026 is the most significant year of health sector modernization in decades.
- Universal coverage and improved access are the priority.
Major Measures
- Launch of National Health Insurance (NHI)
- Opening of $10M Renal Care Centre
- Reopening of Cancer Centre (Q1 2026)
- Establishment of Chest & Cardiac Centre with China
- National Mental Health Policy implementation
- Continued clinic upgrades (17 of 23 already completed)
Quote
“No citizen should be denied care because of cost — NHI makes that a reality.”
3. MINISTER FOR EDUCATION, SPORTS & CREATIVE INDUSTRIES – Hon. Daryl Matthew
Core Messages
- Education quality, access, and affordability remain top priorities.
- The Government is building a world-class local university system.
Major Actions
- $200M UWI Five Islands expansion
- Free CXC exam fees (2026)
- ABCAS tuition-free
- New degree programmes in Software Engineering, Law, Food & Agriculture
- New Five Islands Primary School (completion January 2027)
Quote
“We are empowering our youth with world-class opportunities, right here at home.”
4. MINISTER FOR WORKS & HOUSING – Hon. Maria Browne
Core Messages
- Infrastructure and housing are transforming daily life across the country.
- The Government is delivering community-level improvements at record scale.
Housing
- 120 new CHAPA homes
- 150 National Housing homes
- 150-unit Booby Alley redevelopment (mid-2026 completion)
- 100 new condos (50 Barbuda, 50 Bolans) funded by PRC
- Expansion of HAPI and first-time homeowner initiatives
Infrastructure
- Over $40M in road upgrades completed
- $100M+ road and drainage programme for 2026
Quote
“We are building communities — not just houses.”
5. MINISTER OF PUBLIC SAFETY, IMMIGRATION, LABOUR & LEGAL AFFAIRS – Hon. Sir. Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin
Core Messages
- Strengthening safety, justice, and labour protection remains essential to national stability.
Key Initiatives
- $4M in training, equipment, surveillance tools for police
- Maritime security upgrades (radar systems, patrol vessel)
- Minimum wage review — implementation planned by July 2026
- Stronger immigration and border management reforms
Quote
“Security is the foundation of prosperity.”
6. MINISTER FOR TOURISM, CIVIL AVIATION, TRANSPORT & INVESTMENT – Hon. Charles “Max” Fernandez
Core Messages
- Antigua & Barbuda is experiencing historic tourism success.
- Key global events will boost exposure and investment.
Key Facts
- 1.19M visitors in 2024 (historic record)
- 1.3M visitors projected for 2025
- Visitor expenditure: $2.4B in 2024
Major 2026 Events & Developments
- Hosting Caribbean Travel Marketplace
- Hosting CHOGM
- US$1.5B+ in tourism investments underway
Quote
“Antigua & Barbuda has become a premier destination for tourism, business and diplomacy.”
7. MINISTER FOR AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES & BARBUDA AFFAIRS – Hon. Anthony Smith
Core Messages
- Agriculture modernization is moving rapidly.
- Barbuda development is a significant national priority.
Agriculture Highlights
- $4M in heavy-duty agricultural equipment deployed
- Additional $4M to be deployed in 2026
- Construction of 2 new abattoirs + upgrade of existing one
- Diamonds Estate Agro-Industrial Park
- Mushroom Production Programme (IICA partnership)
- Christian Valley Eco-Lodge with UWI
Barbuda Development
- $50M road project
- $14M cargo/tourism port
- New DR-funded primary school
- 50 PRC-financed condo units
Quote
“Food security and Barbuda’s development go hand in hand.”
8. MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE – Hon. E.P. Chet Greene
Core Messages
- Antigua & Barbuda is exercising global leadership, particularly in climate justice.
- Diplomacy continues to generate development benefits.
Key Achievements
- Co-authored the Antigua & Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS)
- Leading climate cases at ITLOS and ICJ
- Expanding partnerships with major global allies
Major 2026 Role
- Hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM)
Quote
“Our diplomacy brings home real gains — from climate funding to infrastructure support.”
9. MINISTER OF SOCIAL & URBAN RENEWAL – Hon. Rawdon Turner
Core Messages
- The Government is strengthening support systems to ensure equity and compassion.
Key Facts
- Senior utility subsidy and People’s Benefit Programme support nearly 7,000 seniors and over 1,600 vulnerable families annually.
- Social safety net is fully maintained and expanded in 2026.
New & Continued Measures
- Expansion of food voucher programme
- Continued support for school meals and uniforms
- Strengthened PDVCAB operations
- Community and urban-renewal initiatives
Quote
“No one will be left behind — this Budget proves it.”
10. MINISTER FOR INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES, UTILITIES & ENERGY – Hon. Melford Nicholas
Core Messages
- Modern ICT reduces inequality and supports national competitiveness.
- Utilities modernization is improving quality of life and reducing costs.
Key Initiatives
- US$15M subsea cable investment
- APUA Vitz broadband for under $100 per month
- Grid strengthening and digital government expansion
Quote
“Every home must be connected — digitally, reliably, and affordably.”
Below is a link to the Citizen’s Guide to the Budget Presentation:
Link to Print file – https://drive.google.com/file/d/12QFBHZ8kDn4rAz-PtZV7VQPiLNJGlwd9/view?usp=sharing
2. Professor Xingwei Zhang, a leading medical specialist from Huanzhou University and Huanzhou Hospital, visited the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday for a high-level engagement focused on strengthening medical collaboration, advancing healthcare innovation, and supporting capacity development within the national health system.
During the visit, Professor Zhang delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining:
1. Opportunities for Medical and Academic Collaboration
Professor Zhang introduced Huanzhou University/Hospital’s strengths in advanced clinical care, medical research, and technology-driven healthcare solutions. He highlighted several areas for potential cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda, including:
- Specialized medical training and exchange programmes for local physicians, nurses, and allied-health staff
- Scholarship pathways for Antiguan and Barbudan students pursuing medicine and related disciplines
- Joint research initiatives in chronic disease management, telemedicine, and diagnostic innovation
- Technical support for modernization of local healthcare services, including equipment upgrades and digital health integration
- Exploration of medical tourism partnerships based on shared expertise and emerging medical technologies
Cabinet members expressed strong interest in these opportunities, noting their alignment with the Government’s priorities for strengthening the health sector and expanding high-quality care.
2. Presentation on Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Care
Professor Zhang also delivered an informative presentation on heart disease, currently one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and a growing concern in the Caribbean region.
His presentation covered:
- Prevalence and risk factors for heart disease, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and lifestyle factors
- Early detection strategies, emphasizing screening programmes, diagnostic imaging, and community-level health education
- Modern treatment approaches, such as minimally invasive cardiac interventions, advanced surgical techniques, and the use of digital monitoring tools
- Preventative care models, highlighting the importance of diet, exercise, regular checkups, and public awareness campaigns
- Capacity-building pathways to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s cardiovascular services through training, equipment support, and clinical exchanges
Professor Zhang emphasized that effective management of heart disease requires an integrated approach combining public education, clinical readiness, and strong health infrastructure. He noted Huanzhou University/Hospital’s willingness to support Antigua and Barbuda in enhancing cardiology services, including training opportunities for local clinicians and the exploration of a long-term partnership for cardiovascular care improvement.
The Cabinet welcomed the information and acknowledged the importance of bolstering national capacity to diagnose, prevent, and treat cardiovascular conditions—especially given the rising regional burden of non-communicable diseases.
The Cabinet expressed appreciation for Professor Zhang’s visit and the valuable insights shared. The Government reaffirmed its commitment to exploring collaborative pathways that strengthen healthcare delivery, expand educational opportunities, and improve health outcomes for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
3. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda, through the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, has signed four landmark agreements with the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University (AHHN), Hangzhou Normal University (HZNU), and the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC).
These agreements collectively represent one of the most significant expansions of healthcare cooperation between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China, strengthening clinical care, medical technology, telemedicine, training, and public health research.
1. Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Agreement
This five-year agreement establishes a long-term framework for medical collaboration between Antigua & Barbuda and Hangzhou Normal University.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Development of the Eastern Caribbean Chest Pain Centre
- Ongoing medical specialist exchanges and clinical support
- Telemedicine, digital health, and early intervention systems
- Professional training for doctors, nurses, and technicians
- Public health and chronic disease prevention programs
- Joint research and innovation
This agreements provide the foundation for modernizing Antigua & Barbuda’s health system using global best practices.
2. Memorandum of Agreement for the Establishment of the Omni Care Center
This agreement formalizes the launch of a national Omni Care Center, a specialized medical hub focusing on improved diagnostics, advanced clinical care, and emergency services.
Core Features
- Expanded cardiac emergency response capabilities
- Deployment of medical experts from HZNU and AHHN
- Upgraded diagnostic pathways and treatment planning
- Community health education and support for chronic disease management
- Hybrid online and onsite training programs
The Omni Care Center will serve as a major enhancement to patient care, reducing delays and improving health outcomes.
3. Memorandum of Agreement on the Construction of the International Internet Hospital
This agreement establishes an International Internet Hospital connecting Antigua & Barbuda with Hangzhou Normal University through a cross-border telemedicine platform.
Key Objectives
- Build a full remote diagnosis and treatment network linking Antigua & Barbuda with China
- Improve clinical evaluations for diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and obesity
- Strengthen telemedicine services across public primary care institutions
- Provide specialized online consultations via the Internet Hospital platform
- Support technology transfer for virtual clinics and remote patient monitoring
This virtual hospital will increase patient access to high-level specialist care without requiring travel overseas.
4. Memorandum of Agreement on the Use of Multi-Stream Data
This agreement establishes a major public health research initiative aimed at studying the health conditions of populations across the Eastern Caribbean.
AHHN will collect and analyze multi-source data—national, institutional, and individual—to provide scientific evidence for strengthening regional health systems.
Research Focus Areas
- Macro-level analysis: Environmental risks, social infrastructure, and development trends
- Meso-level analysis: Healthcare facility efficiency, capacity, equity, and disease burden
- Micro-level analysis: Patient behaviors, economic barriers, real-world access challenges
This agreement will support data-driven decision-making and long-term improvements in public health planning.
“These agreements mark an historic step in shaping a modern, resilient, and technologically advanced healthcare system in Antigua and Barbuda. Through cooperation with Hangzhou Normal University, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda is bringing world-class medical expertise directly to citizens, enhancing service delivery, and strengthening our ability to respond to current and future health challenges.”
Through these agreements, residents will benefit from:
- Greater access to specialist medical care
- Faster and more effective emergency treatment
- Reduced reliance on overseas medical travel
- Enhanced diagnostic and telemedicine services
- Stronger public health research and data-driven policies
- Improved training for local healthcare professionals
- Innovations in digital health and remote care
- The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has granted authorization to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) to make the necessary arrangements to formally engage the services of a Consultant Neurosurgeon. This decision supports the establishment of a stable, predictable, and sustainable neurosurgical service to meet the growing national and regional demand for specialist spine and cranial care.
The initiative follows a detailed proposal outlining the need for a structured neurosurgery program to replace the current episodic specialist visits with a consistent, well-coordinated service model. Over the past six years, visiting neurosurgical support has demonstrated strong patient outcomes and highlighted the urgent need for continuous specialist coverage on island.
Key Elements of the Proposed Neurosurgery Service
- Monthly outpatient neurosurgery clinics at SLBMC.
- Monthly extended elective surgery operating lists, allowing more patients to receive timely procedures on island.
- Structured emergency neurosurgery response, supported by a transparent, fixed-fee structure.
- Reduced dependence on overseas medical transfers, leading to significant cost savings.
- Enhanced training and surgical capacity for local healthcare professionals.
- Clear financial framework for emergency interventions and off-island procedures.
Expected Outcomes
- Lower healthcare expenditure by reducing costly overseas transfers.
- Faster access to specialist neurosurgical care, improving patient outcomes.
- Greater institutional capacity and long-term sustainability within the national healthcare system.
- Improved continuity of care for patients with chronic or complex neurosurgical conditions.
As demand for neurosurgical evaluation rises both locally and across the OECS, the introduction of a structured Consultant Neurosurgery Service marks a major step in strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s medical infrastructure. This service will significantly expand the availability of specialized care, reduce delays in treatment, and reinforce SLBMC’s role as a leading centre of medical excellence in the region.
- The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday welcomed Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, Principal of The University of the West Indies (UWI) St. Augustine Campus, for strategic discussions on strengthening cooperation between the University and the Government—particularly in supporting Antigua and Barbuda’s development of a regulated, science-based cannabis industry.
Professor Antoine, who leads the only UWI campus with a full Faculty of Agriculture, was invited to Cabinet in recognition of the significant research capacity, scientific expertise, and regulatory experience available at UWI St. Augustine. The Principal expressed strong interest in contributing to Antigua and Barbuda’s cannabis development agenda, highlighting UWI’s active scholarship and research across agriculture, medical sciences, and plant-based industries.
During the meeting, Professor Antoine emphasized that UWI St. Augustine has more than a century of institutional experience in agricultural science, dating back to the former Imperial College of Tropical Agriculture. She noted the University’s internationally recognized research centres, including its world-leading Cocoa Research Centre, and its growing body of scholars currently conducting research across several faculties.
The Principal stressed that UWI is well positioned to assist Antigua and Barbuda in:
- Developing a safe, science-driven cannabis industry
- Strengthening agricultural production systems
- Modernizing legislation and regulatory frameworks
- Conducting laboratory testing and product standardization
- Training local farmers, regulators, and technicians
- Supporting innovation, commercialization, and product development
Professor Antoine also encouraged governments across the region to take a more structured approach to research and development, noting that national priorities should guide academic research for maximum public benefit.
Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne welcomed the Principal’s proposals and reaffirmed the Government’s intention to build a cannabis industry rooted in scientific best practices and regional academic support. The Prime Minister praised UWI’s long tradition of agricultural excellence and acknowledged the value of a partnership that combines public policy, scientific research, and sector development.
After discussions, Cabinet reached several key decisions:
- UWI St. Augustine will be granted a research license to undertake cannabis-related research in Antigua and Barbuda, enabling formal collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and national regulatory bodies.
- A framework for laboratory testing and certification will be explored, including requirements for testing facilities or partnerships with existing institutions.
- UWI experts will assist with curriculum design and capacity building for the country’s new School of Agriculture, scheduled to commence operations early next year.
During the discussions, Cabinet ministers also highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s broader plans to expand agricultural production, integrate new technologies, establish accredited agricultural programmes, and collaborate with international institutions such as the University of Ghana. Professor Antoine noted that UWI stands ready to support these initiatives, particularly in helping the Five Islands Campus deepen its academic offering and research activity.
The meeting concluded with mutual agreement that closer collaboration between UWI and the Government will:
- Strengthen national food security
- Enhance agricultural innovation
- Support the development of a credible, export-ready cannabis industry
- Advance research and education at the UWI Five Islands Campus
- Build long-term economic opportunities for local farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation to Professor Antoine for her leadership and commitment to regional development and welcomed further collaboration in the months ahead. Cabinet ministers also commended UWI’s ongoing support in areas such as agriculture, health, and infrastructure research.
Professor Antoine thanked the Cabinet for the opportunity and affirmed UWI’s readiness to play a central role in supporting Antigua and Barbuda’s scientific and economic advancement.
- The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has endorsed a major new initiative aimed at transforming sports development across the nation, following a comprehensive presentation by the Minister for Sport, the Honourable Daryl Matthew.
During today’s Cabinet session, Minister Matthew outlined the Government’s vision to decentralize sports development,ensuring that training, talent identification, and athlete support are more accessible to communities throughout Antigua and Barbuda. The new framework is designed to strengthen grassroots participation while creating structured pathways for athletes to reach elite performance levels.
Cabinet unanimously agreed to the establishment of a Centre of Excellence/Youth Academy, which will serve as the premier hub for identifying, developing, and preparing elite athletes. The Academy will provide specialized coaching, sports science support, and high-performance training to young athletes demonstrating exceptional potential.
This strategic investment positions Antigua and Barbuda to cultivate world-class talent across multiple sporting disciplines, while ensuring that youth development remains a central pillar of national sports policy.
As part of the decentralization plan, Cabinet approved the use and enhancement of several key sporting facilities:
- Pareas Playing Field – designated as a major training site, with Government committed to upgrading and modernizing the facility to meet professional training standards.
- Jennings Playing Field – identified as a community-level development centre to widen access to training and developmental programmes.
- All Saints Playing Field – to be integrated into the national sports development grid, supporting talent identification and early-stage athlete development.
These facilities will work in coordination with the Centre of Excellence/Youth Academy, ensuring that sports development is nationally spread, community-supported, and professionally structured.
The Cabinet reaffirmed the Government’s strong commitment to investing in youth development, expanding opportunities for athletes, and elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s presence on the regional and international sporting stage.
The decentralization initiative, supported by the establishment of the Centre of Excellence, represents a significant step forward in shaping the future of sports and empowering young people across the nation.
