Antigua and Barbuda has launched a major project to improve disaster warnings and emergency preparedness. Meanwhile, officials say the initiative will strengthen weather forecasting and public safety.

The government launched the project with support from the United Nations Development Programme, also known as UNDP. In addition, the Green Climate Fund provided US$12.3 million in funding.

Officials introduced the five-year initiative during a National Inception Workshop at Trade Winds Hotel. The project operates under the “Early Warnings for All” programme.

The workshop brought together government officials, disaster experts, and United Nations representatives. Furthermore, the meeting focused on technical plans and legal frameworks.

According to officials, the project aims to ensure every resident receives life-saving information before disasters strike. The system will also support people in remote communities.

Minister of State Kiz Johnson delivered the keynote address during the event. She stressed the importance of reaching every community across Antigua and Barbuda.

“We are here to ensure that information lives and breathes at the last mile,” Johnson said. She also emphasized trusted communication channels.

Meanwhile, Antigua and Barbuda currently ranks fifth on the World Risk Index. Therefore, officials say stronger disaster preparation remains necessary.

The project will modernize the national Disaster Management Act. In addition, it will upgrade monitoring equipment and infrastructure at the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service.

The initiative also forms part of a wider UNDP programme across seven climate-vulnerable countries. Altogether, the regional programme receives US$103 million from the Green Climate Fund.

Kristin Lang of the Green Climate Fund highlighted growing climate threats across the Caribbean. She said stronger hurricanes, floods, and droughts continue affecting regional communities.

As a result, the project aims to improve climate resilience and emergency response systems. Officials say stronger warning systems can protect lives and livelihoods.

Several United Nations agencies also support the initiative. These include the World Meteorological Organization, UNDRR, ITU, and IFRC.

Meanwhile, Stephanie ZiebelI of UNDP described the project as a proactive shield for Antigua and Barbuda. She said local and international cooperation remains essential.

The workshop also focused on forecasting improvements for flash floods and storm surges. In addition, delegates will visit emergency response sites and training areas.

Officials say the project remains a national priority as climate threats continue to increase across the region.