Rev. Christopher Roberts led the meditation at the meeting of the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday, drawing on the biblical passage Luke 10:38–42, which recounts the visit of Jesus to the home of Martha and Mary. His reflection focused on the importance of balancing the demands of daily responsibilities with the need to remain spiritually grounded and attentive to the teachings of the Lord.

Rev. Roberts explained that Martha was preoccupied with the preparations and practical responsibilities associated with welcoming Jesus into her home, while her sister Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to His teachings. Frustrated by her sister’s apparent lack of assistance, Martha asked Jesus to instruct Mary to help her. Jesus, however, gently reminded Martha that she was worried and distracted by many things, while Mary had chosen what was most important.

The Reverend noted that Martha’s actions reflected the pressures people often experience in fulfilling their duties and meeting the expectations of others. Although her desire to serve was commendable, her preoccupation with the many tasks before her caused her to overlook the opportunity to benefit from the presence and teachings of Jesus. Mary, on the other hand, recognized the importance of pausing from her activities to listen and receive spiritual guidance.

Rev. Roberts emphasized that the passage offers an important lesson for those entrusted with responsibilities, particularly those who must manage competing demands and make decisions affecting the lives of others. He observed that people can become so absorbed in their work, commitments and obligations that they lose sight of what is truly important. The challenge, therefore, is to maintain a proper balance between active service and spiritual reflection.

Applying the lesson to the work of Cabinet, he encouraged members to remain mindful that their responsibilities, while significant, should not cause them to become overwhelmed or distracted from the principles that ought to guide their decisions. He underscored the importance of seeking God’s wisdom, maintaining a calm spirit and ensuring that service to others is grounded in faith, humility and discernment.

Rev. Roberts further reminded members that there is a need to prioritize what is essential rather than becoming consumed by the numerous demands placed upon them. He encouraged them to approach their duties with a sense of purpose, while making time for reflection and listening to God’s direction.

In concluding the meditation, the Reverend urged Cabinet members to remain spiritually attentive amid their many responsibilities, recognizing that effective service requires not only diligence and commitment but also wisdom and a clear understanding of their priorities. He encouraged them to carry out their duties in a manner that honours God and contributes meaningfully to the well-being of the people they serve.

1. Cabinet Assures the Nation: Antigua and Barbuda will be Ready for CHOGM 2026

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has received a comprehensive update from the Task Force responsible for the management of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), with preparations advancing across security, accommodation, transportation and ceremonial arrangements ahead of the four-day international gathering.

The Task Force attended Cabinet on Wednesday to brief Ministers on the state of readiness for the hosting of CHOGM, which will bring together Commonwealth leaders, government representatives and other international delegates to Antigua and Barbuda.

The presentation reported that 53 countries have confirmed their participation. As delegations continue to increase the size of their travelling parties, requests are being made for additional accommodation to meet the growing demand.

Cabinet was advised that preparations are progressing across the key operational areas required to ensure the successful hosting of the meeting. The Government is working closely with local agencies and regional and international partners to coordinate the arrangements necessary to welcome the visiting delegations and facilitate the smooth conduct of the programme.

Security remains a major priority for the event. Cabinet was informed that security personnel have arrived from Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and The Bahamas. Personnel from member countries of the Regional Security System (RSS) have also begun arriving and are already on island.

More than 600 security officers are assisting the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force in providing security throughout the meeting. Security officials from Canada and the United Kingdom are also contributing to the overall security arrangements.

The deployment reflects the extensive coordination required to host a gathering of this scale, involving visiting Heads of Government, senior officials and other distinguished participants. 

Cabinet was briefed on the measures being coordinated to support the safe movement of delegates and the orderly conduct of CHOGM activities over the four-day period.

Cabinet also received an update on plans for the official opening of CHOGM, the ceremonial parade and the arrangements for transporting delegates to the various events and venues.

Transportation planning has involved the coordination of a substantial fleet of local vehicles to accommodate the movement of delegates, officials and other participants. The Task Force reported that more than 450 local transportation vehicles have been secured, including buses, taxis and paratransit vehicles.

The involvement of local transportation providers is an important part of the national preparations, ensuring that the hosting of CHOGM creates opportunities for local businesses while supporting the logistical demands of the meeting.

Cabinet noted that the coordination of transportation, accommodation, security and ceremonial activities is essential to ensuring that delegates can move efficiently between events and that the programme proceeds as planned.

The Government recognizes that hosting CHOGM represents a significant undertaking for a small island state. The scale of the preparations reflects the importance of the meeting to Antigua and Barbuda’s international profile and its role within the Commonwealth.

The work of the Task Force, together with the contributions of public servants, security agencies, private-sector partners, transportation providers and other stakeholders, forms part of a coordinated national effort to deliver a successful event.

Cabinet emphasized that readiness for CHOGM is not confined to the meeting venues. It also involves ensuring that the necessary operational systems, personnel and services are in place to receive international visitors and facilitate their participation throughout the programme.

With countries confirming attendance, security personnel arriving, accommodation arrangements being expanded and transportation resources secured, the preparations continue to move forward.

2. Cabinet Congratulates Winner of CHOGM 2026 Cricekt Match Coin Design Competition

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has congratulated sixteen-year-old Rodajah Imani, a first-year Visual Arts and Cultural Production student at the Dr Alister Francis Campus of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS), following her success in the competition to design the coin for the CHOGM 2026 cricket match.

Imani made a presentation of her winning design to Cabinet, where she received congratulations from the Prime Minister and members of Cabinet for her creativity and achievement in a competition that celebrates the connection between cricket, youth and Commonwealth unity.

The competition was launched in September 2026 and invited students of ABCAS to submit original designs under the theme “One Commonwealth, One Team.” The winning design is featured on the coin used for the toss at the Commonwealth cricket match, which forms part of activities associated with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The design reflects the spirit of the competition by bringing together Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural identity, its cricketing heritage and the shared values of the Commonwealth.

The front of the coin features a batsman inspired by photographs of former West Indies cricketers Winston Benjamin and Carl Hooper. The image is complemented by a wicket and the Shekerley Mountain Range, while the sun and sea represent Antigua and Barbuda. The year 2026 and the CHOGM inscription identify the occasion, while a chain of linked human figures symbolizes unity, partnership and economic collaboration among Commonwealth nations.

The reverse features the same chain of linked figures surrounding the official CHOGM 2026 logo, which incorporates Antigua and Barbuda’s national bird, the frigate bird. The design also includes the inscriptions “Antigua & Barbuda” and the CHOGM theme, “Accelerating Partnerships & Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”

Imani’s achievement is particularly noteworthy given her age and developing artistic career. Her interest in drawing began in Grade Five and grew into a more serious pursuit during her third-form years. She has described art as a means of expressing ideas, imagination and emotion, and takes pride in transforming her concepts into finished designs.

The Prime Minister and Cabinet commended Imani for demonstrating the talent and creative potential of Antigua and Barbuda’s young people. Her accomplishment highlights the importance of providing opportunities for students to apply their skills and contribute to national and international events.

The winning design also demonstrates how young people can use their creativity to communicate national identity while expressing broader ideals of friendship, teamwork and cooperation among nations.

The coin is being manufactured by Vaughtons, a British company with a long history in medal and coin production. In addition to producing the cricket match coin, Vaughtons is sponsoring CHOGM 2026 through the manufacture of 5,000 commemorative CHOGM medals and 180 medals marking Antigua and Barbuda’s 45th anniversary of independence. These medals will be distributed to visiting dignitaries, delegates and personnel.

Cabinet’s recognition of Imani underscores the Government’s appreciation for the contribution of young creatives to national development and the importance of showcasing Antiguan and Barbudan talent on the international stage.

3. Cabinet Briefed on Business Forum to be held alongside CHOGM 2026

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received a presentation from Financial Secretary Rasona Davis Crump on preparations for the Business Forum, which will form part of the official side events associated with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.

The briefing outlined the importance of the Business Forum as a platform for bringing together business leaders, investors, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders to explore investment opportunities and strengthen commercial partnerships across the Commonwealth.

The Forum is expected to complement the high-level discussions among Commonwealth leaders by providing opportunities for the private sector to engage directly with government representatives and potential business partners. It will also serve as a platform for showcasing Antigua and Barbuda as an attractive destination for investment and business development.

Cabinet was advised that the Business Forum will contribute to the broader objectives of CHOGM 2026, particularly the promotion of partnerships, investment and sustainable economic growth. The event will provide an opportunity to highlight the economic potential of Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean, while encouraging greater collaboration among Commonwealth countries.

The Government recognizes that hosting CHOGM presents a significant opportunity to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s international profile, deepen economic relationships and attract investment into priority sectors. The Business Forum is expected to support these objectives by facilitating dialogue on emerging opportunities, economic diversification and the role of private enterprise in advancing national and regional development.

The presentation by the Financial Secretary also underscored the importance of coordinated planning across Government and engagement with the private sector to ensure that the Forum delivers meaningful outcomes.

Cabinet welcomed the briefing and acknowledged the importance of the Business Forum as a component of the country’s preparations to host the Commonwealth gathering. The Government remains committed to ensuring that CHOGM 2026 provides tangible benefits for Antigua and Barbuda, including opportunities for investment, business development, job creation and stronger international partnerships.

Through the Business Forum and the wider programme of CHOGM activities, Antigua and Barbuda seeks to position itself as a forward-looking small state ready to engage with international partners, pursue new economic opportunities and contribute to a more prosperous Commonwealth.

4. Cabinet Renews call for Property Owners to Join the Transformation of St. John’s

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has renewed its call for business owners and other property owners in St. John’s to undertake repairs, repainting and general improvements to their buildings as the Government intensifies its efforts to transform the capital.

Cabinet issued an appeal several weeks ago, urging owners to take greater responsibility for the condition and appearance of their properties. At its meeting Wednesday, Cabinet reiterated the importance of continued cooperation from the private sector in achieving the vision of a cleaner, more attractive and modern St. John’s.

The Government believes that the transformation of the capital must be a shared responsibility. While public infrastructure improvements are being pursued, property owners are being encouraged to ensure that their buildings are properly maintained and that their external appearance contributes positively to the overall character of the city.

Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne has previously called on property owners, particularly those who earn rental income from commercial premises, to reinvest in the upkeep of their properties. The Government has also indicated its willingness to facilitate improvements in certain circumstances, including the provision of paint to assist with the beautification of selected buildings. Such assistance is intended to encourage improvements and is not a substitute for the responsibility of owners to maintain their properties.

Cabinet emphasized that the initiative extends beyond preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. The hosting of the Commonwealth gathering provides an important opportunity to showcase Antigua and Barbuda to international visitors, but the Government’s ambition for St. John’s is focused on lasting improvements that will benefit residents, businesses and visitors long after the meeting concludes.

Accordingly, Cabinet agreed that the St. John’s transformation programme will continue following CHOGM. The initiative will remain a priority in the Government’s broader urban renewal and development agenda.

The redevelopment programme is intended to improve the capital’s roads, drainage, utility infrastructure, sidewalks, public spaces and the general appearance of buildings. High Street has been identified as the initial focus of the wider revitalisation effort, with coordination among the relevant ministries, statutory bodies and public utilities expected to support the programme’s implementation. 

Cabinet has also underscored the importance of the Government leading by example through the repair, repainting and improvement of public buildings within the city. The participation of private property owners will complement these public investments and help achieve a more consistent and attractive urban environment.

The Government is encouraging owners to begin or continue the necessary work without waiting for the conclusion of CHOGM. Well-maintained buildings and commercial premises contribute to the city’s visual appeal, support business activity and help create a welcoming environment for residents, shoppers, tourists and investors.

Cabinet is confident that sustained cooperation between Government, property owners, businesses and the wider community will help restore St. John’s as a vibrant centre of commerce, culture and national life.

5. Cabinet Reiterates Call for Local Contractors to Pool Resources and Compete for Major National Projects

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has reiterated its call for local contractors to combine their resources, expertise and financial capacity to pursue major construction and infrastructure projects, strengthening the participation of Antiguan and Barbudan businesses in the country’s development.

Cabinet emphasized that greater collaboration among local construction firms is essential if they are to compete effectively for large-scale contracts that may otherwise be awarded to established regional and international companies.

The renewed appeal follows earlier discussions between Cabinet and local contractors, during which the Government encouraged firms to explore partnerships, joint ventures and other forms of collaboration to increase their capacity to undertake major projects. The engagement also provided an opportunity to discuss challenges affecting the construction sector, including access to financing, cash flow, project management and the preparation of competitive bids.

Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne has consistently maintained that local contractors should not allow the scale of major projects to prevent them from participating. Instead, firms are being encouraged to consider combining their individual strengths, equipment, technical expertise and financial resources to meet the requirements of larger contracts.

Cabinet believes that collaboration can help local firms expand beyond the limitations of operating independently. By pooling resources and sharing responsibilities, contractors may be better positioned to meet tender requirements, undertake complex assignments, strengthen their management systems and build a track record of delivering major projects.

The Government’s position is also reflected in its approach to the expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, where Cabinet has directed project officials to encourage local contractors to form partnerships to improve their ability to compete for the works.

Cabinet has also outlined measures to strengthen the construction sector, including the establishment of a Contractor Support Unit within the Ministry of Works. The unit is intended to assist local firms with bid preparation, costing, technical and administrative support, business development training and skills development aligned with international standards. Government has also reaffirmed the importance of more predictable payment cycles, recognizing that reliable cash flow is critical to the successful execution of construction contracts.

Cabinet recognizes that the development of a stronger domestic construction industry requires both Government support and a willingness by businesses to modernize, collaborate and adopt sound commercial practices. Contractors are therefore encouraged to strengthen their internal systems, improve project planning and costing, and explore partnerships with established firms where additional expertise or resources are required.

The Government’s objective is to create greater opportunities for local businesses to participate meaningfully in national development while building the capacity of the construction sector to undertake increasingly complex projects. This approach can support employment, facilitate the transfer of technical knowledge, strengthen local enterprises and help retain more of the value generated by public investment within Antigua and Barbuda.

Cabinet is therefore renewing its appeal to local contractors to begin engaging one another, identify areas of complementarity and establish practical arrangements that will allow them to compete collectively for major projects.