The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda met on 1 July 2026 to review key national issues. Members approved new measures to strengthen healthcare, housing, education, and economic growth.

The Cabinet reviewed the Government’s second-quarter fiscal report. Customs collected more revenue during the first six months of 2026 than during the same period last year. Higher collections came from better compliance and stronger economic activity. Cabinet praised the Customs and Excise Division for its work. Members also reviewed spending on roads, healthcare, tourism, and other public services.

The Government also reported steady progress in reducing debt. It lowered Chinese-funded loans from more than US$300 million to about US$120 million. It also paid off the loan for the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The Cabinet decided to keep fuel prices at their current levels. Members said this decision will help families and businesses manage higher global fuel costs.

Healthcare remained a top priority. The Cabinet approved talks for a EC$14 million loan to buy new equipment for the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. The hospital will receive new beds, digital imaging equipment, operating theatre equipment, neonatal incubators, and improved computer systems. The Cabinet also approved EC$2.5 million to buy a new CT scanner. The new scanner will improve patient care and reduce waiting times. The hospital plans to launch 24-hour pharmacy services on 1 October. The Sickle Cell Unit will begin full operations on 6 August.

The Cabinet also reviewed several housing projects. The Booby Alley Housing Project will include maintenance teams, block managers, and solar power systems. New housing projects in Bolans and Barbuda will offer rent-to-own homes. Families who cannot qualify for commercial mortgages will have another financing option through the National Housing Programme.

Members also discussed plans for Perry Bay, Keeling Point, and Darkwood Beach. The proposal includes new homes, commercial lots, and a marina. The Government also plans to turn Darkwood Beach into a public park. Environmental studies will guide both projects before construction starts.

Cabinet also confirmed that work continues on the new Five Islands Primary School and the expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. Antigua and Barbuda will continue working with CDEMA to strengthen disaster preparedness across the region. At the same time, the government has approved talks for an EC$14 million loan to purchase new medical equipment for the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.

The upgrades will include hospital beds, digital imaging equipment, operating theatre equipment, neonatal incubators, and stronger information technology systems. The Cabinet also approved EC$2.5 million to purchase a new CT scanner. The hospital also plans to introduce 24-hour pharmacy services on 1 October. The Sickle Cell Unit is expected to open fully on 6 August.

The Cabinet also discussed housing projects. The Booby Alley Housing Project will include dedicated management, maintenance services, and solar power systems. New housing developments in Bolans and Barbuda will operate under rent-to-own arrangements. Eligible families who cannot qualify for commercial loans will have access to financing through the National Housing Programme.

Members also reviewed development plans for Perry Bay, Keeling Point, and Darkwood Beach. The proposal includes new housing, commercial lots, and a marina. Darkwood Beach will become a public park. Environmental impact assessments will guide both projects before construction begins.

Cabinet also confirmed that work continues on the new Five Islands Primary School and the expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. Members also endorsed Antigua and Barbuda’s continued role in regional disaster preparedness through CDEMA.