China will provide Antigua and Barbuda with additional pipes later this year to help improve the country’s aging water infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Gaston Browne said the government plans to speed up its national water re-piping programme.

Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne explained that outdated pipelines continue to affect water distribution across the country.

“We have thousands of miles of pipes to change,” Browne said.

He also acknowledged that the replacement programme will take time. However, he said the government continues to make steady progress.

“But at least we’re making steady progress,” the prime minister added.

Furthermore, Browne confirmed that Antigua and Barbuda secured grant assistance from the Chinese government to support the project.

“We also have a grant programme with the Chinese,” Browne said.

According to Browne, China will provide additional pipes later this year as part of that arrangement.

In addition, the prime minister linked the programme to discussions held during an official visit to China in 2023.

The government has repeatedly pointed to aging underground infrastructure as a major problem affecting the country’s water system.

Officials also said leaking pipelines continue to cause significant water losses across the island.

At the same time, drought conditions have placed additional pressure on the national supply network.

As a result, many communities continue to face water shortages and supply disruptions.

Therefore, officials say replacing outdated pipelines remains a major priority for the administration.

Browne said the government wants to improve efficiency and strengthen water distribution across Antigua and Barbuda.

Moreover, the administration continues efforts to modernize key public infrastructure systems nationwide.

The re-piping programme forms part of wider plans to improve public utilities and reduce long-standing service problems.

Meanwhile, officials continue assessing sections of the pipeline network that require urgent replacement.

The government has not yet announced when the new shipment of pipes will arrive.

However, Browne indicated that work on the replacement programme will continue throughout the year.

Overall, officials hope the upgrades will help reduce leaks, improve water pressure, and provide more reliable access to water for residents across the country.