During an official visit to Antigua and Barbuda last week, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey experienced the nation’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance as it gears up to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2026. The visit commenced with a vibrant cultural showcase at Sandals Resort, where the Antigua Dance Academy performed traditional drumming and dance. Botchwey, deeply moved by the rhythms, drew parallels to her homeland, Ghana, describing the performance as “heartfelt and unforgettable.”
Botchwey’s itinerary also included a guided tour of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, led by officials from the National Parks Authority. The tour featured visits to Clarence House, Shirley Heights Lookout, and the Dockyard Museum, offering insights into the island’s colonial past and maritime history. The day concluded with a traditional Antiguan lunch at the Copper & Lumber Store Hotel, further highlighting the country’s culinary traditions.
Though brief, Botchwey’s visit underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s unique blend of cultural pride, historical preservation, and forward-looking ambition as it prepares to welcome leaders from across the Commonwealth in 2026. The visit not only showcased the nation’s readiness to host a global event but also reinforced its commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing its role on the international stage.