The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated a comprehensive security training initiative in preparation for hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), an event poised to become the largest international gathering in the country’s history. The intensive two-week program, currently underway at Camp Blizzard, brings together security strategists, military personnel, and technical specialists tasked with safeguarding dozens of visiting world leaders and dignitaries.
Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene emphasized that security planning constitutes the fundamental framework of national preparations given the unprecedented scale of next year’s summit. The minister extended official gratitude to the Canadian government for deploying expert personnel to support the training mission.
Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, who leads the National CHOGM Task Force, outlined the program’s objectives to enhance leadership capabilities, intelligence coordination, and overall operational preparedness before the landmark event. Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, Chief of Defence Staff, underscored the critical importance of seamless synchronization across all CHOGM committees to guarantee flawless execution.
On-the-ground coordination is being managed by Captain Travis Pennyfeather of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, who collaborates closely with Canadian facilitator Clayton Purvis and a specialized team from the Canadian Armed Forces. Government officials characterize this training initiative as a pivotal advancement toward delivering a securely orchestrated and professionally managed international summit.