作者： admin

In a decisive move to tackle environmental degradation and public health concerns, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has designated October as National Anti-Litter Month. This initiative is part of a broader National Cleanup Campaign (NCC), a collaborative effort led by the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) and supported by multiple government agencies and community stakeholders. The campaign aims to address critical issues such as improper waste disposal, derelict vehicles, abandoned houses, and illegal dumping sites, which have been identified as significant threats to the nation’s well-being. A rapid assessment conducted by the ABDF revealed alarming statistics, including 31 derelict vehicles, 31 abandoned houses, and 2 illegal dump sites in just one sector of St. John, highlighting the urgent need for action. The NCC is being implemented in three strategic phases: preparation, execution, and sustainability. During the preparation phase, priority sites are being mapped, notices issued, and equipment secured. The execution phase involves a nationwide cleanup, starting in St. John and extending to all communities, including Codrington, with leadership from government ministers. The sustainability phase focuses on publishing results, promoting school-based environmental programs, and establishing regular community cleanups to ensure long-term impact. To foster public engagement, schools are organizing student activities to promote anti-litter practices, while national influencers, including soca artists and sports personalities, are participating in a marketing campaign to raise awareness and inspire community involvement. The Cabinet has praised the ABDF for its leadership, the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) for its operational support, and the various ministries, schools, NGOs, and citizens contributing to this collective effort. Citizens are urged to actively participate in this month-long initiative and beyond, with the goal of fostering a lasting cultural shift toward environmental stewardship. ‘Together, we can protect our health, preserve our environment, and strengthen national pride,’ the Cabinet emphasized.

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a significant request from the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) to waive all utility charges—electricity and water—at the ABFA Technical Center in Paynters, St. George. The request, submitted by the Hon. Minister for Sport, Daryll Matthew, highlights the center’s pivotal role in the nation’s sports development. The Technical Center, a multi-million-dollar investment, features two FIFA-certified artificial turf fields, administrative offices, modern player facilities, and public amenities. It serves as the national hub for football training, development, and competitions, including school-level tournaments in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports. The Cabinet emphasized the center’s unique status as the first facility of its kind in the country and its alignment with government policies that provide utility concessions to other national sporting venues. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to fostering youth development, promoting sports excellence, and enhancing Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation in regional and international football. The Cabinet also commended the ABFA for its substantial investment and partnership in advancing the nation’s sporting infrastructure.

The Ground Transportation Advisory Committee has unveiled a series of recommendations to tackle persistent issues in the regulation of ground transportation services at V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua and Barbuda. The proposals aim to address the growing problem of unauthorized operators, commonly referred to as ‘fly-by-night’ operators, who illegally solicit and transport passengers, posing significant safety and security risks while undermining legitimate businesses.