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The government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a comprehensive overhaul of its Litter Warden Programme following widespread public criticism regarding its visibility and effectiveness in combating illegal dumping. Maurice Merchant, Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, revealed that the initiative is undergoing a complete revitalization to enhance accountability and operational impact. ‘People are asking, ‘Where are they? Do we have any?’’ Merchant stated, emphasizing the need for better training, equipment, and strategic deployment of wardens. The programme, which plays a crucial role in monitoring communities, identifying dump sites, and reporting offenders, has faced scrutiny due to the perceived absence of wardens in action. The reforms aim to strengthen coordination with key agencies, including the National Solid Waste Management Authority and the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, which spearheads the national cleanup campaign. Additionally, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve enforcement, data collection, and public education on environmental protection. The government’s efforts underscore its commitment to addressing environmental challenges and fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future for the nation.

Antigua and Barbuda’s ‘Month of No Litter’ campaign, initially launched as a short-term initiative, is now transitioning into a year-round effort due to overwhelming public support. The campaign, which encourages citizens to maintain cleanliness and pride in their environment, has gained significant traction across the nation. Maurice Merchant, Director of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted the remarkable response, noting that individuals from various sectors—including sports, entertainment, and education—have pledged their commitment to the cause. The initiative, part of the broader National Cleanup Campaign under the theme ‘Love Where You Live,’ is spearheaded by the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, the Solid Waste Management Authority, and the Ministries of Health and Works. Merchant emphasized that the campaign’s success reflects a ‘positive shift in national consciousness,’ transforming it into a grassroots movement rather than a government-led effort. The expansion of the campaign underscores the growing awareness and collective responsibility among Antiguans and Barbudans to preserve their country’s natural beauty and cleanliness.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a clarion call to the citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, urging them to take greater responsibility for maintaining cleanliness and beautifying their surroundings. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Browne emphasized that the national clean-up and beautification campaign is a collective effort aimed at restoring pride and order across the nation. The initiative, led by the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) in collaboration with the Solid Waste Authority, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Works, seeks to address the alarming levels of litter, derelict vehicles, and abandoned properties that have become significant health and safety hazards. Browne expressed his dismay at the persistent issue of indiscriminate dumping, stating, ‘I’m begging our people — this is the 21st century. You’re telling me that people are still taking their bulk waste and dumping them in green spaces when nobody’s looking? That’s inappropriate. There’s a landfill. Take it to the landfill.’ The campaign is not limited to cleaning; it also includes beautification efforts, with the ABDF and prisoners assisting in planting flowering and fruit trees along major roads. Browne envisions a country where citizens can take pride in their surroundings, saying, ‘When you drive along the road, we want you to feel proud being in Antigua. Our vision is for citizens to enjoy living standards that are second to none.’ To further the initiative, the government plans to introduce legislation allowing for the demolition of derelict buildings and for cleanup costs to be attached to the land. Browne clarified that the measure is not intended to dispossess owners but to eliminate eyesores and health risks that ‘give a poor impression of the country.’ He also encouraged residents to maintain their homes and surroundings, emphasizing that personal responsibility is crucial for the nation’s development. ‘Each of us must take responsibility. The government can’t do everything,’ Browne said. ‘Even beautifying your home — no matter how small or modest — is important. Put a few little plants in front of your house. It’s not hard to maintain.’ The Prime Minister linked cleanliness and civic pride to the country’s broader economic and social progress, stating, ‘We’re doing very well economically, but the country must reflect the extent of the wealth within it. The litter is awful and we have to address it as a matter of urgency.’ Browne expressed his hope that the cleanup effort would foster a renewed sense of national pride and community engagement, concluding, ‘This is about pride, presentation, and progress. We all have a part to play in making Antigua and Barbuda beautiful again.’

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has urged health authorities to investigate allegations of environmental pollution caused by a local distillery. Residents have reported a persistent and overpowering odor emanating from the facility, prompting immediate concern. Speaking on the ‘Browne and Browne Show’ on Pointe FM, the Prime Minister emphasized that he has directed the Ministry of Health and the Central Board of Health (CBH) to assess the situation and ensure the distillery adheres to environmental and public health regulations. ‘That distillery is polluting the environment — you can smell it from a distance, and that is not acceptable,’ Browne stated. While reaffirming the government’s support for private enterprise, Browne warned that businesses must not compromise public health. ‘We support business, yes. But no business should be allowed to pollute and make people sick. They have to meet certain minimum standards,’ he added. The Prime Minister also connected this issue to his administration’s ongoing national cleanup and beautification campaign, which seeks to enhance sanitation, eliminate derelict properties, and foster a healthier living environment across the country. He called for swift action from the CBH and the Ministry of Health to address the matter and prevent further harm to residents.