COBBS CROSS, Antigua — October 6, 2025 — Antigua and Barbuda has made significant strides in its national healthcare infrastructure program, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne announcing the completion of rebuilding or repairing 17 out of the country’s 23 community health clinics. The announcement came during the reopening of the Cobbs Cross Clinic, a facility that had been closed for over two decades. This marks a pivotal moment in the government’s efforts to modernize healthcare access across the nation. Speaking at the event, Browne praised the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Public Works, emphasizing the importance of restoring essential services in underserved areas. The Cobbs Cross Clinic will now offer a range of services, including maternal and child care, immunizations, chronic disease management, and family planning. Browne highlighted that the government’s strategy focuses on creating a sustainable and modern healthcare system that ensures every citizen has access to dignified care. He also reaffirmed the commitment to completing the remaining six clinics, which will bring the primary healthcare network to full capacity. This progress aligns with broader initiatives such as the upcoming National Health Insurance program and expanded diagnostic services at the community level. The Prime Minister’s remarks underscored the administration’s dedication to equipping each clinic with adequate staffing and resources to deliver reliable, community-based care. “We are building a healthcare system that is not temporary or improvised,” Browne stated. “It is sustainable, modern, and designed to serve every citizen with dignity.”
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
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TS Jerry forecast to become a hurricane soon, watches in place for Antigua and Barbuda
Tropical Storm Jerry is rapidly advancing toward the northern Leeward Islands, posing significant threats of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous surf conditions. As of 500 AM AST on October 8, 2025, the storm was located near latitude 13.3 North, longitude 50.7 West, approximately 890 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands. With maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a current movement of 23 mph (37 km/h) toward the west-northwest, Jerry is expected to strengthen and potentially escalate into a hurricane by Thursday. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for several islands, including Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Guadeloupe. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor the storm’s progress closely. Forecasters predict that Jerry will bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding, particularly in elevated regions. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated as swells generated by the storm reach the islands. The next advisory will be issued at 800 AM AST, with a comprehensive update at 1100 AM AST. Authorities urge residents to prepare for potential impacts and heed safety warnings.
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Sir Molwyn: Government to Table National Health Insurance Bill in Early 2026
Antigua and Barbuda’s Health Minister, Sir Molwyn Joseph, has announced plans to introduce national health insurance legislation in Parliament during the first quarter of 2026. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward universal healthcare coverage. Speaking at the reopening of the Cobbs Cross Clinic, Sir Molwyn emphasized that consultations with the University of the West Indies on the design of the scheme have been finalized, setting the stage for its implementation. ‘By the first quarter of next year, we’ll have legislation before Parliament to establish a national health insurance,’ he stated. ‘Our policy ensures that healthcare is accessible to every citizen, regardless of their financial status.’ The announcement is part of a broader government effort to enhance healthcare delivery, including the renovation of 17 out of the nation’s 23 clinics and the modernization of diagnostic capabilities at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Sir Molwyn highlighted that the initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to equitable healthcare access and reducing financial barriers for low-income families. The upcoming legislation will complement ongoing reforms in primary healthcare and the revitalization of community clinics, such as the recently reopened Cobbs Cross facility.
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PM Browne: One or two offshore banks may end up being placed under liquidation
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has revealed that one or two offshore banks in the country may face liquidation due to persistent difficulties in maintaining correspondent banking relationships. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Browne highlighted that these institutions have struggled to secure or retain international correspondent partners, which are essential for processing cross-border transactions. This challenge has been exacerbated by increasingly stringent global banking regulations. Browne emphasized that the issue is not isolated to Antigua and Barbuda but is part of a broader trend affecting small financial centers worldwide, a phenomenon often referred to as ‘de-risking.’ The government is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) to safeguard depositors and ensure compliance with international standards. Despite these challenges, Browne reassured that the domestic banking system remains stable, with local banks maintaining robust correspondent relationships and strong liquidity positions. The prime minister reiterated the country’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its financial sector while navigating these global pressures.
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SunEye Security Services Denies Claim of Unpaid Wages
SunEye Security Services has firmly refuted claims that it failed to pay its employees’ salaries and statutory deductions. The company’s legal representative has dismissed the allegations as unfounded, asserting that all employees have signed payment sheets confirming receipt of their wages. To substantiate their stance, SunEye Security Services has provided copies of these signed records to Antigua Newsroom, reinforcing their position that the accusations are entirely false. The company remains committed to transparency and compliance with labor regulations, emphasizing its dedication to fair treatment of its workforce. This development comes amidst heightened scrutiny of corporate practices in the region, underscoring the importance of accurate reporting and accountability in the business sector.
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SDA Members Say Saturday Independence Parade Excludes Them
A letter addressed to the editor has highlighted growing concerns over the scheduling of Antigua and Barbuda’s Independence Ceremonial Parade and National Food Fair. The events, set to take place on a Saturday, have inadvertently excluded members of the Seventh-day Adventist community, who observe the Sabbath on this day. This decision has been criticized as unfair and dismissive of the nation’s religious diversity. The letter, penned by an SDA member, emphasizes that the choice of a weekend day prevents approximately 15,000 individuals from participating fully in the celebrations. The author suggests that holding the event on the following Monday would have ensured inclusivity, allowing all citizens to partake in the festivities. The letter underscores the importance of national events being accessible to everyone, fostering unity and respect for all communities. It calls on organizers to consider these concerns for future celebrations, ensuring that such significant occasions are representative of the entire population. The issue has sparked a broader conversation about the need for sensitivity and inclusivity in planning national events, particularly in a country as culturally and religiously diverse as Antigua and Barbuda.
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CWI CEO Calls for Increased Support for West Indies Cricket from Regional Tourism Partners
Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Chris Dehring has issued a compelling appeal to Caribbean tourism stakeholders, urging them to share the responsibility for the sustainability of West Indies cricket. Speaking at the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) held in Barbados from September 30 to October 3, Dehring highlighted the significant financial contributions CWI has made to the tourism sector over the past 15 years, including $82.5 million on airlift and $120 million on hotel accommodations. Despite these investments, sponsorship support from airlines and hotels has been minimal, creating an unsustainable imbalance. Dehring emphasized that without greater collaboration and investment from tourism beneficiaries, the future of West Indies cricket remains at risk. He praised Sandals Resorts International as a rare example of meaningful support, while calling on other regional players to follow suit. The CEO’s remarks underscored the critical intersection between sports and tourism, stressing that shared investment is essential for the long-term health of the sport and the Caribbean brand.
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ABIA Launches BRIDGE Facility to Fund Green and Digital Projects for Caribbean MSMEs
The Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) has unveiled the BRIDGE Facility, a groundbreaking funding initiative designed to empower micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the Caribbean. This program, spearheaded by the Caribbean Export Development Agency and backed by the European Union under the Global Gateway initiative, seeks to drive the region’s transition toward sustainable and digitally advanced business models. The BRIDGE Facility offers substantial financial support for projects focused on green transition and digital transformation. MSMEs can secure up to EUR 100,000 for initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, circular economy, blue economy, and green technologies. Additionally, up to EUR 50,000 is available for projects in e-commerce, automation, cybersecurity, digital products, and supply chain digitization. A key requirement for applicants is to contribute at least 40% of the project cost, ensuring commitment and long-term sustainability. Interested businesses are encouraged to review the full guidelines, complete the application form, and utilize the provided budget templates available on the Caribbean Export Development Agency’s website. The deadline for submissions is November 9, 2025, at 11:59 PM AST. For further inquiries, contact [email protected]. This initiative marks a significant step in fostering economic resilience and innovation in the Caribbean, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and embrace digital advancements.
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Antigua and Barbuda Art Week Returns with ‘Culture in Colour’
Antigua and Barbuda is gearing up to host its much-anticipated Art Week from November 26 to December 2, 2025. This annual festival, themed ‘Culture in Colour,’ promises to transform the twin-island nation into a vibrant hub of artistic expression and cultural celebration. Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in collaboration with the Department of Culture, the event will feature over 15 diverse activities, including visual arts, music, dance, fashion, spoken word, and culinary delights.
Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, emphasized the festival’s role in showcasing the islands’ rich cultural heritage. ‘Art Week offers a unique opportunity for visitors and residents alike to explore the creativity and stories that define Antigua and Barbuda,’ he said. The festival aims to highlight the islands’ dynamic cultural identity beyond their renowned beaches.
Key venues for the event include historic sites like Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay, as well as public spaces such as V.C. Bird International Airport. The opening night on November 26 will feature live art demonstrations, music performances, and open-air exhibitions at Redcliffe Quay. Highlights of the week include a Visual Arts Exhibition at the Dr. Alister Francis Campus, showcasing works by Antiguan artist Mark Brown and students from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies. A Sustainable Art Workshop by Good Humans 268 Inc. will explore eco-friendly materials, while Art Talks will delve into the future of Caribbean creativity.
Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to the ‘ZOIGE’ Fashion Show on November 30, hosted by designer Garrett Javan, which will present bold new designs and interactive experiences. Art and Culture Bus Tours on November 28 and 29 will offer curated visits to galleries, artisan spaces, and scenic landscapes. Other notable events include a Student Art Competition, the Expressions of Art and Fashion Exhibit at V.C. Bird International Airport, and ‘Mandala and Mojitos,’ an art-and-cocktail evening at Local in Bay Gardens.
Most activities are free and open to the public, with select experiences requiring pre-registration. Paid events start at EC$75, with tickets available from mid-October via the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, TickeTing App, and other organizers. For the full schedule and hotel packages, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow @antiguabarbudaartweek on social media.
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OECS Congratulates Antiguan Youth Farmer Michael Joseph on CARICOM Award
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has warmly congratulated Michael Joseph, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youth (ABAFY), for being named the CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025. The prestigious award was presented during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, held in St. Kitts, where Joseph was celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainability. The OECS lauded Joseph as a trailblazer, particularly for his use of advanced technologies such as spray drones, water-saving systems, and natural farming methods, which have significantly modernized food production across the Eastern Caribbean. Joseph’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and creativity. He shared how he began his agricultural career by walking four miles daily to his farm and using recycled plastic bottles for irrigation. His innovative practices, including no-till methods and sustainable farming techniques, have enabled him to produce twice the average yield per acre compared to traditional farms. His two spray drones have reduced labor, water, and chemical use by over 50%, while enhancing efficiency and crop coverage. The OECS emphasized that Joseph’s success highlights the critical role of young people in developing climate-smart and resilient food systems in the Caribbean. His achievements demonstrate how innovation and sustainability can work together to secure the region’s agricultural future. The Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2025, which concluded on October 4, featured technical sessions, policy dialogues, and exhibitions focused on food security, climate-smart agriculture, and regional cooperation.