标签: Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Government Reassigns Several Permanent Secretaries

    Government Reassigns Several Permanent Secretaries

    In a significant administrative realignment, the government has announced a strategic reassignment of several high-ranking permanent secretaries across multiple ministries. This reshuffle aims to optimize leadership capabilities and ensure the most effective deployment of experienced personnel within the civil service.

    Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, previously with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education. This move brings his diplomatic expertise to the educational sector during a period of ongoing reform.

    Concurrently, Ina Dalso-Henry, who held the position of Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education since her transfer from Health last year, has been reassigned to lead the Ministry of Creative Industries. Her successor in the Foreign Affairs role will be Sharon Stevens, marking a new chapter in the ministry’s diplomatic administration.

    Commenting on these transitions, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, characterized the moves as standard operational procedure. He emphasized that such periodic rotations are conducted to achieve the ‘best fit’ for various governmental divisions, ensuring that seasoned administrators are positioned where their specific skills can be most effectively utilized for national benefit. Merchant further clarified that these adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to maintain a dynamic and responsive public service structure.

  • Intersection at Corn Alley and Long Street Closed for Up to a Week

    Intersection at Corn Alley and Long Street Closed for Up to a Week

    Municipal authorities have implemented a full vehicular closure at the critical junction of Corn Alley and Long Street, with the shutdown anticipated to persist for approximately five to seven days. This temporary measure is essential to facilitate the proper curing of newly laid concrete, ensuring the structural integrity and long-term durability of the road surface.

    The strategic closure aims to protect the freshly installed concrete from potential damage that could compromise the roadway’s safety and lifespan. During this period, traffic patterns in the adjacent areas will undergo significant modifications. Southbound vehicles on Corn Alley will maintain access to left turns onto Long Street, while eastbound travel remains the sole permitted direction for motorists on Long Street.

    Transportation officials are urging drivers to adhere to all posted directional signage and exercise heightened vigilance when navigating through the reconfigured traffic zones. The intersection is scheduled to resume normal operations upon completion of the concrete curing process, which requires this protective period to achieve optimal strength and durability standards.

  • Grays Hill Resident Calls for Road Repairs After Truck Crashes Into Property

    Grays Hill Resident Calls for Road Repairs After Truck Crashes Into Property

    A Grays Hill resident is issuing urgent appeals to government officials for immediate road repairs following a severe incident where a truck lost control on the deteriorating roadway and crashed into her residential property. The accident resulted in significant damage to both a parked vehicle and structural components of her home.

    Surveillance footage captured the moment the commercial truck veered off the compromised road surface, entering the residential driveway before colliding with the rear section of a stationary black sedan. The impact continued as the vehicle subsequently struck an exterior air-conditioning condenser unit mounted alongside the residential structure.

    The property owner revealed she has consistently petitioned authorities regarding the hazardous road conditions through multiple channels. Despite her persistent efforts, including direct communications with the Public Works Department and even attempting temporary pothole repairs herself, no substantive action has been taken to address the deteriorating infrastructure.

    “I’ve exhausted all available options in seeking road repairs,” the frustrated homeowner stated, emphasizing the potential for greater tragedy had residents been outdoors during the incident. The close call has intensified her demands for immediate governmental intervention.

    The resident is now directly appealing to Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Works Minister Maria Browne to dispatch assessment teams to evaluate the hazardous conditions in the Grays Hill vicinity. This incident highlights broader infrastructure concerns throughout Antigua and Barbuda, where deteriorating road networks—particularly in elevated regions—present escalating risks to both motorists and adjacent properties. The geographical challenges of hilly terrain exacerbate existing pavement damage and pothole formation, creating potentially dangerous conditions that require comprehensive infrastructure evaluation and remediation.

  • Concern Grows After Three Fishermen From Urlings Fail to Return

    Concern Grows After Three Fishermen From Urlings Fail to Return

    The tranquil coastal settlement of Urlings has been plunged into profound anxiety following the unexplained disappearance of three local fishermen. The individuals embarked on their routine maritime expedition on Thursday evening and have since failed to make contact or return to shore, triggering widespread alarm throughout the region.

    In a powerful demonstration of communal solidarity, residents have initiated a digital campaign to locate the missing mariners. A public appeal containing critical identifiers has been disseminated across social media platforms and community networks. The notice features two dedicated contact lines—774-0820 and 728-5884—established for potential informants to relay any pertinent information regarding the fishermen’s whereabouts.

    Visual evidence accompanying the alert depicts a fishing craft presumed to be the vessel operated by the missing crew. The boat, identifiable by the markings “FAITH P” and registration code Y2090UL, represents a crucial element in the ongoing search efforts. Maritime experts suggest these identifiers could significantly aid recognition by fellow seafarers or coastal observers.

    As hours extend into days without communication, familial distress has reached critical levels. Relatives of the absent fishermen describe an agonizing wait for updates, with hope increasingly tempered by apprehension. Local community leaders have voiced collective concern, emphasizing the close-knit nature of their fishing-dependent society.

    While official confirmation regarding organized search operations remains pending, civilian mobilization continues unabated. Community volunteers are coordinating shoreline monitoring efforts and disseminating information across neighboring districts. The incident has highlighted both the vulnerabilities of maritime occupations and the robust solidarity that emerges during crises within coastal communities.

  • Dwight Laviscount Named Instrumentalist of the Year at National Music Awards

    Dwight Laviscount Named Instrumentalist of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a celebration of musical excellence, Dwight Laviscount has been crowned Instrumentalist of the Year at Antigua and Barbuda’s prestigious National Music Awards. The honor recognizes his transformative impact on the nation’s instrumental music landscape through performance, education, and community development.

    Laviscount emerged victorious from a competitive field of finalists that included distinguished musicians Dalma ‘Boogie’ George and Javonte Chattel. The selection committee particularly highlighted his pioneering work in establishing Integral Music—an innovative initiative dedicated to fostering musical collaboration and nurturing emerging talent across the Caribbean nation.

    The award ceremony spotlighted Laviscount’s extensive educational outreach, including his organization of specialized clinics for young musicians at multiple schools nationwide. His commitment to professional development remains ongoing through advanced studies at the renowned Berklee College of Music, while his performance career demonstrates remarkable versatility through cross-genre collaborations that have enriched Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural tapestry.

    During his acceptance speech, Laviscount emphasized the collective nature of artistic achievement. ‘This recognition extends beyond personal accomplishment—it’s about stewardship and building pathways for those who follow,’ he reflected. ‘We bear responsibility not merely to excel individually, but to establish legacies that empower future generations of musicians.’

    The artist gratefully acknowledged both divine guidance and the steadfast support of his wife, who attended the ceremony. The Instrumentalist of the Year award constitutes a cornerstone of the National Music Awards, which annually celebrates the diverse contributors—from performers to producers—who shape the nation’s vibrant music industry.

  • Repairs to All Saints Clinic Near Completion

    Repairs to All Saints Clinic Near Completion

    The extensive renovation project at All Saints Clinic is approaching its final stages, with government officials confirming that a formal announcement regarding the facility’s status is imminent. The disclosure emerged during the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, where Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, addressed public concerns about the project’s timeline while affirming substantial progress has been made.

    Merchant confirmed the near-completion status when questioned about the clinic’s rehabilitation, stating, “Work has been done. It’s near completion.” He further indicated that an official update from the relevant ministry would be forthcoming, potentially within days.

    The Ministry of Works has been overseeing the comprehensive repairs, which address structural and maintenance issues that have accumulated over multiple decades. Merchant emphasized the complexity of these long-overdue improvements, noting that many repairs date back to the early 2000s and cannot be accomplished “at the snap of a finger.”

    The communications director explained that the ministry has been systematically working to upgrade government facilities across the board, describing the process as time-intensive but necessary. “The Ministry of Works has been doing its best in trying to get all of government’s facilities up to speed,” Merchant stated, acknowledging both the public’s patience and the methodical approach required for proper infrastructure rehabilitation.

  • ABS to Relocate to Caribbean Cinemas Complex on Friars Hill Road

    ABS to Relocate to Caribbean Cinemas Complex on Friars Hill Road

    Antigua and Barbuda’s national broadcasting service, ABS Television, is poised to transition to new operational headquarters at the Caribbean Cinemas complex on Friars Hill Road within a 60-day timeframe. The relocation initiative was formally announced by government representatives during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing session.

    Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications within the Office of the Prime Minister, provided official confirmation that contractual agreements for the new premises have been finalized. “The contract for your new location has been signed,” Merchant stated. “The Department of Works will commence operations immediately later this week, specifically tomorrow and throughout the weekend, to conduct comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the facilities.”

    The strategic move aims to resolve persistent infrastructural challenges that have hampered operations at the broadcaster’s current location. Merchant emphasized that the relocation will provide ABS Television with a significantly improved working environment designed to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.

    During the transition period, the Public Works Department will implement temporary modifications at the existing ABS facilities to maintain broadcasting continuity. Government officials anticipate the entire relocation process will be completed within two months or potentially sooner, marking a significant infrastructure upgrade for the national broadcaster.

  • Health Reform Must Start Beyond Hospitals, Minister Says

    Health Reform Must Start Beyond Hospitals, Minister Says

    In a landmark address to the South Leeward Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph unveiled a comprehensive national health reform strategy targeting Antigua and Barbuda’s growing epidemic of chronic diseases. Speaking under the theme “The Cause for Health Reform,” Minister Joseph framed health improvement as a collective national responsibility extending far beyond healthcare institutions alone.

    The Minister praised the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its historical leadership in promoting holistic wellness principles, including nutrition, physical activity, and temperance. He contextualized current health challenges within what experts term an ‘epidemiological transition’ – the global shift from infectious diseases to chronic conditions as primary causes of mortality.

    Alarming statistics reveal that approximately 82% of deaths in Antigua and Barbuda now stem from non-communicable diseases including cardiovascular conditions, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses. Minister Joseph identified widespread risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol consumption as driving this public health crisis.

    The government’s multipronged response includes enhanced epidemiological surveillance systems to detect emerging health threats more effectively. A major cervical cancer elimination initiative will expand HPV testing, improve screening access, and strengthen early detection services.

    Significant mental health reforms are underway, including the development of a new Mental Health Bill designed to strengthen protections for individuals with mental illness and ensure rights-based care delivery. The recently established Behavioural Health Centre expands access to assessment, treatment, and community-based support services.

    Minister Joseph reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing National Health Insurance, characterizing it as both a financing mechanism and a statement of principle that healthcare constitutes a fundamental right rather than a privilege.

    The address concluded with a call for collaborative action, emphasizing that sustainable health improvement requires partnership between government, communities, civil society, and faith-based organizations. The Minister commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s health initiative and pledged ongoing cooperation to build a healthier nation for present and future generations.

  • PMS Serenaders Win School Steel Band of the Year at National Music Awards

    PMS Serenaders Win School Steel Band of the Year at National Music Awards

    Princess Margaret School’s musical ensemble, The PMS Serenaders, achieved top honors at the National Music Awards ceremony on Tuesday evening, securing the prestigious title of School Steel Band of the Year. The annual event celebrates exceptional talent across Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant music industry, honoring artists, musicians, and cultural contributors nationwide.

    The Serenaders triumphed over fellow finalist Irene B. Williams Secondary School in a category dedicated to recognizing outstanding scholastic steel band performances. During the acceptance ceremony, a band representative emphasized the collective effort behind their victory, acknowledging the dedication of all members who shared the stage.

    ‘Good evening everyone. While you witnessed numerous performers tonight, I cannot accept this recognition alone—every member of our ensemble has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and hard work,’ the representative stated in an emotional address.

    The group outlined ambitious future plans extending beyond academic boundaries, expressing aspirations to function as a year-round community musical institution. ‘Our mission extends beyond school performances. We aim to champion music education broadly and establish ourselves as a continuous community band presence,’ the representative added, highlighting their commitment to musical development outside traditional educational frameworks.

    The National Music Awards ceremony serves as a cornerstone event for Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural calendar, systematically acknowledging excellence across multiple dimensions of the nation’s music industry while inspiring future generations of performers.

  • Youth Mental Health Fund to Launch March 18 in Antigua and Barbuda

    Youth Mental Health Fund to Launch March 18 in Antigua and Barbuda

    Antigua and Barbuda is poised to launch a groundbreaking mental health initiative as the Antigua and Barbuda Holistic Coalition (ABHC) announces the official commencement of its Youth Mental Health Fund on March 18, 2026. This pioneering program will provide substantial financial assistance to young citizens seeking mental health services across the twin-island nation.

    The comprehensive scheme will offer eligible youth vouchers worth up to EC$240 annually to access critical mental health services including individual counseling, family therapy, group sessions, psychiatric care, and psychological evaluations. The program specifically targets residents aged 6 to 25 who are either currently receiving or seeking mental health support.

    Strategic implementation will feature three distinct application cycles throughout 2026, with families permitted multiple applications. However, the program establishes clear parameters: recipients cannot exceed the EC$240 annual cap, and all vouchers must be utilized within 90 days of approval. Funding allocation will be contingent upon both eligibility and resource availability.

    In preparation for the launch, ABHC has curated a network of verified mental health professionals who have formally partnered with the initiative. These practitioners represent diverse specializations and service age groups:

    – Dr. Chenelle Joseph, MD (Internal Medicine and Psychiatry) serving ages 10-25
    – Feona Charles-Richards, MSc (Counselling Psychology) serving ages 6-25
    – Kendra Telesford, M.A.C.P. (Canadian Certified Counsellor) serving ages 6-25
    – Nicola Reefe-Babb, MSc (Counselling Psychology) serving ages 13-25
    – Regina Apparicio, MSc (Counselling Psychology) serving ages 18-25
    – Terese Millet-Joseph, MSc (Counseling Psychology) serving ages 20-25

    The coalition has verified all professional credentials through supporting documentation while maintaining that selection of providers remains the responsibility of applicants and families. ABHC explicitly notes it does not guarantee services nor monitor the clinical care provided by listed professionals.

    Prospective applicants can access the application portal through the coalition’s official event page as this transformative initiative seeks to dramatically improve mental health accessibility for youth and families throughout Antigua and Barbuda.