标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda has successfully resolved its water production deficit, yet significant distribution challenges persist, leaving numerous communities without reliable access. Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas confirmed the nation now possesses adequate production capacity to meet national demand, attributing ongoing supply interruptions to an aging and inefficient transmission network. The remarks were delivered during the commissioning ceremony of the new reverse osmosis plant at Barnacle Point.

The recently activated Barnacle Point facility contributes an additional two million imperial gallons per day to the national supply. This development follows the earlier launch of a one-million-gallon-per-day plant at Fryes Beach. These expansions are the result of a collaborative partnership between the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) and the Seven Seas Water Group, substantially boosting the country’s overall production capabilities.

Minister Nicholas delineated a clear distinction between the solved issue of production and the persistent problem of distribution. He openly acknowledged public frustration, noting that residents experiencing outages are typically unconcerned with technical explanations. This frustration places considerable political and social pressure on utility providers during service interruptions.

The government’s strategy is now squarely focused on the next critical phase: modernizing the transmission and distribution infrastructure. This comprehensive plan includes the large-scale replacement of decades-old pipelines and the integration of automation systems to enhance operational efficiency and response times. APUA Chief Executive Officer John Bradshaw has previously emphasized that these upgrades are indispensable for equitable water distribution across the island, even as production records are being surpassed.

Nicholas characterized the achievement in production as the completion of ‘the first leg of the relay.’ The remaining and more complex challenge involves ensuring that the increased water volume consistently reaches every household through a robust and modernized delivery network, while simultaneously managing public expectations throughout this transitional period.

Authorities in Antigua have launched a public appeal to help identify an elderly gentleman discovered in a disoriented state while wandering local streets. Despite initial efforts to secure appropriate care, officers encountered procedural limitations when Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital declined admission, citing the man’s status as a non-registered patient. The individual is currently receiving temporary care and protection at the St. John’s Police Station while investigators work to determine his identity and locate his family. Law enforcement officials are urging community members to come forward with any information that might assist in reuniting the gentleman with his loved ones. Those who recognize the individual or have knowledge of a missing person matching his description are encouraged to contact or visit the St. John’s Police Station immediately to facilitate his safe return home.

The Antigua and Barbuda hospitality sector is commemorating the profound legacy of Veneta Burton, recognized as a transformative pioneer whose contributions continue to shape the islands’ tourism landscape. The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) announced its tribute coincides with preparations for Season 3 of its Unveiling Hospitality Professional (UHP) series, for which Burton had been selected as a featured professional prior to her passing.

Industry colleagues are reflecting on Burton’s enduring impact through newly released video tributes that capture her mentorship legacy. Anreka Geness of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, featured in the 2023 UHP series, recounts both professional and personal experiences with Burton, highlighting the guidance and inspiration she provided to countless professionals across the sector.

The association noted that while Burton cannot physically appear in the upcoming season, her influence persists through the numerous careers she nurtured. Particular emphasis is placed on her transformative work in enhancing Barbuda’s hospitality sector development and visibility. Burton is remembered as a trailblazer whose passion for mentorship and professional development created lasting improvements in Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry, ensuring her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of hospitality professionals.

The nation of Antigua and Barbuda has taken a monumental stride in fortifying its water infrastructure with the formal inauguration of a state-of-the-art reverse osmosis facility at Barnacle Point. This critical new plant is engineered to yield an additional two million imperial gallons of potable water daily, substantially enhancing the country’s resilience against water scarcity.

This project represents the second major infrastructural achievement stemming from a collaborative public-private partnership between the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) and the Seven Seas Water Group. It follows the successful deployment of a one-million-gallon-per-day facility at Fryes Beach, which was commissioned the previous year.

During the inauguration ceremony, Melford Nicholas, the Minister responsible for utilities, emphasized the profound national significance of the endeavor. He declared water security to be synonymous with national security, stating that strategic investments, responsible management, and continuous public education are pivotal for economic protection, enhanced resilience, and environmental conservation.

Jason Peters, the Acting Water Business Unit Manager at APUA, hailed the event as a pivotal national milestone. He underscored the indispensable role of water in a small island developing state, describing it as a fundamental necessity for life itself. Peters articulated that the new plant symbolizes a profound commitment to guaranteeing reliable, safe, and sustainable water access for all citizens, both presently and for future generations.

Providing tangible evidence of progress, APUA Chief Executive Officer John Bradshaw revealed that the plant has been operational since mid-November, contributing to a notable surge in national water production. He reported a countrywide average output of 9.3 million gallons per day, with recent weeks witnessing repeated breakthroughs in production records. Bradshaw confirmed that the mission continues, with the ultimate goal being guaranteed water access for every household upon turning on their tap.

The future roadmap, as outlined by Bradshaw, includes the automation of the distribution network and the replacement of aging pipelines, some of which are nearly a century old. Ambitious plans for a further expansion were also announced, with a new 3.2-million-gallon-per-day reverse osmosis plant slated for development at Crabbes.

Henry Chirabi, Chief Executive Officer of Seven Seas Water Group, highlighted the project as a paradigm of efficient public-private partnership. He noted that the delivery of this essential infrastructure for fresh drinking water was achieved in under 24 months post-agreement. Chirabi also detailed the company’s performance-based model, which ensures financial accountability by linking payment strictly to the contractual delivery of specified water quantity and quality. He proudly noted that all six plant operators are local hires, reinforcing community involvement.

The ceremony was attended by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, signifying the high-level governmental support for the nation’s water security initiatives. While officials acknowledged that the increased production is already alleviating historical shortages, they unanimously stressed that sustained investment in modernizing transmission and distribution systems remains imperative to achieve equitable and consistent water supply across all communities.

In a demonstration of enduring commitment to their alma mater, the St. Joseph’s Academy Alumni Association has presented a substantial financial contribution to support ongoing infrastructure improvements. The ceremonial check handover, captured in accompanying visual documentation, featured Association Secretary Lenworth Johnson formally presenting a donation of $13,517.18 to Principal Rudolph Davis.

The event was attended by key alumni leadership, including Association President Dane Abbott and Treasurer Orden Joseph. During the presentation, President Abbott conveyed profound satisfaction regarding the association’s capacity to facilitate essential campus enhancements, while simultaneously revealing strategic initiatives are currently in development to secure even more substantial funding streams in the foreseeable future.

Providing a comprehensive financial overview, Treasurer Orden Joseph disclosed that the collective fundraising efforts dedicated exclusively to classroom rehabilitation have now reached an impressive sum of approximately $83,000. This latest contribution is particularly symbolic as it coincides with the institution’s 68th anniversary. Principal Davis accepted the donation with profound gratitude, emphasizing the profound impact such consistent alumni support has on preserving the school’s legacy and operational excellence.

A powerful coalition comprising the EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN), West Magic Bins Plus, and the Fitches Creek Residents Association (FCRA) has successfully executed a major bulk waste removal operation within the Fitches Creek community. This collaborative endeavor resulted in the elimination of three large skips filled with discarded household materials and waste, markedly enhancing both the visual appeal and ecological wellbeing of the area.

The strategic significance of Fitches Creek cannot be overstated, as it resides within the ecologically sensitive North East Marine Management Area (NEMMA). This positioning confers upon local residents a crucial role as guardians of essential wetland habitats. With World Wetlands Day 2026 approaching, attention focuses on these ecosystems that sustain vulnerable species including the West Indian whistling duck, various herons, and numerous other avian species dependent on wetland environments.

Beyond mere waste collection, this initiative represents a deeper cultural shift toward environmental accountability. Project Manager Britney McDonald emphasized this transformative aspect, noting that the project ‘reflects a growing sense of pride, ownership, and environmental responsibility within the Fitches Creek community.’ McDonald further observed that when residents actively engage in such efforts, ‘biodiversity conservation becomes a shared value that delivers real, visible results.’

The cleanup operation complements previous support from the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), demonstrating how community participation can amplify national waste management strategies. This public-private partnership model showcases the potential when corporate entities, civil society organizations, and local communities align their efforts toward common environmental goals.

McDonald highlighted the exemplary role played by West Magic Bins Plus, noting that such waste management entities ‘set a positive example for corporate social responsibility.’ The collective effort underscores the fundamental principle that ‘keeping our land and marine spaces clean is everyone’s responsibility.’

ESFN, as a nonprofit organization dedicated to sustainability and community empowerment across Small Island Developing States (SIDS), continues to address critical challenges including climate justice, biodiversity protection, youth development, and educational initiatives. Through programs like the Volunteer Explorer Program and World Wetlands Day Awareness campaigns, ESFN fosters innovative solutions to protect vulnerable marine and coastal ecosystems throughout the Caribbean region.

In a significant boost to educational resources, Rotary International’s District 7030 Interact Clubs have presented more than 150 books to the Antigua and Barbuda Public Library. This donation enhances access to educational and cultural materials for students and community members alike.

The formal handover ceremony was conducted at the library premises under the leadership of the District RYLA Chair. Participating clubs included:
– Antigua Grammar School & Antigua Girls’ High School Interact Club
– St. Anthony’s Secondary School Interact Club
– Christ the King High School Interact Club
– Antigua State College Interact Club

This contribution originated from the ‘Books Across Borders’ regional community service project, an integral component of the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) convened in November 2025. The initiative saw participation from youth delegates across 13 territories spanning from Antigua to Suriname, with each region contributing literature as a testament to regional collaboration and youth-driven service. The collection features works on local and regional history, cultural folklore, and tourism insights.

RYLA Chair Evangeline Allen, representing District Governor Soraya Warner-Gustave and all RYLA participants, highlighted the initiative’s foundational belief in education’s transformative power. ‘Each book here has journeyed across both physical and cultural boundaries to enrich this library,’ Allen stated. ‘Through this donation, we extend beyond sharing resources to offering encouragement, opportunity, and meaningful connections.’

She further emphasized that the project embodies Rotary’s dedication to literacy, education, and service, showcasing how young leaders can drive change with purpose and global consciousness.

Ms. R. Mannix, Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Public Library, gratefully acknowledged the donation, confirming that the books would substantially augment the library’s collections. She emphasized that these resources would advance the institution’s mission to provide open access to information and support lifelong learning while continuously promoting literacy. Mannix also expressed deep appreciation for the diligent efforts of District 7030’s student representatives in bringing the project to fruition.

The Books Across Borders initiative serves as a tangible demonstration of youth leadership and regional cooperation, effectively translating collaborative effort into enduring community benefit.