标签: Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • Christmas Camp to Be Held at the National Public Library; Registration Begins This Coming Monday

    Christmas Camp to Be Held at the National Public Library; Registration Begins This Coming Monday

    The National Public Library is transforming into a holiday wonderland this December with its specially curated Christmas Camp program. Beginning registration on Monday, 8th December, the ‘Singing Santa’s Work Fu Um Christmas Camp’ promises an immersive seasonal experience for young participants aged 4 to 14.

    The week-long camp, scheduled from 15th to 19th December, will operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a comprehensive fee of $100 payable during registration. Parents can complete enrollment procedures at the library between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily following the registration opening.

    This carefully designed program features an array of festive activities including Christmas crafts workshops, vocal training sessions, dance instruction, Christmas karaoke, educational field trips, beach picnics, pajama parties, and various holiday-themed engagements. The curriculum aims to balance entertainment with educational value while fostering creativity and seasonal spirit.

    A standout feature of the camp will be the Grand Finale Christmas Fiesta at Sun City Bar & Restaurant, where participants will showcase their talents before families and community supporters. The event will feature performances, musical entertainment, and collective holiday celebrations.

    For convenience, Sun City offers an optional daily meal bundle at $25 per child, comprising lunch, a beverage, and water. Parents may select this nutritional option during the registration process.

    Organizers have emphasized their commitment to creating a secure, joyful, and enriching environment where children can explore their creativity while embracing traditional holiday values. With limited spaces available, early registration is strongly recommended to ensure participation in this unique seasonal offering.

  • Four Antigua Resorts Nominated for USA TODAY’s Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Award

    Four Antigua Resorts Nominated for USA TODAY’s Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Award

    Antigua’s tourism sector receives significant recognition as four of its premier resorts secure nominations for the coveted USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The distinguished properties—Royalton Antigua, Hermitage Bay, Galley Bay Resort and Spa, and Curtain Bluff—have all been shortlisted in the highly competitive ‘Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Resort’ category, reinforcing the island’s status as an elite Caribbean getaway destination.

    This annual awards program, administered by USA TODAY, celebrates exemplary achievements within the hospitality industry, with recipients determined exclusively through democratic public voting. The selection process underscores consumer preferences and satisfaction levels, making the nominations particularly meaningful for both the resorts and the destination as a whole.

    Antiguan tourism authorities have enthusiastically endorsed these nominations, interpreting them as validation of the island’s commitment to delivering superior service standards and exceptional accommodation experiences. The recognition serves as a powerful endorsement of Antigua’s competitive positioning within the luxury travel market.

    The voting window remains open until December 29, 2025, providing an opportunity for both local supporters and international visitors to participate in determining the ultimate winners. The 10Best awards platform encompasses comprehensive travel categories, evaluating everything from hotel excellence to destination attractions and unique experiential offerings across the global tourism landscape.

  • PHOTOS: Roadworks Underway in Willikies

    PHOTOS: Roadworks Underway in Willikies

    Transportation authorities in Willikies have issued a formal advisory to motorists as significant road infrastructure upgrades progress throughout the region. Construction crews are currently executing comprehensive improvements to the area’s roadway network, requiring temporary traffic modifications and reduced speed limits in active work zones.

    The ongoing enhancement initiative, part of a broader infrastructure development plan, aims to substantially improve road quality, safety standards, and transportation efficiency for residents and commercial vehicles alike. While specific completion timelines remain undisclosed, officials confirm the project has entered its most intensive phase of implementation.

    Commuters traversing the Willikies area are strongly encouraged to allocate additional travel time and maintain heightened awareness of changing traffic patterns. Alternative routes are recommended where feasible to minimize congestion delays. The transportation department emphasizes that all temporary inconveniences will yield long-term benefits through enhanced road safety and improved driving conditions upon project completion.

    Regular updates regarding traffic flow adjustments will be communicated through official government channels and local media outlets to keep the public informed of progress and any schedule modifications.

  • Celia Roberts-Morgan named Coordinator for CHOGM 2026

    Celia Roberts-Morgan named Coordinator for CHOGM 2026

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced the strategic appointment of distinguished business consultant Celia Roberts-Morgan as Coordinator of the National Task Force for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). This significant appointment positions Roberts-Morgan at the helm of the CHOGM Secretariat, headquartered within the Ministry of Trade on Friar’s Hill Road.

    In her pivotal role, Roberts-Morgan will exercise executive oversight of multiple specialized sub-committees tasked with the comprehensive planning and execution of all summit-related events. Her extensive portfolio includes direct support for the committee organizing the prestigious CHOGM Business Forum, alongside other major ancillary gatherings such as the People’s Forum, the Women’s Forum, and the Youth Forum.

    The official announcement was made public on Tuesday during a Task Force assembly held at the American University of Antigua, where chairs of the various sub-committees presented detailed progress reports on the ongoing preparations.

    Roberts-Morgan brings a formidable portfolio of expertise to this high-stakes position. With over twenty years of dedicated experience in organizational effectiveness and public-sector transformation throughout the Caribbean region, she is a recognized authority in her field. She serves as the founder and principal consultant at Roberts & Associates, a firm renowned for advising national governments, leading financial institutions, and major hospitality enterprises on critical matters of governance, policy reform, and enhancing institutional performance.

    Expressing her commitment to the role, Roberts-Morgan stated she was ‘deeply honoured’ by the confidence bestowed upon her. She described the appointment as ‘a profound responsibility and a significant moment for our nation as we prepare to welcome the Commonwealth family,’ further pledging to ‘serve with integrity and dedication.’ She also emphasized her anticipation for collaborating with ‘national, regional, and international partners to ensure CHOGM 2026 reflects the very best of who we are.’

    The appointment has garnered strong endorsements from senior government officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Task Force Head Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, and High Commissioner to the UK Karen-Mae Hill, who collectively extended their congratulations and wishes for her success in steering the nation towards a landmark event.

  • Hangzhou University Delegation Strengthens Medical Ties with Antigua and Barbuda

    Hangzhou University Delegation Strengthens Medical Ties with Antigua and Barbuda

    A high-level academic delegation from Hangzhou University has concluded a significant diplomatic mission to Antigua and Barbuda, marking a substantial advancement in Sino-Caribbean medical cooperation. The visit, characterized by extensive bilateral discussions, has yielded concrete commitments toward enhancing healthcare infrastructure and medical education in the Eastern Caribbean nation.

    During the multi-day engagement, university representatives and Antiguan health officials formulated comprehensive strategies addressing critical healthcare challenges. The collaborative framework encompasses several pioneering initiatives, including the establishment of specialized telemedicine consultation services connecting Chinese medical specialists with Antiguan practitioners. Additionally, both parties finalized plans for specialized physician training programs and clinical knowledge-sharing platforms.

    Beyond immediate healthcare improvements, the partnership incorporates significant academic components. Hangzhou University will facilitate scholarship opportunities for Antiguan medical students pursuing advanced studies in China, while simultaneously organizing periodic medical expert exchanges and professional development workshops for Caribbean healthcare personnel.

    This bilateral cooperation represents a strategic expansion of China’s global health diplomacy efforts within Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states. The initiatives are specifically designed to build sustainable medical capacity through technology transfer and educational infrastructure development rather than temporary assistance.

    The strengthened partnership aligns with broader international development objectives while addressing specific regional health disparities. Through this sustained academic-medical collaboration, both institutions aim to create enduring improvements in Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare delivery systems and medical education standards, potentially establishing a replicable model for South-South cooperation in global health.

  • A National Treasure: Celebrating Sir Lionel Alexander “Max” Hurst, KCN

    A National Treasure: Celebrating Sir Lionel Alexander “Max” Hurst, KCN

    In the corridors of Antigua and Barbuda’s government, December 4th stands as a date of profound significance—marking the birthday of Sir Lionel Hurst, a multifaceted statesman whose enduring influence continues to shape the nation’s trajectory. As Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Minister, Sir Lionel represents a rare blend of diplomatic expertise, historical knowledge, and administrative excellence that has served the Caribbean nation across multiple decades.

    Sir Lionel’s distinguished career embodies exceptional public service across numerous domains. Following his legal training and admission to the bars of New York and Florida, he embarked on an illustrious diplomatic career representing Antigua and Barbuda both in Washington and at the United Nations. During his ambassadorial tenure, he became renowned for his articulate advocacy on behalf of small island developing states, regional cooperation frameworks, and international justice mechanisms. Colleagues remember him as the voice that ensured Antigua and Barbuda’s perspectives resonated consistently within global forums.

    Beyond diplomacy, Sir Lionel has established himself as an intellectual force through his scholarly contributions. His authored work ‘Democracy by Diplomacy’ provides critical insights into the political evolution of Antigua and Barbuda, while his public lectures and media commentary have positioned him as a respected educator. Within government circles, he is often regarded as an unofficial teacher who provides essential historical context during policy deliberations.

    His current role as Chief of Staff places him at the epicenter of national decision-making, where he provides strategic guidance, institutional memory, and continuity between past and present governance approaches. Colleagues characterize him as a steady, principled adviser whose insights routinely inform government actions and policies.

    Adding to his remarkable narrative is the profound personal story of resilience—in 2008, his sister Ivy Hurst donated a kidney that extended his life and preserved his invaluable contributions to national development. This act ensured the continuation of a legacy that includes mentoring generations of public servants and shaping the very fabric of Antigua and Barbuda’s political consciousness.

    His formal recognition as Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation (KCN) stands as official acknowledgment of decades devoted to diplomatic excellence, national development, and unwavering public service. As government colleagues celebrate his birthday, they honor not just his professional achievements but the intellectual humility and deep patriotism that define his character.

  • Level Up Team Sends Relief Supplies to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

    Level Up Team Sends Relief Supplies to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

    In a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity, the Antigua-based team ‘Level Up’ has successfully organized a comprehensive relief drive to aid Jamaican communities devastated by the recent Hurricane Melissa. Operating under its foundational motto, “It’s nice to be nice,” the humanitarian group spent several weeks gathering critical supplies, including non-perishable food items, clothing, and other essential goods from local donors. A dedicated force of volunteers meticulously sorted, organized, and packed all donated materials into large shipping barrels, ensuring their readiness for distribution. These vital supplies are now en route to the island nation, where they will be delivered to families most affected by the catastrophic storm. The initiative was described by organizers as being deeply motivated by the longstanding cultural and historical bonds shared between Antigua and Barbuda and Jamaica, which added a profound layer of significance to the humanitarian mission. Leadership within the Level Up team has publicly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting the recovery and rebuilding efforts in Jamaica for as long as necessary, emphasizing that their mission of assistance continues well beyond the initial shipment of aid.

  • Family Thanks Public After Patient Meets Blood Donation Quota

    Family Thanks Public After Patient Meets Blood Donation Quota

    A family’s public appeal for blood donations to support a woman named Rudisha in her battle against a serious illness has culminated in a successful community-driven campaign. The breakthrough was announced this week through an online message from relative Jean Amallion, who expressed the family’s profound gratitude.

    Amallion described the public response as ‘overwhelming,’ emphasizing that every contribution—whether a social media share, comment, prayer, or blood donation—proved ‘invaluable’ during their period of crisis. Hospital officials have now verified that the critical threshold for necessary blood donors has been successfully met.

    While acknowledging this achievement as a significant milestone that brings substantial relief, the family continues to request ongoing spiritual support through prayers as Rudisha’s medical treatment progresses. The online update was accompanied by a recent photograph depicting Rudisha seated and smiling, offering a visual testament to her resilience.

    The family’s message concluded with a powerful call to action, reminding the broader public of the profound impact of blood donation: ‘It only takes a few minutes to create a lifetime difference.’ The situation highlights how community mobilization and modern social networks can directly contribute to critical healthcare outcomes.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Chamber, DeVry University Sign Education Pact

    Antigua and Barbuda Chamber, DeVry University Sign Education Pact

    In a strategic move to enhance workforce capabilities, the Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ABCCI) has entered into a landmark educational partnership with U.S.-based DeVry University. This collaboration grants private-sector employees and citizens of the nation unprecedented access to the American institution’s comprehensive online degree programs.

    The agreement was formally executed during a signing ceremony attended by key educational and institutional leaders. Dr. Errol Samuel, the former ABCCI president, and Scarlett Howery, DeVry’s Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, officiated the pact. The event also featured Dr. Jonah Greene, the newly appointed principal of the Antigua and Barbuda College for Advanced Studies (ABCAS), who provided the keynote address.

    Dr. Greene emphasized the government’s steadfast dedication to broadening educational opportunities as a cornerstone of national economic strategy. She highlighted that both Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Education Minister Daryll Matthew consistently champion educational advancement as fundamental to cultivating a more robust and competitive national workforce. This initiative represents a significant step in transforming that vision into tangible opportunity, directly aligning higher education with the evolving needs of the Antiguan and Barbudan economy.

  • PM Browne Dismisses Lovell’s Lawsuit Threat

    PM Browne Dismisses Lovell’s Lawsuit Threat

    A significant political confrontation has escalated in Antigua and Barbuda as United Progressive Party caretaker for All Saints West, Lennox Weston, vehemently denied allegations made by Prime Minister Gaston Browne regarding vehicle taxation. Weston characterized Browne’s claims as factually incorrect and part of a coordinated diversion tactic from the government’s expanding ‘Vehicle-gate’ controversy.

    Weston maintains that he fulfilled all tax obligations for his personally acquired vehicle in December 2021 and has initiated contact with the automotive dealership to obtain purchase documentation as he prepares legal proceedings against the Prime Minister. This exchange occurs amid sustained scrutiny over the administration of government-owned vehicles and allegations from opposition figures regarding mishandled public assets.

    The political dispute highlights deeper tensions regarding transparency in government asset management. Weston, in his statements, emphasized that Browne—who concurrently serves as Finance Minister—has consistently avoided addressing substantiated concerns about improper handling of public vehicles within government operations.

    Browne’s recent social media post has further intensified the conflict, demonstrating the Prime Minister’s determination to maintain his position despite Weston’s impending legal challenge. While no court documents have been formally submitted publicly, both political factions appear to be preparing for an extended battle that will unfold through both judicial channels and political arenas in coming weeks.