Local News
1349 articles
ECCB Governor Warns Falling Populations Pose Serious Risk to Regional Economies
ECCB Governor Dr. Timothy Antoine has warned that six of eight Eastern Caribbean Currency Union member states face stagnant or declining populations, cautioning that the trend poses a serious long-term threat to regional economic growth. He called for diaspora engagement and carefully managed skilled immigration as part of the bank's broader development strategy.
Red Cross Launches Caribbean Risk Portal to Boost Regional Disaster Preparedness
The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society has launched the Caribbean Risk Portal, a new digital platform at Caribbean-Risks.org offering island-specific guidance on preparing for hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. The launch comes ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Letter: Antiguan Calls for Two-Year Election Cycle to End Pre-Poll Service Spree
A letter published by Antigua News Room calls on the next Parliament to implement constitutional reform establishing two-year election cycles, arguing that basic public services are only delivered in the lead-up to by-elections and general elections.
ABLP's Dwayne George Defends Bolans Playing Field Amid Unfit-for-Play Claims
ABLP candidate for St. Mary's South Dwayne George has rejected claims that the Bolans playing field is unfit for use, citing a recent football match held under newly installed lighting as proof of the facility's operational condition.
How Antigua and Barbuda Built One of the Caribbean's Thriving Online Casino Markets
Antigua and Barbuda's online casino market is thriving, fuelled by decades of regulatory stability, mobile accessibility, advancing technology and sophisticated player retention strategies. According to Antigua News Room, the country's early entry into online gaming regulation has given it a lasting competitive edge in the regional digital entertainment landscape.
Senator Freeland Builds Momentum in St. George Through Community Engagement
Senator the Hon. Michael Freeland is making his mark in the St. George constituency through a series of community contributions, infrastructure initiatives, and daily canvassing, as the constituency prepares for an electoral contest. According to Antigua News Room, his hands-on approach is generating growing confidence among residents on the ground.
ECCB Reaffirms EC Dollar Peg to US Dollar Ahead of 50th Anniversary
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank has reaffirmed there are no plans to change the EC dollar's fixed peg to the US dollar, with Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine citing a near-99 percent backing ratio as the bank prepares to mark the arrangement's 50th anniversary in July.
Police Warn of Rising Road Collisions Ahead of Busy Easter Weekend
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda is urging drivers to take extra care on the roads this Easter weekend, as collision numbers have risen to 637 so far in 2026, up from 621 during the same period last year. Two road fatalities have already been recorded this year, with authorities citing speeding and inattentive driving as key factors.
Tourism Authority Backs 12th AUA Rohrman Trail & Swim Fest as International Athletes Flock to Antigua
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has returned as Gold Sponsor for the 12th AUA Rohrman Trail & Swim Fest, set for April 11–12, 2026, with over 100 international athletes already registered from more than a dozen countries. The partnership aims to boost sports tourism and generate global exposure for the twin-island destination.
Attorney General: Smoking Laws Under Review After Next General Election
Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has announced that laws governing public smoking will be reviewed after the next general election, with authorities considering alternatives to arrest as the primary enforcement tool. Existing restrictions under the Tobacco Control Act 2018 and the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Act 2024 remain in force in the interim.
ABFC Partners With Caribbean Music Producer Kitwana Israel to Elevate Antiguan Sound
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has partnered with internationally recognised Caribbean music producer Kitwana Israel to develop a Carnival rhythm and provide local artistes with professional industry exposure. The initiative is part of the Commission's broader strategy to grow and elevate the nation's creative industries.
Construction Begins at Pares Community Center
Construction is underway at the Pares Community Center, according to ABLP St. Peter candidate Rawdon Turner, with the project aimed at fostering community growth and opportunity.
Solar Street Lights Being Installed Across St. Peter Constituency
ABLP St. Peter candidate Rawdon Turner says upgraded solar street lights are being installed across the constituency, with new fixtures already lighting sections of the community.
Festivals Commission Postpones Antigua Carnival 2026 Launch from April Date
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has postponed the official Carnival 2026 launch, originally scheduled for April 11 at the Rising Sun Grounds, due to scheduling conflicts. A new date is expected to be announced soon.
Young Farmers Shine as Inter-school Garden Competition Reaches New Heights
Antigua and Barbuda's 2026 Inter-school Garden Competition has concluded with judges praising record levels of student knowledge and participation across preschool, primary, and secondary categories. Ottos Comprehensive School claimed the top prize as overall champion.
Antigua and Barbuda Enters Election Mode as Parliament Dissolved
Parliament has been dissolved in Antigua and Barbuda, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne invoking Section 60 of the Constitution and setting the stage for a general election expected within weeks. The ABLP enters the race leading in the polls, while the Democratic National Alliance has confirmed it will not contest the vote.
MP Maria Browne Completes Three-Day Bulk Waste Drive in St John's Rural East
MP Maria Vanessa Browne led a three-day bulk waste collection exercise in St John's Rural East over the weekend, resulting in the removal of large volumes of waste and the targeting of derelict vehicles across several communities. The initiative was praised for its strong community participation.
UPP Candidate Warns of Possible UK, EU Visa Restrictions on Antiguans and Barbudans
UPP candidate Ashworth Azille has warned that Antigua and Barbuda could face visa restrictions from the United Kingdom and European Union, linking the potential measures to concerns over the country's Citizenship by Investment Programme. Azille also raised alarm over high US visa refusal rates and shortened approved stay durations for Antiguan travellers.
Minority Leader Withholds Support for Festivals Commission Bill, Demands Broader Consultation
Senate Minority Leader David Massiah has refused to support the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Bill 2026, citing inadequate consultation and insufficient time for senators to review the legislation. While backing the concept of a formal festivals authority, Massiah is calling on the government to pursue a more inclusive process before moving the bill forward.
Antigua and Barbuda Records Nearly 14,000 Cruise Visitors in a Single Day
Antigua and Barbuda recorded more than 13,900 cruise passengers and crew arriving in a single day at the close of March, with four vessels docking across St. John's and Falmouth Harbours. The milestone underscores the continued strength of the country's cruise tourism sector.