$3M Social Housing Fund, One Million Trees, and Island-Wide Clean-Up on the Agenda

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has advanced plans for a wide-ranging national housing renewal initiative, designed to replace derelict structures, expand affordable housing options, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration in housing and social development.

As part of the programme, Cabinet approved the establishment of a Social Housing Development Fund, beginning with an initial investment of $3 million.

The government will also acquire a block plant to produce construction blocks, which will be sold at concessional rates to low-income and vulnerable citizens.

To complement the housing renewal drive, a dedicated demolition unit will be created to remove unsafe and abandoned buildings across the country.
This effort will be carried out in partnership with the Central Board of Health, the Ministry of Social Transformation, the National Solid Waste Management Authority, and the Development Control Authority.

Beyond housing, Cabinet underscored its commitment to the environment, announcing support for the planting of one million trees annually.

This initiative will see the Ministry of Agriculture, the Department of the Environment, and the National Housing Company collaborate on expanding fruit and ornamental tree coverage nationwide.

The government is also accelerating clean-up and beautification campaigns. Excavators, heavy-duty trucks, and other equipment have been deployed to support monthly community clean-up efforts. Public education initiatives will accompany the campaign, focusing on waste disposal, recycling, and civic pride.

Cabinet officials stressed that building a clean, green, and healthy Antigua and Barbuda requires shared responsibility, with government, communities, and individuals all playing a role.