Cabinet Fast-Tracks Housing Plans, Expands Beautification and Food Security Initiatives

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening housing access, community development, and sustainable living.

At its most recent meeting, Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that citizens—especially those on the lower economic scale—have access to affordable and dignified housing. To this end, plans for new home construction in Jennings, Belmont, and other areas will be accelerated. Additional resources will also be directed to the HAPPI Programme, which provides assistance in building and repairing homes for the less fortunate.

Cabinet also commended the Minister for Works for progress made on the national beautification agenda. Recent initiatives include planting trees along major highways and acquiring five miles of guard rails to improve road safety and aesthetics. Ministries were encouraged to expand these greening efforts in collaboration with the Urban Renewal Ministry.

In a further push toward sustainability, Cabinet endorsed the upcoming Backyard Garden Competition, which will be launched on October 16.

The initiative will be broadened to include a School Gardens Competition and an Institutions Competition, with cash prizes on offer. These programmes are expected to foster food security, environmental awareness, and national pride.

Through these combined initiatives, government officials said the administration is signaling its long-term vision of “a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Antigua and Barbuda” where every citizen can enjoy improved living standards.