Every Independence season, we hear about how strong our economy is. The Prime Minister tells us that Antigua and Barbuda is “growing,” that our “per-capita income” is rising, and that the country is “solid, stable, and soaring.” But as an ordinary working Antiguan, I can’t help but wonder — where is this growth, and who is really feeling it?
Because it surely isn’t us, the everyday people.
I walk into the supermarket and watch the prices climb higher every week. A bag of rice, a tin of milk, even basic fruits — everything costs more. Light and water bills keep going up, and every time I hear about another “fuel surcharge,” I brace myself for a higher APUA bill.
Meanwhile, salaries remain the same. Most jobs still pay barely enough to cover rent, food, and transport. By the middle of the month, many of us are already broke.
So when the government says the economy is doing well, it honestly feels like someone is cooking the figures. Because the math doesn’t add up in our homes. If the economy is “booming,” why does life feel harder? Why are young people leaving for better opportunities abroad? Why do small businesses struggle to stay open while a few well-connected ones seem to get every contract and concession?
They talk about “per-capita income,” but that’s just an average that hides the truth — a few people at the top are doing extremely well, while the rest of us are just trying to survive. You can’t eat GDP growth. You can’t pay your light bill with per-capita income.
Antiguans and Barbudans are hardworking people. We don’t expect miracles. We just want fairness, opportunity, and a system that gives everyone a chance — not just the friends and family of those in power.
After 44 years of independence, we should not still be struggling to afford groceries and utilities in a country that’s supposedly “soaring.” It’s time for real talk and real change. Growth means nothing if the people can’t feel it.
Signed,
A struggling Antiguan
Because when the ecomony grows, only the greedy corrupt politicians get fatter and richer!
Ask Karma! Hahaha
Growth goes hand in hand with aspirations and retooling yourselves as well which means increasing your potential value and upping your skillset
As long as we have GDP, we can die hungry.
Went shopping today and bought one half bag of groceries the lady at cost pro told me is 214.00 . I dont understand
Try swimming to the top, for a change. Groveling in darkness and negativity trying to get noticed or become relevant won’t help. Misery loves company so that while you might get a loan of a temporary ear, you may just not be a suitable candidate for advancement. Finally, check your KARMA status. For real!
There are so many things you can do, apart from polluting our breathing space with your boring belly gripes. I can bet, though,that you will be in full attendance at that expensive, extravagant Tian Wynter show later! Happy Independence!
This is the reality many people face. headlines boast of economic growth, but everyday life tells a different story. GDP numbers don’t always translate into higher wages, stable jobs, or affordable living. It’s a reminder that growth must be inclusive, with policies that genuinely improve the lives of ordinary citizens, not just corporate profits.
Boss, you talking facts. Every Independence same thing big speech, big words, but my pocket still empty. Gas price high, groceries high, and when payday come, it gone same day. All now, we can’t get a raise. Growth for who? Certainly not for the mason, plumber, or supermarket cashier
My aunty who lives in Bolans leaves on pension. Well her children helps her but she depends on that little money and every month she stretching dollar after dollar. When they talk about ‘strong economy,’ I just shake my head. Bread used to be $3.50, now it’s $6. Light bill almost $400. I don’t see no strength in that
Economy strong, but I waiting all day for a single trip. Tourists coming, yes, but everything centralize to the big hotels. The small man don’t feel no benefit. Antigua sweet, but things hard, real hard
It’s hard to stay motivated when you see only the politically connected advancing. You work hard, study, do everything right, and still can’t get ahead. We’re told the country is stable and soaring, but it feels like we’re stuck on the same runway
Some folks wanna live above their means. If you make 400 a month and is noodles you can buy then do that. Many antiguans buy car before food. Many owe fast cash excell caribbean easy money everybody