photo by Everton Barnes
History will be created in Antigua and Barbuda next year with the hosting of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting from November 1-4, 2026,under the theme “Accelerating Partnership and Investments for a Prosperous Commonwealth”.
The official date and theme were announced earlier today at the official launch at Sandals Grande Antigua.
In attendance at the launch was several dignitaries including the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the Governor General Sri Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene.
Chair of the CHOGM Task Force Ambassador Clarence Pilgrim referred to this moment as an “exciting journey” in the history of Antigua and Barbuda.
“Today marks the start of an exciting journey to our nation and for our nation, as the entire Commonwealth family will be traveling here and meeting together.
“The unveiling of the official logo, theme, and dates for CHOGM 2026 is not merely ceremonial. It is a declaration of readiness, of commitment, and a call to unity and purpose of action. Hosting CHOGM is both an intense honor and a unique opportunity. It presents Antigua and Barbuda with a unique opportunity to showcase our nation’s resilience.
“Antigua and Barbuda, with a unique opportunity, will now be center stage and we are now known as a destination for international conferences, second to none. On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, I wish to thank all our partners, ministries, and stakeholders for the dedication and teamwork thus far. This journey ahead will require continued collaboration, but today, we celebrate the progress that we’ve made so far.
“As we reveal the logo, theme, and the dates of CHOGM 2026, let us be reminded that this is more than an event. It is a shared vision. It is a vision to build a future that is fair, more resilient, that is climate resilient andknowledgeable, and more importantly, create a more united commonwealth,” Pilgrim said in his welcoming remarks.
His sentiments were shared by PM Browne who mentioned that “it will be a CHOGM with a difference”.
He shared the commitment of the country to be an advocate for climate change, reparations and woman and youth involvement.
“Just as how our international cricketers, Sir Viv, Sir Andy, would have inspired others within the region and extra-regionally to lift their game, and would have reinvigorated the game, would have actually inspired the development of a number of world-class cricketers here in the Caribbean, so too will Antigua and Barbuda provide inspiration for the family of Commonwealth nations.
“In fact, I’m of the view that the next CHOGM will be a transformative CHOGM, one in which you will see transformative levels of cooperation and coordination and stronger partnerships.
“Partnerships in all aspects of our development, in education, in healthcare, in the transfer of technology, increased investments, and certainly increased trade,as we look inward within the Commonwealth to satisfy our own needs, taking into consideration the geopolitical tensions that are taking place globally. So, Antigua and Barbuda will be the catalyst to ensure that invigoration of the Commonwealth,” PM Browne said.
The launch saw a cultural display featuring pan, music and dance.
We have what it takes to pull this off. We can do it
I dont think people understand the importance of this meeting to the twin island state. So many benefits. Happy we can stage this major meeting
CHOGM 2026 is a huge opportunity for Antigua and Barbuda to shine on the global stage — let’s hope the theme of partnerships and investment translates into real benefits for the nation.
This is massive for the country. Hope the infrastructure and hotels will be ready on time though. We have a lot of work to do between now and 2026.
Love the theme! “Accelerating Partnership and Investments” that’s exactly what small islands like ours need. Let’s make it count, not just a photo op.