Samantha Marshall and Joanne Massiah Named Ambassadors-at-Large

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has appointed former government minister Samantha Marshall and former opposition senator Joanne Massiah as Ambassadors-at-Large, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen and reorganise the country’s diplomatic service.

The announcement was made Thursday during the post-Cabinet briefing, where Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the government is undertaking a review of diplomatic assignments as part of a wider effort to align foreign service roles with national priorities. 

Merchant said the Cabinet is seeking to ensure that experienced and qualified individuals are placed in positions that support Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign policy goals, economic interests, and international partnerships.

He noted that both Samantha Marshall and Joanne Massiah bring extensive experience in governance, law, and public service, which the government believes will strengthen the country’s diplomatic outreach.

According to Merchant, the Ambassadors-at-Large will be assigned specific portfolios and responsibilities from time to time, depending on national priorities and strategic needs identified by the government.

He explained that the appointments are part of a broader reassessment of the diplomatic corps, which typically follows general elections as administrations review existing postings and align them with updated policy objectives.

The government said the restructuring is aimed at strengthening the country’s international presence and improving engagement across key sectors, including trade, tourism, investment, education, climate resilience, and development cooperation.

The administration said it remains committed to expanding Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic footprint and ensuring that its foreign service reflects national priorities and development goals.