Festivals Commission Tasked with Turning Antigua and Barbuda’s Cultural Events into Economic Drivers

Antigua and Barbuda is looking to harness the economic potential of its cultural and creative industries with the appointment of a new Festivals Commission Board charged with overseeing the country’s major festivals and events.

The 12-member board was officially sworn in at Government House, with Elizabeth Makhoul returning as Chairperson and Ryan Johnson appointed Deputy Chairperson. The board will serve a two-year term ending in May 2028.

During the ceremony, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams highlighted the growing importance of the global creative economy, often referred to as the “orange economy,” and urged the commission to position Antigua and Barbuda to benefit from opportunities within the sector.

“The orange economy is growing at unprecedented rates,” Sir Rodney said, noting that industries such as music, entertainment, innovation and intellectual property are becoming increasingly important contributors to national economies around the world.

He said cultural events should not be viewed solely as celebrations but as tools for economic development capable of attracting visitors, generating employment and stimulating business activity.

“Events themselves bring people,” Sir Rodney told attendees. “When we had cricket, when we had music, that’s what brought visitors to Antigua. Marketing budgets alone cannot replicate what successful events accomplish.”

The newly appointed board members are Larissa Barnes, who will serve as Recording Secretary, along with Annette Aflak, Khan Cordice, Lynne Benjamin, Dwayne Mussington, Anika Davis, Okera Lee, Terrance Dyett, Devon Perry and Calbert Francis.

The commission was established under the Festivals Commission Act 2026, which formally created the body as a statutory corporation with responsibility for managing and developing national festivals, including Carnival and the One Nation Festival.

The legislation gives the commission greater autonomy and accountability, with dedicated governance and financial structures designed to strengthen the planning and execution of national events.

Sir Rodney stressed that collaboration among stakeholders would be critical to the commission’s success.

“Success depends on uniting stakeholders around shared purpose,” he said.

With its appointment taking effect from May 15, the board is expected to begin laying the groundwork for future festivals, with a focus on increasing visitor arrivals, boosting economic activity and elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural profile internationally.