Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations to host the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) are progressing steadily, with government officials reporting significant advances across all key areas required to stage the prestigious international summit.

Cabinet received a comprehensive update this week from Antigua and Barbuda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and the Director General within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the country’s readiness for the event, which is expected to bring world leaders and senior officials from across the Commonwealth to the twin-island nation.

Officials advised Cabinet that planning efforts continue to move forward on schedule, covering logistics, security, transportation, accommodation, protocol, event management, and supporting infrastructure.

The Government was informed that international interest in CHOGM 2026 remains exceptionally high, with several participating countries already finalizing accommodation arrangements while many others continue to complete travel and booking plans.

According to the update, Antigua and Barbuda is expected to welcome a significant number of Heads of Government and senior representatives from Commonwealth nations, placing the country at the center of international attention during the summit. Positive responses have also been received from major international organizations and development partners that are expected to participate in the event.

Cabinet was further advised that Antigua and Barbuda has secured substantial support from international partners to assist with the successful staging of CHOGM. Assistance has been pledged in several critical areas, including transportation, security operations, cybersecurity, accreditation systems, technical expertise, equipment, and logistics.

Government officials noted that the support demonstrates confidence in Antigua and Barbuda’s ability to host one of the Commonwealth’s most important diplomatic gatherings.

Preparations are also underway to manage the anticipated influx of delegates and visitors. Airlines serving Antigua and Barbuda have been engaged regarding additional flight capacity and scheduling flexibility, while arrangements continue to ensure sufficient transportation services, accommodations, communications infrastructure, and emergency response capabilities during the summit.

Cabinet was informed that public interest in participating in the event remains strong. More than 800 individuals have already expressed interest in serving as volunteers, while over 130 Delegation Liaison Officers have been identified to provide direct support to visiting delegations.

Training programmes for volunteers and support personnel are expected to continue over the coming months to ensure high standards of service and professionalism.

Beyond the leaders’ summit, planning is also advancing for several accompanying events, including the Commonwealth Youth Forum, Women’s Forum, and Business Forum. Officials reported that the private sector has shown strong support for the event, contributing resources and services that will help enhance the overall visitor experience.

Security planning remains a major focus of preparations. Cabinet received updates on measures being implemented to address venue security, transportation security, cybersecurity, and confidentiality protocols. The Government said these efforts are being undertaken in collaboration with regional and international partners to ensure the safety of all participants.

Officials also highlighted ongoing coordination among government ministries, statutory bodies, educational institutions, healthcare providers, utility companies, and emergency services to ensure the smooth execution of the summit.

Infrastructure improvements, venue upgrades, road rehabilitation works, beautification projects, and technology enhancements are all progressing according to established timelines.

Cabinet expressed satisfaction with the progress made thus far and commended the National CHOGM Secretariat, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all stakeholders involved in planning and preparations.

The Government reiterated that hosting CHOGM 2026 presents a historic opportunity to showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership, culture, hospitality, and investment potential to a global audience.

Cabinet also expressed confidence that the country will successfully deliver a world-class summit that not only strengthens Antigua and Barbuda’s international profile but