Minister Turner Leads 16-City China Mission to Advance Housing and Major Infrastructure Projects

A government technical delegation led by Minister of Social and Urban Transformation, the Honourable Rawdon Turner, is undertaking an extensive 16-city mission across China aimed at identifying technologies, equipment, materials and strategic partnerships to advance Antigua and Barbuda’s housing and infrastructure development programme.

The delegation includes Deputy Director of Public Works Telly Cornelius, Public Works Engineer Nigel Francis, Public Works Senior Architect Randell Pyle, and Chairman of NAMCO Brian D’Ornellas.

During the mission, the team will visit manufacturers, engineering and construction companies, technology providers and other major industry operations across China. The delegation will also engage Chinese officials and industry leaders as it evaluates solutions that can be adapted to Antigua and Barbuda’s development needs.

A major focus will be housing, including construction systems and technologies that could allow the Government to build quality homes faster and more cost-effectively.

The delegation will also examine solutions for government office buildings, sewerage and wastewater systems, urban renewal, municipal infrastructure, construction equipment and other critical public works.

Minister Turner said the mission is focused on finding practical solutions that can translate into projects on the ground.

“We are not simply going to China to observe. We are going to identify solutions, establish partnerships and determine what can work for Antigua and Barbuda. Whether it is housing, sewerage, government buildings or other critical infrastructure, our objective is to find ways to deliver better, faster and at greater value for the people.”

The 16-city programme will allow Antigua and Barbuda’s technical team to assess technologies and products directly, engage manufacturers and engineers, and explore opportunities for cooperation, procurement and technology transfer.