The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has officially launched the Prime Minister’s Vision Initiative, an ambitious national programme that will provide free reading glasses to thousands of residents while expanding access to eye care services across the country.

The initiative, conceived by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and implemented through the Ministry of Health in partnership with RestoringVision, was launched on Thursday during a ceremony at the Villa Community Centre.

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Browne said the programme reflects his administration’s commitment to ensuring that quality healthcare remains accessible to every citizen, stressing that “vision is a human right.”

PM Gaston Browne speaking at the event

Under the first phase of the initiative, approximately 25,000 pairs of reading glasses will be distributed free of charge to adults aged 40 and older. The Prime Minister also announced plans for a second phase, which will provide 8,000 prescription eyeglasses to individuals who require more specialized vision correction.

Health Minister Michael Joseph described the initiative as a transformative moment for healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda, calling it “the renaissance of vision care” in the country.

He said the programme marks the beginning of a new era in eye health, one that will help residents live healthier, more productive and independent lives through improved access to essential vision services.

Joseph credited Prime Minister Browne for championing the initiative from its inception, noting that his leadership helped secure the partnerships and resources necessary to bring the programme to fruition.

The Health Minister also thanked international nonprofit organization RestoringVision for its collaboration, saying the partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when governments and global organizations work together to improve people’s quality of life.

Health Minister Michael Joseph speaking at the event

Also addressing the ceremony were Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Walton Webson, and RestoringVision’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Ambassador Keisha McGuire. Both praised the initiative and highlighted the importance of international partnerships in expanding access to eye care around the world.

The launch was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs E.P. Chet Greene, Permanent Secretaries Stacey Gregg-Paige and Edson Joseph, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Health, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and the Medical Benefits Scheme.

Healthcare professionals, nurses, clinic teams and volunteers who helped prepare for the nationwide rollout were also recognised for their contributions.

The Ministry of Health is encouraging all eligible residents aged 40 years and older to visit designated screening centres over the next two weeks to receive free vision screening and reading glasses where appropriate.