Minister Kiz Johnson to Attend OECS Human and Social Development Meeting
Minister of State Kiz Johnson will represent Antigua and Barbuda at the 10th OECS Council of Ministers Meeting on Human and Social Development in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with discussions focused on strengthening social protection and inclusion across the region.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, Hon. Kiz Johnson, has left the island to represent Antigua and Barbuda at the 10th OECS Council of Ministers Meeting on Human and Social Development, scheduled for October 7–8, 2026, in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
The meeting will take place under the theme, “Advancing Social Protection in the OECS: Policy, Practice and Learning.”
Ministers responsible for human and social development will review progress on regional priorities, provide strategic policy direction and strengthen cooperation on issues affecting communities across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States.
Discussions will address social protection, social inclusion, gender equality, child protection, ageing, disability and youth development, alongside other key human and social development matters.
The meeting will also provide an opportunity to assess the implementation of previous Council decisions, consider emerging regional priorities and examine policy recommendations aimed at advancing inclusive, resilient and sustainable social development.
The incoming Chair of the Council, Hon. Shevern John, Minister for Social Welfare and Community Empowerment, Ecclesiastical Affairs and National Heritage of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, will lead the regional forum.
Minister Johnson’s participation will provide an opportunity for Antigua and Barbuda to contribute to these discussions and exchange experiences with regional counterparts on strengthening support for vulnerable people and improving social development outcomes.
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Comments (3)
Gone to the dogs October 5, 2026, 6:05 AM
I wonder if the Welfare department got an office yet … I wonder if the public is now able to access welfare services ..no phone line …Hotline is down .. Welfare officer are overworked and expected to work in poor condition but you get travel to “represent” Antigua to speak on social protection issues and the vulnerable population yet the welfare system in Antigua has gone to the dogs …madness
ReplyJuju Bee October 5, 2026, 7:11 AM
I think a lot of progress has been made at the Social transformation Ministry, but people are still complaining that the most vulnerable are not being reached. They should maybe have a contact person in every community to identify those most in need.
ReplyUnfiltered View October 5, 2026, 9:38 AM
I love Minister Johnson. This is a great opportunity for Antigua and Barbuda to contribute to important regional discussions on human and social development. Strengthening social protection and ensuring that vulnerable groups are not left behind are essential to building stronger, more inclusive Caribbean communities. Wishing Minister Johnson productive discussions and a successful meeting.
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