Browne Says Grants Covered Most CHOGM Hosting Costs
Prime Minister separates event expenses from infrastructure works accelerated for the summit
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says grants and outside contributions covered most of the CHOGM hosting expenses he outlined during a November 7 radio broadcast.
Responding to questions about the cost of the meeting, Browne put the event expenditure under discussion at just over $20 million and estimated that at least 80 per cent was covered by grants.
He distinguished that estimate from capital works, including roads, which he said formed part of the government’s wider infrastructure programme and had been accelerated for CHOGM.
Browne cited contributions towards the National Performing Arts Centre, transport and related preparations. Among the support he identified was US$1 million from India, which he said helped finance motorcycles and executive vans.
He said vehicles purchased for the meeting would remain available for future conferences and other official uses. He also suggested that some could be lent to neighbouring countries hosting similar events.
The Prime Minister further pointed to security assistance and training provided by international partners, saying those contributions added value beyond the cash support received.
His remarks provided an estimate of costs and contributions rather than an itemised financial statement. He did not present a final audited expenditure report during the discussion.
Browne argued that the retained infrastructure, equipment and international relationships should be considered when assessing the meeting’s longer term value.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/11/11/browne-says-grants-covered-most-chogm-hosting-costs. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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