Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host 2026 CHOGM summit

Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to host the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) from November 1st to 4th. The summit, themed ‘Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth’, will bring together leaders from 56 member nations to discuss climate resilience, trade, innovation, and equality. King Charles III is expected to attend the event.

To manage the summit, security services will be augmented by international support, including a contingent from the Cayman Islands Regiment. Authorities have established tightly controlled security zones in residential areas near the venue, requiring some residents to relocate or stay indoors during specific lockdown periods.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who will assume the Commonwealth chairmanship during the conference, described the summit as a ‘defining moment’ for the nation. However, the preparations have impacted local infrastructure projects. Browne acknowledged that resources from National Housing and Public Works were diverted to support the National Performing Arts Centre and roadworks required for the summit, leading to delays in road, kerb, and drainage improvements for the Oliver’s housing development. He assured residents that relief for these infrastructure issues is expected to begin in early 2027.