AGP Executive Report

West Indies at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium: Amir Jangoo (233) and captain Roston Chase (194) powered a record 401-run sixth-wicket stand as the Windies declared on 626/9, taking a 318-run lead over Sri Lanka; Sri Lanka were then bowled out for 101, leaving West Indies on course after Kemar Roach’s historic 300th Test wicket. Local Music & Carnival Media: The ABFC urged broadcasters and artistes to keep Antiguan and Barbudan music at the heart of Carnival year-round, with plans for a dedicated media booth at Carnival City to boost coverage. Police Probe: Police are investigating a shooting on South Street that left two teenage boys injured; both are in stable condition and investigators are seeking witnesses. Antigua Carnival Countdown: Antigua Carnival 2026 is one month away (July 25–Aug 4) under the “Feel the Rhythm” theme, with 11 days of soca, mas, steelpan and street energy. Fort James Renaissance Park: Cabinet has engaged a firm for coastal assessment and preliminary engineering design to reshape the area into a new tourism and entertainment draw. Good Humans 268: The environmental nonprofit launched a summer internship programme to build practical skills and support climate action across Antigua and Barbuda.

Cricket Fever: Amir Jangoo (233) and captain Roston Chase (194) smashed a record 401-run sixth-wicket stand as West Indies declared on 626-9, taking a 318-run lead over Sri Lanka in Antigua, with Sri Lanka 15-1 at stumps after Pathum Nissanka fell. Carnival Countdown: Antigua Carnival 2026 is one month away, running July 25–Aug. 4 under the “Feel the Rhythm” theme, with 11 days packed with soca, mas, steelpan, parades and major fetes. Local Governance & Titles: Government defended Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s use of “Right Honourable,” citing a Vice-Regal Warrant from December 2025 and eligibility tied to a fourth term. Arts & Culture: Elite Island Resorts and Reggae Ambassador Causion released a new Caribbean Heritage Month music video, “Feels Like I’m Dreaming,” filmed at The Verandah Antigua. Health Update: Cabinet approved expanding mammogram access with a second screening location—new equipment at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and the current unit moving to Villa Polyclinic. Sports Community: Good Humans 268 launched a Summer Internship Programme to train future environmental leaders across Antigua and Barbuda.

Cricket Fever: Amir Jangoo and captain Roston Chase smashed a record 401-run sixth-wicket stand to drive West Indies to 626/9 and a huge first-innings lead over Sri Lanka in Antigua, with Jayden Seales striking early to leave the visitors reeling at 15/1. Carnival Countdown: Antigua Carnival 2026 is officially one month away, running July 25–Aug 4 under the theme “Feel the Rhythm,” with 11 days of soca, mas, steelpan and summer festival energy. Local Governance & Titles: Government defended Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s use of “Right Honourable,” citing a Vice-Regal Warrant from the Governor General (Dec 2025) and noting Browne qualifies under the fourth-term rule. Tourism & Culture: Cabinet approved a public-private partnership for a new Yepton’s beachfront hotel, aiming to boost local ownership and investment. Arts & Music: Elite Island Resorts and Reggae Ambassador Causion released a new Caribbean Heritage Month music video, “Feels Like I’m Dreaming,” filmed at The Verandah Antigua. Community & Health: Mammogram services are set to expand with a second screening location at Villa Polyclinic, after a new machine is installed at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.

Cricket Buzz: West Indies steadied the first Test in Antigua after a shaky start, with Amir Jangoo and captain Roston Chase rescuing the innings and finishing Day 2 on 271/5, just 37 runs behind Sri Lanka. Media & Education: UNESCO teamed up with Antigua and Barbuda to train educators across the region on media and information literacy, using hybrid sessions and tools like Google Classroom to support inclusive learning. Tourism & Culture: Cabinet has engaged work to transform Fort James into the Renaissance Park, while Antigua Carnival 2026 is officially in the countdown (July 25–Aug 4) under “Feel the Rhythm.” Arts & Entertainment: Elite Island Resorts and Reggae Ambassador Causion released a new Caribbean Heritage Month music video, “Feels Like I’m Dreaming,” shot at The Verandah Antigua. Sports Community: The Antigua Vipers hosted visiting Virgin Islands swimmers for the Vipers Invitational, with athletes posting personal bests on Day 1. Health Update: Government plans to expand mammogram services by adding a second screening location at Villa Polyclinic. Local Governance: ABEC says St. Paul’s Registration Unit will close June 25–July 3 for essential maintenance.

Fort James Renaissance Park: Cabinet has engaged a company for a coastal assessment and preliminary engineering design to transform the iconic beach area into Fort James Renaissance Park, with a tourism and entertainment boost in the works. Electoral Services: ABEC says St. Paul’s Registration Unit (Horsford Hill) will close June 25–July 3 for essential building maintenance, with the Registration Officer reachable at 764-9043. Earthquake Readiness: A UWI seismologist warns Antigua and Barbuda must urgently strengthen earthquake monitoring, noting only three stations are currently operational across the twin-island state. Village Netball: Potters Stingers dominated Newfield 56-15, while Swetes/Roman Hill edged Grays Green Flyballers 29-23 in the Village Netball League. Music & Culture: Elite Island Resorts and reggae ambassador Causion released a new Caribbean Heritage Month music video, “Feels Like I’m Dreaming,” filmed at The Verandah Antigua. Cricket (WI vs SL): West Indies moved to 271/5 in reply to Sri Lanka’s 308, with Amir Jangoo 78* and Roston Chase 42* at stumps on Day 1’s follow-up. Health: Government will expand mammogram services by adding a second screening location—new equipment at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and relocating the existing unit to Villa Polyclinic.

Tourism & Travel: Air Canada keeps pushing into the Caribbean, adding a new premium Air Canada Café lounge at Québec City’s airport—good news for Antigua as Canadian arrivals stay a key driver. Heritage & Music: Elite Island Resorts and Reggae Ambassador Causion drop “Feels Like I’m Dreaming,” filmed at The Verandah Antigua, as part of Caribbean Heritage Month celebrations. Carnival Countdown: Antigua Carnival 2026 is officially one month away (July 25–Aug 4) under “Feel the Rhythm,” with steelpan, calypso, soca, mas and island-wide fetes. Food & Culture Recognition: Antigua and Barbuda earns a World Culinary Awards nomination for “Caribbean’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination 2026.” Government & Community: Cabinet confirms expanding the windfall profits tax to companies making over EC$1 million to fund free tertiary education, and plans a second mammogram screening location. Sports & Local Talent: Cricket West Indies moves toward an Antigua High Performance Centre with RFPs soon, while the island also gets a spotlight through the West Indies vs Sri Lanka Test at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Health & Safety: Saharan dust keeps air quality at moderate levels until Friday; residents are urged to take it easy if they’re sensitive to pollution.

Antigua Carnival Countdown: Antigua and Barbuda is officially one month out from Antigua Carnival 2026, running July 25–August 4 under the theme “Feel the Rhythm,” with steelpan, calypso, soca, mas’ and island-wide fetes. Tourism Investment: Cabinet has approved a public-private partnership to build a new hotel at Yepton’s, with up to EC$40 million planned and a push for greater Antiguan and Barbudan ownership, including possible support via the Citizenship by Investment Programme. Sports & Wellbeing: A clinical psychologist says injuries can hit athletes emotionally too, affecting identity and confidence—comments coming after national cyclist Tahjé Browne’s hit-and-run accident. Cricket Development: Cricket West Indies says it will begin procurement for an Antigua High Performance Centre, including an indoor facility, TV broadcast setup, a hotel, and a full-time academy. Regional STEM: The ECCB will host a free 2026 STEM Camp starting July 6 for ages 14–18 across ECCU member territories, using tech and leadership training. Local Travel & Culture: Jumby Bay Island has launched “Coco Beach,” a new 22,000 sq ft private beachfront estate now open for bookings. Public Safety: Antigua and Barbuda is under moderate Saharan dust conditions until Friday, with health guidance for sensitive groups.

Antigua Carnival Countdown: Antigua and Barbuda’s Antigua Carnival 2026 kicks off in just one month, running July 25–August 4 under the “Feel the Rhythm” theme, with steelpan, calypso, soca, mas and nonstop street energy. Cricket & Youth Pathways: Cricket West Indies says procurement is starting for an Antigua High Performance Centre, including an indoor cricket facility, TV broadcast setup and a full-time academy where academics and elite training go together. Local Cricket Culture: CWI CEO Chris Dehring credits Antigua’s party-stand culture for reshaping how cricket entertainment is experienced across the Caribbean and beyond. Sports Spotlight: Roston Chase leads West Indies into the first Test vs Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, aiming to finally turn Antigua form into a series win. Cycling Update: National cyclist Tahjé Browne is recovering after a hit-and-run; tests cleared him of broken bones, and police have charged a suspect linked to the June 20 crash. Community & Health: Antigua and Barbuda is developing new flood forecasting and warning procedures, while Saharan dust has pushed air quality to “moderate” levels until Friday. Regional/World News: CARICOM’s Secretary-General reappointment is under fresh legal fire as an independent opinion says the process was procedurally flawed; meanwhile, Venezuela faces major earthquake devastation and a state of emergency.

Antigua Carnival 2026 Countdown: With just one month to go, Antigua and Barbuda is gearing up for 11 days of music, culture, masquerade and steelpan from July 25 to August 4 under the theme “Feel the Rhythm.” Steelpan Spotlight: ABFC has officially launched Panorama 2026 after Pan in the City, presenting $165,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association as the steelband season kicks into gear. Music Rights Update: Copyright payment for “Get Rid Ah Dem” has finally been made after legal action, settling unauthorized campaign use tied to the song’s owner, Adrian Bailey. Youth & Culture: The panyard is being framed as a safe space and life path for young people, with Panache Steel Orchestra highlighting how sponsorship can keep steelpan accessible. Road Safety & Sports: National cyclist Tahjé Browne is recovering after a hit-and-run; police have charged Kishroy Harry, and the cycling federation is renewing calls for safer roads. Regional Arts/Community Links: Waltham Forest’s Connect2Reconnect pilot wrapped up with meetings and cultural engagement across Antigua, Barbuda and Dominica. Weather Watch: The Met Office reports air quality in the good range, while a small craft advisory warns of hazardous seas for mariners.

Cricket Spotlight: West Indies and Sri Lanka renew their Test rivalry in Antigua at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, with WI chasing a turnaround after a tough World Test Championship run and Sri Lanka pushing for a Lord’s final spot. Cycling & Safety: National cyclist Tahjé Browne is recovering after a hit-and-run; medical checks say no broken bones, but police have charged a driver after the crash and alleged attempt to leave the island. Regional Leadership: Antigua and Barbuda’s PM Gaston Browne takes the OECS Authority chairmanship as leaders meet in Antigua, with priorities ranging from climate resilience to trade and integration. Maritime Cooperation: Saudi Arabia launches a Caribbean Maritime Transport Sustainability project with the IMO, including Antigua and Barbuda, to strengthen maritime laws and policy capacity over two years. Tourism Tech Buzz: Long Bay Zen Resort plans an AI concierge, robotic services, and an over-water chapel as it targets high-spending visitors. Culture & Steelpan: ABFC launches Panorama 2026 and presents $165,000 to the Pan Association after Pan in the City. Health Watch: Antigua and Barbuda’s Cancer Centre opening is delayed again to early fall/September due to repairs, unserviced equipment, and specialist staffing. Weather Alert: A Small Craft Advisory warns of hazardous seas for mariners through Wednesday.

West Indies vs Sri Lanka Tests in Antigua: The rivalry resumes Thursday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, with West Indies chasing a first series win in 23 years while Sri Lanka push for a World Test Championship place at Lord’s. Social media and youth focus: A local communications specialist warns short-form feeds are training children to expect instant rewards, linking the trend to weaker patience and less interest in longer activities like films and test cricket. Steelpan as a safe space: Panache Steel Orchestra highlights how the panyard keeps young people disciplined and on track, boosted by a gold-level sponsorship from the American University of Antigua. Cycling tragedy and justice: Cyclist Tahjé Browne is recovering after a hit-and-run; police have charged a driver at the airport and say the investigation continues. Panorama 2026 momentum: ABFC officially launches Panorama 2026 and presents $165,000 to the Pan Association after Pan in the City. Health and culture delays: Antigua and Barbuda’s Cancer Centre opening is pushed to September, while the nation’s air quality stays in the good range and a small craft advisory warns of hazardous seas. Regional spotlight: OECS leaders meet in Antigua as Antigua’s PM takes the chairmanship, with calls for stronger partnerships and practical regional delivery.

Regional Leadership: PM Dr. Godwin Friday hands the OECS Authority chairmanship baton to Antigua and Barbuda’s Gaston Browne at the 78th OECS meeting, with energy, air travel, disaster resilience, and stronger regional voice highlighted. Tech & Tourism: Long Bay Zen Resort’s US$200M vision is getting buzz—AI concierge, robotic services, smart systems, and an over-water chapel aimed at high-spending visitors. Culture & Music: ABFC launches Panorama 2026 after Pan in the City, presenting $165,000 to the Pan Association as steelpan season ramps up. Community & Inclusion: MP Chet Greene praises strong turnout at Liberta’s first town hall, with water shortages and road works top concerns; meanwhile, seven persons with disabilities secure jobs through the MSUT programme. Sports: West Indies begin a two-match WTC Test series vs Sri Lanka in Antigua after a full camp. Public Safety: Met Office reports air quality in the good range despite minimal Saharan dust, but issues a small craft advisory for hazardous seas. Tragedy: Police confirm 19-year-old Zowie Tomlinson’s death after a Devil’s Bridge incident; investigations continue.

Mental Health & Community Care: WISH is mourning the death of 19-year-old Zowie Tomlinson of Parham after her body was recovered from Devil’s Bridge, urging compassion online and calling for stronger youth mental health support. Health Infrastructure: Antigua and Barbuda’s Cancer Centre opening is pushed again to early fall/September, with delays blamed on structural repairs, unserviced equipment, and hiring specialist staff. Inclusion at Work: Seven persons with disabilities have secured jobs through the MSUT programme, a milestone credited to long-running ABAPD advocacy. Arts & Education: A culture official says some schools are blocking theatre arts students from completing CXC practicals, and wants a dedicated performing arts faculty. Sports Spotlight: West Indies begin a two-match Test series vs Sri Lanka in Antigua after an intensive camp, while Antigua and Barbuda’s Billy Jean King Cup team finishes eighth in Group III. Music & Culture: Week.day’s Aidonia hit “Like How Yuh Feel” tops regional charts and passes 1 million streams, and CTO’s Rum & Rhythm finale in New York spotlights Caribbean music, food and spirits. Tourism Buzz: Summer events are set to drive a tourism surge, and a Fort James Renaissance Park marina plan is moving toward a September start.

Tragedy at Devil’s Bridge: Police confirmed 19-year-old aspiring model Zowie Tomlinson of Parham died after jumping into the sea; her body was recovered early Sunday following an overnight Coast Guard and police search, and WISH is urging the public to avoid speculation and graphic sharing while prioritising youth mental health. Sports & community: Antigua and Barbuda finished eighth in the Billy Jean King Cup Americas Group III playoff for seventh place after a 2-0 loss to Panama, while cycling federation updates say national rider Tahjé Browne is recovering after tests cleared him of broken bones. Arts & education: A culture official says some schools block theatre arts students from completing CXC practical assessments, calling for dedicated performing arts faculty. Sailing spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis coach Nickahail Rogers and sailor Elijah Walters are in English Harbour, Antigua for the World Sailing Inclusive Development Programme clinic and regatta. Music buzz: Dancehall producer Week.day celebrates Aidonia’s “Like How Yuh Feel” crossing 1 million streams and topping charts across the region. Local development: PM Browne backs the Fort James Renaissance Park plan, with marina and tourism upgrades, and says construction is expected to begin by September.

Tragedy on Antigua’s streets: Police are investigating a fatal electric scooter crash on Antigua Street near Burke Street in Christchurch, where the rider died in hospital; officers are asking anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward. Devil’s Bridge death and youth mental health: WISH mourns the recovery of 19-year-old Zowie Tomlinson’s body from Devil’s Bridge after an overnight search, urging the public to avoid speculation and calling for stronger youth mental health support. Community and culture: Fort James Renaissance Park is set to break ground by September, with $5 million earmarked from the Sandals settlement for tourism and recreation upgrades. Sports spotlight: Courts Antigua kicked off West Indies vs Sri Lanka Test series excitement with a star-studded meet-and-greet, while local cycling fans rally behind Tahjé Browne after a training ride incident. Carnival music: Zamoni drops “What We Drinking?”—a new Antigua Carnival 2026 anthem featuring Papi’s horn sample. Youth entrepreneurship: ABYETS held a Barbuda retreat to prep young entrepreneurs ahead of its July 4 trade show. Arts & entertainment: Pan in the City returns Saturday with nine steel orchestras ahead of Panorama. Health call: The Red Cross issued an urgent appeal for O-positive blood donors for Deja Dyer.

Carnival Music Buzz: Zamoni drops Antigua Carnival 2026 anthem “What We Drinking?” with a horn sample from the late Papi, aiming to be a road-and-fete staple. Cricket Hype: Courts Antigua kicked off West Indies vs Sri Lanka Test series excitement with a star meet-and-greet, as the 1st Test runs June 25–29 and the 2nd July 3–7 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Local Sports Spotlight: West Indies Select XI’s batting collapse leaves Sri Lanka on the brink of victory in a warm-up match at Coolidge. Youth & Business: ABYETS readies young entrepreneurs for its July 4 Barbuda trade show after a “Restore, Connect, Empower” retreat with pitch practice and vision boards. Community Health Call: Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross issues an urgent appeal for O-positive blood donors for Deja Dyer at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (9 a.m.–6 p.m.). Pan in the City: Pre-Panorama showcase returns Saturday with nine steel orchestras performing downtown St. John’s. Tourism Readiness: ABHTA urges accommodation providers to register as CHOGM 2026 bookings intensify. Regional Policy: OECS Authority meeting in Antigua (June 21–22) includes a chairmanship handover from St. Vincent’s PM Friday to Antigua’s PM Gaston Browne.