*2025 is a Year of Visionary Development and Empowerment for Antigua and Barbuda – Winston Williams Jr.
As Antigua and Barbuda strides confidently into 2025, the nation stands at the culmination of remarkable economic achievements and the dawn of even greater possibilities. The twin-island state’s trajectory, marked by strategic development and inclusive growth, serves as a compelling blueprint for small island nations worldwide.
The numbers tell an impressive story: a robust 6% GDP growth pushing the national economy to $6.0 billion, coupled with record-breaking tourism figures of 1.1 million visitors. Yet, these statistics only scratch the surface of a deeper transformation taking place across our twin islands. The real story lies in how this prosperity is being channeled into empowering local citizens and building sustainable infrastructure for the future.
Tourism, long the backbone of the economy, has evolved beyond traditional models. With 85% of Airbnb properties now locally owned and over 450 tourism-related enterprises in the hands of Antiguans and Barbudans, the industry has become a vehicle for local entrepreneurship and wealth creation. The government’s initiative to provide additional plots for Airbnb development at Pensioners, Morris Bay, and Shell Beach further demonstrates a commitment to democratizing economic opportunities.
Education stands as a cornerstone of this transformative vision. The Harrison Centre, with its 800-strong student body, is addressing critical skills gaps in construction and technical fields. This push is made all the more critical by our construction sector’s record growth, contributing nearly $1 billion in economic value during the previous fiscal year. Meanwhile, the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, poised for a $200 million expansion, is nurturing the intellectual capital that will drive our innovation and competitiveness in the global knowledge economy.
Today, infrastructure development is being approached with unprecedented ambition. The $165 million upgrade of V.C. Bird International Airport, combined with Barbuda’s new international airport, positions the nation for increased global connectivity. The government’s further $110 million investment in water infrastructure demonstrates a serious commitment to addressing fundamental quality-of-life issues, targeting a daily water production capacity of 13 million gallons by the end of 2025. The development and maintenance of our road infrastructure has also received a boost, with $21 million invested to acquire new equipment.
Environmental stewardship and climate leadership have also become defining features of Antigua and Barbuda’s international presence. Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s advocacy for climate justice and sustainable development has elevated the nation’s global standing while attracting environmentally conscious investors and tourists. Further, our nation’s emergence as a regional diplomatic center, exemplified by hosting the UN Small Island Developing States conference, speaks to a broader vision of self-determination and international influence. This strong global positioning will ensure that our stellar tourism marketing, new investment projects and aggressive development of critical infrastructure results in our nation hitting the coveted target of 1.5 million visitors in the coming years.
National Housing’s remarkable milestone of 1,100 affordable homes speaks to the government’s continued commitment to the empowerment of all citizens and residents. In all areas, from home ownership to constantly expanding entrepreneurial support, the Gaston Browne Administration has demonstrated empowerment leadership with consistency and determination.
As we look ahead, 2025 represents more than just another year of growth; it embodies the culmination of visionary leadership and collective ambition. The blueprint for success lies in the continued balance of tourism excellence, educational advancement, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to local empowerment.
For Antigua and Barbuda, the future is not merely about economic metrics but about creating a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous society that benefits all its citizens. The nation’s journey serves as a testament to what can be achieved when visionary leadership meets strategic execution, setting a powerful example for other small island nations aspiring to punch above their weight in the global arena.
The success of this vision relies not just on government initiatives but on the active participation of every citizen and resident in building a more prosperous and equitable future for all. The road ahead will require continued vigilance, innovation, and adaptation. Yet, with our strong foundation of economic growth, commitment to education, and focus on sustainable development, Antigua and Barbuda is well-positioned to make 2025 a landmark year in its rapid progress.
Regards
Winston Vincent D. Williams Jr. DIP. MSc.
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I wonder how he feels when he looks at the houses on the incline and doesn’t have access to any.? Could that be the reason he flipped? Thou shall not steal for is a thief steals stolen property from you, you cannot go to lawful legal authority and complain!!!!!!!
Only the blind delusional blue coolaid drinkers fail to see the progress in Wadadli.
Where challenges exist, major investments and adjustments have been made to resolve them step by step.
More water in the south from January 31 via the new plant installed at Ffryes is one such example.
In the modern age, the UPP political approach is a failed venture. There is simply no way to fool enough people to get a puppet and a crew of motley fools into government.
With every step forward and every issue taken off the table the archaic UPP fades further into the rearview mirror.
Dear Mr. Winston Williams,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to seek some clarification regarding your current political alignment and representation. Your use of blue in campaign materials has caused some confusion, as blue is traditionally associated with the UPP, while the ABLP colors are red and black. This inconsistency has led to questions about your political identity and intentions.
Additionally, I noticed the use of the slogan “HOPE,” which is commonly associated with the UPP. Could you please address whether this overlap is intentional or coincidental? Clear communication about your political stance is vital for maintaining trust with the public.
It is important for all candidates to focus on integrity and unity within their communities. As a public figure, your actions and affiliations are subject to scrutiny, and transparency will help strengthen your connection with voters.
Your sexual preferences have also been of concern, especially after it was alleged that you attended a gay queen show as a distinguished guest. Please clarify. Inquiring minds wants to know the truth. Antigua is small.
Some of these comments are extremely ignorant and not befitting of this moment we find ourselves in. Yes Mr. WIlliams was the youngest UPP parliamentarian at one point in his life. That did not stop him from making a contribution and upgrading his skills and expertise. Apparently the colour blue is exclusive to the United Progressive Party so it cannot be used in any other context. Such ignorance is unfathomable.
@Antigua is Home!
I love it. Your comment is the perfect representation of UPP’s current state of delusion and perhaps total madness at this point.
UPP is so pathetic they can’t even do propaganda properly now? SMH
Winston Williams, the Pointe FM GM and morning show host, has an unknown affiliation?
Winston Williams who tours St. Mary’s North with a substantial team in red “Better Together” shirts has “blue materials” and a UPP “HOPE(less)” slogan?
SMH! Please tell us this is some kind of satire. Please!
UPP is washed up to be sure but please keep up some kind of 10% standard in the quality of the propaganda man!
And while you’re at it, why not tell us about Johnathan’s sexual orientation and the SDA church’s concerns from way back when. Tell us also about the child beating incident. The reason for dismissal from UHSA. Etc etc.
You best not write checks you can’t cash. The next general elections will be VERY entertaining.