Cabinet Commits to Advancing the Transformation and Strategic Agenda of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force
CABINET NOTES- The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, led by Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne, visited the Headquarters of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) to receive a comprehensive briefing on the Transformation and Strategic Agenda of the Force. The presentation was delivered by Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, who outlined a multi-year programme of modernization, resilience-building, and expanded national service.
The Prime Minister and Members of Cabinet commended the Defence Force for its forward-looking vision to strengthen security operations, improve disaster response, and support national development.
Key Approvals
Following the briefing, Cabinet approved a series of major investments to accelerate the ABDF’s transformation:
- Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Services — Formalization and budgeting of dedicated services, valued at approximately US$100,000 annually.
- Communications and Radar Systems — US$1 million approved to advance Phases 2 and 3, strengthening maritime surveillance and national security.
- Food Security Projects — Allocation of US$360,000 for livestock and fisheries initiatives aimed at enhancing national resilience.
- Interim Patrol Vessel — Approval of a US$1.2 million lease for a vessel to bolster maritime operations until a permanent asset is secured.
- Coast Guard Headquarters — Confirmation of Camp Blizzard as the designated headquarters site for the Coast Guard.
- Human Capital Development — Continued investment in scholarships and training programmes for ABDF personnel to strengthen leadership, technical skills, and professional capacity.
These measures reflect Cabinet’s recognition of the ABDF as a critical institution for national defence, disaster preparedness, and socio-economic development. The Defence Force plays a central role in safeguarding maritime borders, supporting regional security initiatives, and contributing to national resilience through programmes in agriculture, fisheries, and youth empowerment.
Prime Minister Browne emphasized that these investments represent a strategic commitment to equipping the ABDF with the tools, training, and infrastructure required to meet evolving national and regional challenges.
Quotation from the Prime Minister: Our Defence Force is not only a shield for our sovereignty, but also a partner in building resilience, advancing food security, and preparing our young people for leadership. These investments will ensure that the ABDF continues to serve our nation with strength and excellence. The ABDF is now an avenue for our young people to develop a career and advance themselves educationally and also contribute significantly to our employment rate.
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So wa happen to the Police Force Its about time we modernize the f*****g organization. And stop mek dem use live rounds unnecessarily. Why dem nah use tazers and wear body cameras etc. No offence to the soldiers but what are they doing thats so important compared to the Police? Aren’t the Police first preference since they deal with us civilians everyday. What happen Jeffers cant get it done???