Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Sir Molwyn Joseph received Mr. Peter Holland, Chief Executive Officer of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), and Mr. Simon Darvill, Director of Communications, Campaigns and Events at IAPB, during a courtesy call at the Ministry’s Headquarters earlier today.
The meeting formed a key component of the delegation’s official visit to Antigua and Barbuda ahead of the national preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2026 (CHOGM 2026) and the associated Global Summit for Eye Health. The Summit will be globally launched on 4th March 2026, with Antigua and Barbuda playing a prominently featured role.
Minister Joseph reaffirmed his Government’s strong commitment to advancing eye health as a national and regional priority. He emphasized the importance of prevention, early intervention, and the integration of eye health services within the broader primary health care framework. The Minister further noted that Antigua and Barbuda’s engagement in the Global Summit for Eye Health reflects the country’s proactive approach to addressing avoidable blindness and visual impairment.
Mr. Holland commended Minister Joseph for his leadership and vision in positioning Antigua and Barbuda as an advocate for eye health within the Commonwealth and beyond. Mr. Darvill highlighted the significance of strategic collaboration and high-level political engagement in ensuring the success of the Summit and related initiatives.
Also present at the meeting were Senator Michael Joseph, Minister of State within the Ministry; Mrs. Stacey Gregg-Paige, Permanent Secretary; and Dr. Kamaria DeCastro, Chief Medical Officer, who contributed to discussions on policy alignment and implementation priorities.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs looks forward to continued partnership with IAPB as preparations intensify for CHOGM 2026 and the Global Summit for Eye Health.
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