(Sweet Talk, Bitter Truth:
Local and Regional Partners Rally to Protect the Nation’s Health)
Nearly 59% of Antiguan and Barbudan children consume at least one sugary drink daily, a habit linked to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and shortened lives. This troubling reality has prompted civil society and government partners to launch Sweet Talk on October 6th 2025, a national social media campaign designed to raise awareness of the dangers of sugary drink consumption and build public support for the proposed Sugar-Sweetened Beverage (SSB) Levy.
The initiative brings together the Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA), the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Antigua and Barbuda (HSFAB), the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC), and the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment & Civil Service Affairs. Each partner brings a unique perspective and a shared commitment to protecting the nation’s health.
Regional leaders have emphasized the importance of bold policies. Dr. Kenneth Connell, President of the HCC, explained, “The HCC congratulates the Government of Antigua and Barbuda for its commitment to implementing the health levy and strongly endorses the Sweet Talk campaign. The tax is a proven cost-effective strategy; a key measure of the broader healthy food policy package, which increases water intake while creating healthier food environments.”
The campaign resonates deeply with the Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA). Ms. Charity Dublin, ABDA President, shared, “Every week, I meet families grappling with the devastating effects of diabetes: amputations, dialysis, and lives cut short. We cannot stand by while preventable illnesses continue to rob our people of their health. An SSB levy is a bold, proven step to reduce consumption and support healthier choices.”
Government leadership has also voiced strong support. Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, stated, “By introducing a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, we are taking a crucial step toward reducing obesity and promoting healthier lifestyles. Revenue will directly benefit schools, families, and communities — making the healthy choice the easy choice.”
The Heart & Stroke Foundation has underscored the urgency of acting now. Ms. Sumita Balooja, HSFAB Vice President, noted, “Too often, the victims are far too young. Sugary drink consumption fuels silent killers. Through Sweet Talk, we want to inspire Antiguans and Barbudans to make healthier choices and support a policy that puts lives first.”
Grassroots initiatives, including the Foundation’s school mascot Arter, continue to promote healthier habits among children, and the campaign will now carry that message nationwide.
Cabinet approved the SSB policy in 2023, and work is underway with the Ministry of Legal Affairs to finalize the legislation. Advocates insist that raising awareness and securing public support are essential to ensure swift implementation.
As Dublin reminds us: “This is about protecting our nation’s future. And that future cannot wait.”
About the Sweet Talks Campaign
The Sweet Talks Campaign is a national health initiative led by the Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA), the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Antigua and Barbuda (HSFAB), the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC), and the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment & Civil Service Affairs. Together, these partners are working to raise awareness of health risks linked to sugary drink consumption and to build public support for the implementation of the Sugar-Sweetened Beverage (SSB) Levy in Antigua and Barbuda.
The campaign is part of a wider regional movement to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs), empower healthier lifestyles, and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.
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