Prime Minister Gaston Browne is urging Antiguans and Barbudans living overseas to consider returning home, arguing that economic growth and changing global conditions now present an opportunity to retain and reclaim national talent.
Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM on Saturday, Browne said recent international policy shifts and uncertainty should be seen not only as challenges, but as a moment for Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen itself through what he described as a “brain gain.”
He was referencing an article written by Premier of Nevis Hon. Mark Brantley.
“There’s an opportunity now for more of our talent to remain at home, and even for some who are abroad to come back home to build our country,” Browne said, describing the moment as one that could help accelerate national development.
He said Antigua and Barbuda is in a far stronger position than in previous decades, with improved economic performance, expanded educational opportunities and a broader range of services now available locally.
“In the past, our people had practically no avenue other than to travel to the United Kingdom, the United States or Canada to get a university education,” Browne said. “Today, you can get a university education right here in Antigua.”
The prime minister also pointed to advances in healthcare, noting that procedures which once required overseas travel are now being performed locally. “There are many medical procedures that we are now doing here that people don’t have to travel abroad for anymore,” he said.
Browne said global changes in commerce and technology have also reduced the need for physical migration, citing the growth of e-commerce and remote transactions. He said Antiguans and Barbudans no longer need to leave the country to access goods, services or economic opportunity in the way they once did.
He urged citizens to recognise the quality of life available at home, highlighting the country’s natural environment and improving living standards. “On the basis that you have a few dollars here, you can enjoy a standard of living that is second to none,” Browne said.
The prime minister said encouraging skilled nationals to stay or return is essential to sustaining growth and preventing the loss of human capital needed for continued development.
“In every disappointment there is a blessing,” Browne said. “I just hope we see this as an opportunity to make our country stronger, more united, and to accelerate growth and development.”
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What say you, as the newly appointed Diaspora Minister for the ABLP Dr. Dave Ray?
I’m surprised that the Prime Minister is sort of stepping on your newly polished toes in regards to encouraging the Antiguan Diaspora to return home.
Or has Gaston Browne simply acquired a “third” Ministerial position after his Finance and Leadership jobs?
DAVE WHEY YOU DEYA? 🤣🤣🤣
Dat GASSY DREAD weed got U acting like you’re on fentanyl. Pull your sagging pants up Bwoi. Your polka dots pink boxers are showing on Tic Tok with your fake locs.
We love your Halloween costume though.
Is Dr. Hairdresser Ray the fashionista sista your wardrobe consultant?
Please lay off the blunt laced with fentanyl. It’s worst than weed soaked in embalming fluid, PCP.
The day that data is readily available which allows me to make a judgement on what’s really happening in the country, and not what political parties says.
The day I seldom encounter rude and obnoxious government officials and employees.
The day when I don’t need to see a Parliamentary Minister or his or her assistant to obtain government services
The day I can get bank services without standing in line or waiting for almost an hour to speak to a bank officer.
The day I can get fresh fruits and vegetables as well as to grow some for some myself.
The day I don’t feel like a second class citizen in my land of birth because I have dark skin.
The day when as a locally born, I’m not are placed at a disadvantage to non-African people from abroad.
I’ll be among the Returning Antiguans and Barbudans.
If not I’ll continue to enjoy touring Napa and camping under the redwood trees.
Natty Dread · Gassy Dread. Never Bow. Flames in Soul. Jah Guide him now. Truth and Love be him guide. Its time to look at home
We should have been encouraging Antiguans and Barbudans to return home long ago and give them the same opportunities and favourable circumstances that we so often give to foreigners. Many Antiguans and Barbudans would love to come home permanently and contribute to our country but they are not prepared to give underhand and clandestine gifts in order to get accepted and started.