Labour Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin has issued a call for greater investment in the development of Antiguans and Barbudans to ensure they take up leadership roles in the country’s key industries.

Speaking during a Labour Day interview on ABS, Sir Steadroy stressed that while locals have long formed the backbone of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, too few have risen to senior management positions in sectors such as tourism, banking, and construction.

“I am longing for the day when Antiguans and Barbudans will enjoy the benefits of management positions in these institutions,” he said. “We must qualify our people to run this country and enjoy the fruits of what we fought so long and hard for.”

The minister linked his appeal to the legacy of labour pioneers like Sir Vere Cornwall Bird and George Walter, asserting that the struggles of earlier generations must translate into economic opportunity and leadership for the nation’s citizens today.

He emphasised the need for focused education and training programmes to prepare locals for roles such as managers, assistant managers, and accountants. “Antigua is for Antiguans,” he said, reiterating that the country’s development efforts, including land acquisition and industry growth, must benefit its people.

Sir Steadroy’s comments come as part of a broader push by the government to update the Labour Code, review wage policies, and modernise labour laws to better reflect the country’s evolving economy and workforce.