Antigua and Barbuda is ramping up preparations to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) next year and has issued a fresh call for volunteers.
Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene made the appeal during a ceremony at the Copper and Lumber Store in Nelson’s Dockyard, where volunteers from the recent Organisation of American States (OAS) General Assembly were honoured.
Greene praised the efforts of those who supported the OAS event, saying their commitment exemplified the spirit of national service. “Volunteering is about more than compensation — it’s about pride, unity, and giving back,” he said.
He stressed that hosting CHOGM will require even greater volunteer support, noting the event’s expanded scale and global significance.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, described volunteers as “the backbone” of Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic engagements. “Your friendly faces and hard work ensured our success,” he said.
Certificates of Appreciation were presented to group leaders, while other volunteers will be recognised through the ministry. Prizes donated by local businesses added a celebratory touch to the evening.
