Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the government will add an additional 3 million gallons of water per day to the national supply in 2026, as part of an aggressive plan to stabilize water access across Antigua and Barbuda and reduce reliance on rationing.
Browne made the announcement during Thursday’s presentation of the 2026 national budget, saying the country’s water production capacity has already expanded from 3 million gallons daily in 2014 to 11 million gallons today — an increase driven largely by investment in reverse osmosis plants and upgrades to the water distribution network.
“With the additional three million gallons we plan to add next year, Antigua and Barbuda will be better positioned than ever to ensure consistent, reliable access to water for households and businesses,” Browne said. He called the investment essential for national development, given the country’s vulnerability to drought and climate change.
The Prime Minister said the government’s long-term objective is to build a fully drought-resilient water system powered by multiple desalination plants, improved storage tanks, and rehabilitated pipelines that reduce leakage and water loss. He added that the increased capacity will support agriculture, construction, tourism and residential communities — all sectors that have faced supply challenges during dry periods.
According to Browne, water infrastructure remains one of the government’s top spending priorities, alongside housing, energy, education and climate-resilient public works. He said the country’s stronger fiscal position — including a $254.9 million primary surplus — is allowing the state to accelerate large-scale utility upgrades.
The Prime Minister also told Parliament that the government will continue modernizing the Antigua Public Utilities Authority, supporting private-sector partnerships, and investing in renewable energy to complement the water network.
The budget debate continues next week, when ministers will break down sector-specific plans for 2026.
