ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Prime Minister Gaston Browne delivered a pointed message to Antiguans this week, challenging members of the black community to move beyond passive banking and actively invest in the nation’s economic development.
At a recent Chamber of Commerce roundtable, Browne criticized a “knee-jerk reaction” among some black Antiguans who prefer keeping money in bank accounts rather than pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities. He emphasized that when other ethnic groups capitalize on investments, some individuals complain about perceived favoritism.
“I’m embracing of all, irrespective of color, creed, or class, but there is this knee-jerk reaction in which there are some of my ethnicity who will do nothing. They sit on their money, and then when others of other ethnicities seize opportunities, they cry foul and say that we gave them priority. I want to reassure you that is not the case.”
The Prime Minister highlighted a significant government-backed investment opportunity – a new Airbnb development spanning over 40 acres at Shell Beach. This project aims to empower locals to participate in the lucrative hospitality sector, providing a direct pathway for economic engagement.
“Shell Beach, we should start to clear the land within a matter of days, and I believe we have over 40 acres that we make available to Antiguans and Barbudans to invest in Airbnb properties.
“Airbnb properties are very popular globally, and it’s a great opportunity to empower the locals so they too can participate in the lucrative hospitality sector,” Prime Minister Browne said.
Browne’s comments come against a backdrop of positive economic indicators, with the country’s GDP recently validated at 62% by the International Monetary Fund. Despite ongoing challenges in infrastructure like water and road systems, the government remains committed to creating investment opportunities.
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