Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon. Shirley Botchwey is scheduled to arrive in Antigua and Barbuda on Monday, November 3, for a two-day visit to mark the official launch of the country’s hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Botchwey will arrive at V.C. Bird International Airport aboard a British Airways flight from London, where she will receive an official welcome in the VIP Lounge. Her visit underscores the Commonwealth’s partnership with Antigua and Barbuda as the twin-island nation prepares to welcome leaders from across its 56-member family of nations next year.
On the evening of her arrival, the Secretary-General is expected to attend the Independence Ceremonial Parade at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, joining dignitaries and government officials in celebrating the nation’s 44th anniversary of Independence.
The highlight of her visit will be the official launch of Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of CHOGM 2026, set for Tuesday, November 4, at Sandals Antigua Grand Resort and Spa. The ceremony will unveil the official dates, logo, and theme for the upcoming summit, marking the start of an intensive year of preparation.
Later that afternoon, Botchwey is expected to meet with the government’s CHOGM Task Force at the American University of Antigua (AUA) to review logistical and operational plans for the event.