A delegation from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda undertook a series of high-level engagements in London from 8th-12th November. Organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda and the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office in the United Kingdom, the meetings aimed at strengthening security cooperation, enhancing protocol capacity, and advancing preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The delegation included Sherese George, Chief of Protocol; Superintendent Louisa Benjamin-Quashie of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda; Captain Trevor Pennyfeather of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force; and Gordin Hector-Murrell, Director of Cyber Security within the Ministry of Information, Broadcasting, Telecoms and Information Technology. The visit began with a virtual briefing from the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission, where the trip’s objectives and coordination for the scheduled engagements with UK partners were outlined. On 9th November, the delegation met senior officers of the Metropolitan Police’s Royalty and Specialist Protection (RaSP) and observed their operations during the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph. This provided an opportunity to witness first-hand how the UK manages security for major national ceremonies, including protective arrangements, escort movements, and controlled arrivals for dignitaries. A detailed debrief at RaSP Headquarters further deepened the delegation’s understanding of convoy operations and VIP protection strategies relevant to CHOGM planning. On 10th November, the delegation undertook a comprehensive series of briefings at RaSP Headquarters, where they engaged with experts in VIP close protection, cyber and protective security, explosive ordnance disposal, counterterrorism coordination, intelligence assessment, and threat management. These sessions provided valuable operational frameworks that will assist Antigua and Barbuda in enhancing its security capabilities for large-scale events. Later that day, the delegation met with officials from the UK Ministry of Defence at their Whitehall headquarters to discuss defence diplomacy and strategic threat planning. These sessions provided valuable operational frameworks that will assist Antigua and Barbuda in enhancing its security posture for large-scale events. Later that day, the delegation met with officials from the UK Ministry of Defence at their headquarters to discuss defence diplomacy and strategic threat planning. The meeting strengthened bilateral security relations and offered further insight into best practices for major event preparedness. The evening concluded with an informal dinner hosted by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, which served to reinforce diplomatic ties and strengthen working relationships with UK counterparts. Engagements continued on 11th November with a meeting at the Commonwealth Secretariat at Marlborough House, where discussions focused on CHOGM operational readiness, ceremonial standards, and coordination expectations. The secretariat reaffirmed its support for Antigua and Barbuda as preparations advance. The delegation then joined staff members of the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission and the High Commissioner, her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, for an informal lunch. This engagement provided an opportunity to reflect on the insights gained thus far. On 12th November, the delegation participated in extensive sessions at Lancaster House with the FCDO Protocol Directorate. These engagements covered major-event planning structures, arrivals and departures, accreditation processes, access-control systems, media managements, transport coordination, and rehearsal requirements. The Directorate shared insights and best practices that will assist Antigua and Barbuda in refining its protocol and operational systems for CHOGM. The official visit concluded on 12 November following the completion of the scheduled engagements and a review of the outcomes that will guide the next phase of the CHOGM preparation. The mission strengthened partnerships with key UK institutions, provided valuable insights into large-scale event security and protocol managements, and positioned Antigua and Barbuda to deliver a well-coordinated and secure CHOGM.

During her brief but impactful visit to Antigua and Barbuda last week, Commonwealth Secretary General, Shirley Botchwey, had an opportunity to observe up close Antigua and Barbuda cultural traditions and some aspects of its history.

From the drumming and dancing of the Antigua Dance Academy which performed at the Official Launch Ceremony on Tuesday at Sandals Hotel, where the Secretary General said was reminded of being home in Ghana indicating that she was quite impressed with the drumming, to a tour of the Nelson’s Dockyard and surroundings, the Secretary General was able to enjoy much of what the country has to offer.

The National Parks Authority reported that it was honoured to host the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Botchwey, during her official visit to Antigua and Barbuda.

The Secretary-General explored the timeless beauty of our UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting Clarence House, Shirley Heights Lookout, and the Dockyard Museum, before enjoying lunch at the Copper & Lumber Store Hotel in the heart of Nelson’s Dockyard.

Her visit marks the beginning of Antigua and Barbuda’s journey to CHOGM 2026, celebrating the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”

Antiguan creative and communications specialist Chaneil Imhoff has been announced as the designer for the official logo for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) Antigua and Barbuda 2026, that was unveiled on Tuesday.

The logo was unveiled during the Official Launch of the activities leading to Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of CHOGM next year November 1- 4. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and CHOGM Task Force Chair Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, all participated in the unveiling exercise.

In brief remarks at the launch, Imhoff described the selection of her design as “an honor, pleasure, and privilege”, reflecting on what the opportunity represents for local creators and the wider Orange Economy.

“This logo tells our story,” Imhoff said. “The frigate bird in motion symbolizes our freedom and resilience, while the colors drawn from the national flag and the Commonwealth palette reflect both our pride and our connection to the global family. To have this design chosen to represent Antigua and Barbuda on such a stage is one of the greatest honours of my creative journey.”

Imhoff also issued a call to action for greater investment in the Orange Economy — the creative industries that fuel innovation, identity, and cultural expression.

“Our creativity is nation-building,” she added. “Design, music, film, fashion — these aren’t just artistic pursuits; they are economic drivers and pillars of our national identity. Let’s keep supporting and funding the sector so more Antiguans and Barbudans can see their work represented globally.”

A multidisciplinary creative with over a decade of experience, Chaneil Imhoff is known for her work in branding, digital media, and public communication, as well as her leadership in mental health advocacy through her organization WISH – the Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing.

Chaneil is also the host of Government in Motion on State Media, ABS Television.

As Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host CHOGM 2026, Imhoff’s design stands as a symbol of the country’s creativity, resilience, and readiness to engage the world.