Antigua and Barbuda, Commonwealth Secretariat Announce 2026 CHOGM Theme

The Commonwealth Secretariat and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda have announced the official theme for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM): “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”

The announcement was made at Sandals Grande Antigua by the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon. Gaston Browne, and the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Botchwey, during the Secretary-General’s first official visit to the country.

The new theme sets the vision and ambition for CHOGM 2026, which will bring together leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations to strengthen collaboration, drive sustainable investment, and promote shared prosperity across the Commonwealth.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said the theme embodies Antigua and Barbuda’s enduring belief in unity, progress, and equality among nations.

“The theme speaks to a truth we live by in Antigua and Barbuda: when each of us plays our part — in our homes, our communities, and our nations we all move forward,” he said. “It echoes our national motto, ‘Each Endeavouring, All Achieving’, reminding us that real progress happens when we work together to build a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. Antigua and Barbuda is proud to open our doors to the Commonwealth in 2026 to host, to listen, and to lead with purpose.”

Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said the theme captures the Commonwealth’s modern mission to turn ambition into action.

“This theme captures the spirit of partnership and enterprise that defines the modern Commonwealth. Together, we are building bridges of opportunity between governments and business, between people and ideas, to deliver tangible results for our citizens,” she said. “As we look to CHOGM 2026, hosted with warmth and pride by Antigua and Barbuda, our focus is clear: to accelerate progress and prosperity through shared investment, innovation, and inclusion.”

The launch ceremony also featured the unveiling of the official CHOGM 2026 logo, designed by Ms. Chaneil C. Imhoff, winner of the national logo competition.

The design incorporates an abstract frigate bird, symbolizing freedom, strength, and forward movement, a reflection of Antigua and Barbuda’s role as a connector and host for meaningful global dialogue. The logo’s vibrant colours, drawn from the national flag and the Commonwealth palette, represent unity, renewal, and collaboration.

Underscoring the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusivity, the launch event brought together a diverse cross-section of Antiguan and Barbudan society, including representatives from the Rastafarian community, CARICOM Youth Ambassadors, secondary school students, non-governmental organisations, and the private sector.

The celebration featured performances by the Hellsgate Steel Orchestra, the Antigua Dance Academy, and the UWI Five Islands Campus Singers, along with a short film titled “From Apia, Samoa to St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.”

During the ceremony, the Government announced the appointment of Sir Vivian Richards, Antigua and Barbuda’s cricket legend and national hero, as CHOGM 2026 Envoy.

Reflecting on his appointment, Sir Vivian expressed pride and optimism:

“To have the entire Commonwealth family gather here in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026 will make it more than a meeting. It will be a statement and a moment of immense pride for the hospitable people of our small islands,” he said. “We look forward to showcasing that the same spirit which drove us to success on the cricket pitch still runs strong in our people, our culture, and the future we want to collectively build with 56 Commonwealth countries. We are ready to welcome the Commonwealth and its leaders — with passion and purpose.”

The Secretary-General’s visit from 3–5 November 2025 marks the start of the Commonwealth’s public engagement journey toward CHOGM 2026. Her programme included meetings with national leaders, a site visit with the CHOGM 2026 Task Force, and participation in Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence Anniversary Parade.

Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, said the launch underscores the strong partnership between the Government and the Commonwealth Secretariat.

“Today’s launch represents the culmination of extensive collaboration between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth Secretariat. We are proud to take this step forward and reaffirm our commitment to the principles and values that bind our Commonwealth family together,” he said.

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 will be held from 1–4 November 2026 in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. The summit will bring together Heads of Government, Ministers, and representatives from business, civil society, and youth organisations.

Discussions will focus on shared priorities including climate resilience, trade, innovation, equality, and sustainable development, uniting nations under the spirit of partnership and prosperity.