Governor-General Praises APUA Water Expansion Amid Ongoing Infrastructure Challenges

Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams praised the expansion of Antigua and Barbuda’s potable water production during Tuesday’s Throne Speech while acknowledging that ageing infrastructure continues to create major delivery challenges in several communities.

Speaking at the ceremonial opening of Parliament, Sir Rodney said the government has significantly increased the Antigua Public Utilities Authority’s water production capacity since 2014 through the addition of reverse osmosis plants.

“My Government has increased the APUA supply of potable water from 3.5 million gallons daily, in 2014 when it first assumed office; to 11 million gallons daily, with the addition of four more reverse osmosis plants,” the Governor-General said.

The Throne Speech also announced that the government aims to increase production to 14 million gallons daily before the end of 2026.

“Before the end of this calendar year, my Government will be providing 14 million gallons of potable water daily,” Sir Rodney said.

The Governor-General described the provision of potable water as one of the most difficult responsibilities facing small island developing states, particularly amid drought conditions, climate change and growing national demand.

“One of the most daunting tasks faced by the Government of any small island developing-State is the provision of potable water for its inhabitants,” he said.

The speech praised Public Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas for overseeing the government’s water expansion programme and managing increasing demands from residents, tourism businesses, schools, hospitals and farmers.

Despite improvements in production, the government acknowledged continuing problems with water delivery caused by ageing underground pipelines across St. John’s and several villages.

“While the level of production of potable water has been satisfactory, the delivery of that water has proven problematic in several communities,” Sir Rodney said.

According to the speech, many ageing pipes easily leak or burst when water pressure increases and must be replaced beneath roads and streets, often resulting in disruptions for motorists and residents.

“Residents and motorists who need potable water delivered to their homes and businesses decry the dusty or muddy, uneven or potholed street surfaces that result, when new pipes are being buried,” the Governor-General said.

Sir Rodney appealed for public patience as the infrastructure work continues.

“Every farmer knows, if you wish to plant crops, you must first plow the earth. My Government can only seek your patience while the Minister and his experts do their job,” he said.

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