15/06/2026
Office of the Governor General
Government House
Antigua and Barbuda
The Government's vision of establishing Spanish as the second official language of Antigua and Barbuda featured prominently during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed Ambassadors-at-Large, Ms. Samantha Nicole Marshall and Ms. Joanne Maureen Massiah, held today at Government House.
The ceremony was officiated by Sir Clare K. Roberts, KCN, KC, Governor General's Deputy, acting in the absence of His Excellency The Right Honourable Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda.
In his remarks, Sir Clare highlighted the strategic importance of Antigua and Barbuda strengthening its engagement with Latin America and the wider Spanish-speaking world, describing the Government's language policy as both an economic and diplomatic imperative.
"The Government has articulated a clear vision of making Spanish our second official language. This is not simply a cultural objective; it is an economic and strategic imperative," Sir Clare stated.
He noted that Antigua and Barbuda is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of the Caribbean and the Americas and must take full advantage of emerging opportunities in trade, investment, tourism, education, healthcare, and cultural exchange with Spanish-speaking nations.
Pointing to the growing importance of Latin American centres such as Panama City and Cali, Colombia, Sir Clare observed that regional patterns of commerce, travel, and healthcare are changing rapidly. As a result, Antigua and Barbuda must be proactive in developing stronger relationships with countries throughout Central and South America.
"Our future prosperity will increasingly depend on our ability to engage effectively with our neighbours to the south. The Spanish-speaking world represents a vast market, a source of investment, innovation, and partnership, and Antigua and Barbuda must position itself to benefit from these opportunities," he said.
Sir Clare further emphasized that the appointments of Ms. Marshall and Ms. Massiah come at an important moment in the nation's development and foreign policy evolution.
"As Ambassadors-at-Large, they have an important role to play in fostering new relationships, opening doors for trade and investment, promoting Antigua and Barbuda abroad, and helping to build bridges with governments, businesses, institutions, and communities throughout the Spanish-speaking world."
The Governor General's Deputy noted that both women bring extensive experience in public service, law, governance, and national development, and are well equipped to support Antigua and Barbuda's expanding international engagement.
The appointments reflect the Government's commitment to strengthening diplomatic outreach, advancing South-South cooperation, and ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda remains responsive to the changing economic and geopolitical realities of the region.
Following the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office, and Oath of Secrecy, Ms. Marshall and Ms. Massiah formally assumed their responsibilities as Ambassadors-at-Large for Antigua and Barbuda.
The Office of the Governor General extends congratulations to both appointees and wishes them every success as they undertake this important national service.
