By Robert Andre Emmanuel
Antigua and Barbuda officially welcomed the new year with a renewed focus on hope and gratitude to mark the start of 2025, as political leaders and citizens alike called for unity and collective effort towards national development.
“Through our collective efforts, we have been making significant progress,” Prime Minister Gaston Browne said during an interview with reporters on Tuesday.
He thanked Antiguans and Barbudans for their hard work that led to record tourism numbers in 2024, with even better results expected in 2025.
“Let us seek to further unite our country,” the Prime Minister urged, asking citizens to “put their shoulders to the wheel” to help advance the nation.
Observer media spoke to citizens and residents who shared personal stories of resilience and hope.
“You’re stronger than you think you may be,” said one individual, reflecting on the challenges of 2024. “Whatever trials may come forward, I’m not going to let it stress me out. I’m going to plant my feet.”
Another citizen spoke about the importance of unity: “Every time I walk down the road, I realize we just need to unite,” she said, sharing hopes of career growth in 2025.
In the agricultural sector, Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher expressed optimism despite a personally challenging year.
“I’m very hopeful for the agriculture sector and for our farming community,” he said, looking ahead to new developments in 2025.
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle also emphasized unity in his New Year’s message.
“Let us commit to fostering and promoting unity in the interests of the country we love and the people we have promised to serve,” he said.
Personal growth and determination also emerged as common themes among citizens.
“I want to be the best person that I can be,” shared one resident, adding, “New month, new me. New week, new me. New day, new me.”
“When I was experiencing those negative emotions, I never thought that I would make it to 2025,” one person revealed. “But 2024 was a year of lessons. No matter how bad you may think you’re going through something, you can keep moving forward.”
As the nation steps into 2025, the message is clear: through unity, determination and collective effort, citizens believe better days lie ahead.
Another resident remarked: “Anything is possible once you put your mind and your body to it.”
