Government says it has approved recommendations paving the way for the establishment and launch of the Barbuda Land Registry, marking a major step in the modernization of land administration and property management systems within the twin-island nation.
The decision follows ongoing efforts by the Government to complete the land adjudication process in Barbuda, which Cabinet was informed at its meeting yesterday, is now nearing completion. Preparations are currently underway for the official launch of the Barbuda Land Registry on or about August 31, 2026.
According to Cabinet discussions, the new registry will initially operate under the centralized management structure of the existing Land Registry in Antigua. The arrangement will allow Barbuda land records to be created, maintained and serviced through the current operational systems and expertise already in place, ensuring administrative continuity and efficiency during the early stages of implementation.
Cabinet agreed that utilizing the established Antigua-based framework would reduce immediate operational risks associated with opening a fully independent office in Barbuda within a limited timeframe. Concerns surrounding staffing, infrastructure, procurement and specialized training were among the factors considered during deliberations.
At the same time, Cabinet emphasized the importance of maintaining accessibility for Barbudans and approved continued assessments into the future establishment of a satellite Land Registry office on the sister island as operational needs evolve.
The Government also approved the commencement of staffing, recruitment and training preparations necessary to support the functioning of the Barbuda Land Registry. Interim arrangements, including the use of temporary facilities and remote learning platforms for onboarding and training exercises, are also expected to form part of the transition process.
Cabinet stated that the establishment of the registry represents a significant advancement in strengthening land governance, transparency and legal certainty in Barbuda. Officials noted that the system is expected to improve the management of land records, streamline access to registry services and increase confidence in land ownership and transactions.
The development comes as the Government continues preparations for its programme to make land available to Barbudans for one dollar. Cabinet was informed that work is currently progressing toward the clearing of approximately 216 acres of land at Louis Hill earmarked for sale under the initiative.
The establishment of the Barbuda Land Registry is regarded as a key institutional component supporting the broader land distribution and development agenda in Barbuda.
