Old Pipes are being replaced/photo by Sadique Armstrong

The Chinese government will provide Antigua and Barbuda with additional pipes later this year to support the country’s ongoing water re-piping programme, Prime Minister Gaston Browne said.

Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne said the government is working to accelerate the replacement of aging pipelines across the country as it seeks to improve water distribution and reduce persistent supply disruptions.

“We have thousands of miles of pipes to change. It’s going to take some time. But at least we’re making steady progress,” Browne said.

The prime minister said the administration has secured grant assistance from China to help advance the infrastructure upgrade.

“We also have a grant programme with the Chinese in which they will be providing us some pipes later in the year,” Browne said.

Browne said the government intends to speed up the replacement programme, which he linked to discussions held during an official visit to China in 2023.

The government has repeatedly cited aging underground infrastructure, leaks and drought conditions as major factors affecting the country’s water supply system.

Officials have said significant portions of the pipeline network are outdated and require extensive replacement to improve efficiency and reduce water losses across the island.