New Citizen

In our continuing series chatting to new citizens about their journey to becoming to Antigua & Barbuda passport holders, we recently met up with entrepreneur and businesswoman Savannah Danson. Born in South Africa, she studied both in the UK and the US. As well as founder and executive chairperson of Bunengi Group, Savannah also serves on the board of other international companies.

You are the executive chairwoman and founder of Bunengi Holdings and Bunengi Investment Group. Can you tell us more about your businesses?

The Bunengi Investment Group is a company that operates and invests in companies that are in resources (mining, water, oil and gas), infrastructure, agriculture, technology and financial services. The companies that Bunengi operates or invests in are in Africa, Australia, the United Kingdom and North America.

You’ve been described as having experience in the mining, finance, infrastructure and media sectors. How would you best describe yourself?

Yes, I do have experience in these sectors. I would describe myself as a person who is invested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) focused companies. I like to be at the forefront of innovation and operating in these kinds of firms allows me to do so.

“Being a global citizen to me means freedom to travel, invest and trade with any democratic country in the world.”

You have obviously got an international profile and many countries offer the possibility of a second citizenship. Why did you choose Antigua & Barbuda?

The Antigua & Barbuda programme was the most interesting to me because of how stringent it was, which showed me that it was a very serious and secure programme. I also felt a kindred connection with the country based on our histories and the historical relationship it held with my continent and my country of birth. It certainly felt like coming home.

What are the advantages for you of having a second citizenship?

There are many, but certainly the diversification of one’s life, and the capacity to travel to more countries with a visa-free mechanism.

How did you find the application process to become an Antigua & Barbuda citizen?

I found the process to be very professional and very requiring, which to me communicated that a thorough job was being done. It was also very efficient. It was a pleasure to be a part of the process and clear that those administering the process knew what they were doing.

You have invested in a property in Antigua. Are you planning to spend a lot of time in the Twin Islands?

I certainly am planning to spend more time in Antigua. Who wouldn’t? It’s such a beautiful and peaceful place filled with amazing people.

Antigua & Barbuda is a growing economy with many different business opportunities. Are you looking for new ventures to invest in here?

As a businesswoman, I am always looking for investment opportunities and I believe that Antigua & Barbuda represents an exciting investment destination.

Would you recommend the Twin Islands as an investment destination to friends?

I would absolutely recommend Antigua & Barbuda as an investment destination to friends and plan to do so.

What does being a global citizen mean to you?

Being a global citizen to me means freedom to travel, invest and trade with any democratic country in the world. It also means understanding more people and being more diverse. It has certainly taught me that we are more alike than we think. It’s a precious gift to me.

Anything else you would like to add? I am very excited to be a citizen of Antigua & Barbuda and look forward to working with my new home country on development wherever I can.