Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Minister Thompson: ‘I believe the outlook for our island is hopeful’
#Bahamas, February 25, 2018 – Grand Bahama – “I firmly believe 2018 will be a better year than 2017. I believe the outlook for our island is hopeful.”
These were the words of encouragement by Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson, to those attending the opening of the 20th Annual Grand Bahama Business Outlook, on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at Grand Lucayan resort.
The Minister of State told GB Port Authority executives, business owners, corporate and Chamber executives attending the conference that he, along with a number of his Cabinet and Parliamentary colleagues were all in the private sector just a few months ago, and were in a fight to survive, just like many business owners attending Business Outlook.
It is that ability to identify with those in the private sector that, the Minister says, fuels their passion to make a difference in Grand Bahama.
“If we truly want the Bahamas to succeed, Grand Bahama must succeed,” added Minister Thompson. “It will require a national and unified focus, innovative ideas, political courage and will, an opening of the gates for investment, less red tape and more red carpet, a willingness to change and simple old fashioned faith.”
Minister Thompson said that the government has embarked upon a major mission to diversify the economy, provide employment for Bahamians at home and abroad, and provide that critical mass or population for Grand Bahama, by establishing The Bahamas, particularly Grand Bahama Island, as a leading technology hub.
“In December the government appointed a Tech Hub Steering Committee tasked with making full recommendations to the government,” said Minister Thompson. “I am pleased to say they have completed and have made the recommendations to government.
He outlined some of those recommendations, and said, “One potential technology company is now in the process of applying for a license, specializing in cyber Fraud Detection, Cyber Data Intelligence, and Operation Excellence and has indicated their intent to hire 50 Bahamians within the first year of operation, and another 85 in the second year.”
Minister Thompson noted that based on the success of the first Grand Bahama Technology Summit, the government, along with the Technology Steering Committee, has committed to making the conference an annual one in November. They are also in the process of planning a major international Venture Capital conference for Block chain and Crypto currency in May of this year.
“We want to welcome leaders in this industry to not only discuss this industry, but showcase Grand Bahama in the process. This is the future and we in Grand Bahama must be prepared to show the world that we are going to be a major player for this region.”
By: Andrew Coakley
Photo Caption: Senator Kwasi Thompson addressing attendees at the 20th Annual Grand Bahama Business Outlook at Grand Lucayan resort on February 22, 2018.
(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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