Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Homeowners hear of provisions under the Economic Empowerment Zones Bill
#Nassau, August 21, 2018 – Bahamas – Facilitators of The Over-the-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative conducted yet another workshop on provisions under the Economic Empowerment Zones Bill, at Salem Union Baptist Church on Taylor Street. Held on Tuesday, 
August 14, 2018 the workshop was geared towards homeowners and renters. This came on the heels of the first workshop held Thursday, August 9, for businesspersons.
Samita Ferguson, Executive Manager, Over-the-Hill Unit in the Office of The Prime Minister, noted they were happy to engage once again representatives from various agencies who were able to speak on matters pertaining to the process of home renovation that could benefit homeowners/renters. Components of the Economic Empowerment Zones Bill are designed to encourage residential and commercial property development and investment in these zones through various tax incentives.
Representatives of agencies who provided pertinent information were from Inland Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Works, and the National Insurance Board. Residents of Bain and Grants Town, Centreville and vicinity were advised on the supporting documents required for application submission, as well as the eligibility requirements for concessions.
In addition, Chrystal Glinton, Deputy Permanent Secretary at National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) gave a presentation on comprehensive disaster management and the overall functions of NEMA. She informed the attendees of the necessary steps and plans in securing their properties – homes and businesses. Ms. Glinton also participated in presentation of hurricane kits to residents donated by Fidelity Bank.
At the end of the session, individuals were able to connect one-on-one with representatives from the various agencies for personal advice.
The Over-the-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative calls for the creation of economic empowerment zones aimed at granting tax concessions to hom.e and business owners in poverty-stricken areas.
Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis said under this initiative, his government wants to decrease the income gap and improve quality of life. Among the first transformations to take place will be re-development of Over-the-Hill landmarks — McPherson Park, Father Marshall Cooper Park, and the historic Southern Recreation Grounds.
Ketra Todd of the Economic Development & Planning Unit of the Office of the Prime Minister presented provisions under the Bill, which was passed in the House of Assembly and the Senate on July 26 and August 9, 2018, respectively.
The Over-the-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative is built around six key pillars:
- Social Empowerment and the Preservation of Bahamian Heritage;
- Rejuvenation;
- Smart Technology;
- Green Technology;
- Youth and Elderly Empowerment; and
- Economic Empowerment.
The Initiative is led by the Office of the Prime Minister, through the Over-the-Hill Unit.
More workshops outlining the initiative and provisions under the Economic Empowerment Zones Bill will be held to further enlighten residents in the respective zoned-areas.
By Lindsay Thompson
Release: BIS
Photo Captions:
Header: Ketra Todd, of the Economic Development & Planning Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister presents provisions under the Economic Empowerment Zones Bill 2018, during a workshop at Salem Union Baptist Church, Taylor Street, on Tuesday, August 14, 2018.
Insert: Residents attending a workshop on tax concessions under the Economic Empowerment Zones Bill at Salem Union Baptist Church, Taylor Street, on Tuesday, August 14, 2018. The measure is a component of The Over-the-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative, led by the Over-the-Hill Unit, in the Office of the Prime Minister.
(BIS Photo/Kristaan Ingraham)
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Dasani products, proudly sponsored the fifth annual, Caribbean Hoopfest.
The tournament brings together Bahamian high school basketball teams and visiting teams from the United States for a competitive
showcase at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium. Following its inaugural year at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym and last year’s event at Loyola Hall, the tournament returned to the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym this year.
During the weekend tournament, CBC kept athletes well hydrated with in-kind donations of Dasani Water, Powerade and Minute Maid Juices.
During the tournament’s final day, CBC provided additional support by offering Sprite No Sugar samples and inviting attendees to participate in its Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes.
CBC was proud to support this incredible event, which provides young Bahamian athletes with valuable exposure to U.S. basketball scouts and coaches. This opportunity gives them the chance to earn scholarships, continue their education, and pursue their basketball careers in the United States.
Event organizer, Donald Francois shared his appreciation for CBC’s support.
“I want to express our sincere appreciation for Caribbean Bottling Company, who has been a tremendous supporter and an important part of the success of our program. Without CBC’s support, Caribbean Hoop Fest would not be able to function at the level it does today. And without Caribbean Hoop Fest, we would not have been able to provide the opportunities that have helped young Bahamian athletes gain exposure and pursue educational opportunities in the United States,” he expressed.
Since the program’s inception, several Bahamian student-athletes have been selected for scholarship opportunities, highlighting the
tournament’s growing impact on the development and advancement of young basketball talent in The Bahamas.
They are: Kelvin McDowells – Guard, Wodson Antoine – Power Forward, Justin Lafleur – Guard and Sean John – Guard.
After another successful edition of the tournament, Francois shared what he hopes he and Caribbean Bottling Company can achieve in the future.
“Our vision is bigger than basketball. We want to use the platform of Caribbean Hoop Fest to educate, develop, and create opportunities for young people and their families throughout the Bahamas. With individuals and organizations committed to our mission, we believe we can continue to grow the program and make an even greater impact,” Francois said.
For more details on community support, events and new products visit Caribbean Bottling Company at www.cbcbahamas.com today.
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