Bahamas News
NEMA Gets Disaster Relief Equipment from Japan
#Nassau, October 3, 2018 – Bahamas – The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) officially accepted equipment and products under the Government of Japan’s Economic and Social Cooperation to The Bahamas initiative, during an Official Hand Over Ceremony held Monday, October 1, 2018.
Worth an estimated $1.8 million, the equipment would be used to respond to adverse effects of climate change and especially boost the country’s ability to deal with natural disasters. The contribution would facilitate disaster risk management, disaster response and disaster restoration. In addition, training and other necessary services for operation, maintenance of equipment or consultant services would be covered.
The ceremony was held at NEMA on Gladstone Road, where on hand to receive the equipment and deliver the government’s response was the Hon. Renward Wells, Minister of Transport and Local Government. Also present were Captain Stephen Russell, Director of NEMA, Mr. Shinichi Yamanaka, Charge d’Affaires, ad interim, Embassy of Japan to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, and other officials.
“During the past years, The Bahamas has continued to forge stronger ties with other regional and international partners to support its mitigation and preparedness activities, all with a view of building capacity and knowledge exchange,” Mr. Wells said.
“It is through such relations and diplomatic ties that we are here today, with the Government of Japan handing over this equipment, which augurs well for NEMA’s overall disaster management plan.”
On Sunday, April 10, 2016 the Government of Japan extended a grant-in-aid to the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, to acquire much-needed equipment and skills to enhance the disaster management programme of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA.
“The challenge faced in the immediate aftermath of a major storm is to render timely assistance to especially the far-flung islands in our archipelago,” Mr. Wells said. The equipment augments NEMA’s Emergency Support Function.
The equipment includes a wheel crane, tractor head, 40-ft. semi trailers, flatbed cargo trucks, and refrigerated container. Other supplies are enroute to The Bahamas.
It is NEMA’s aim to have a set of equipment in the Disaster Relief Warehouses of Hawksbill, Grand Bahama (The Northern Bahamas); Coral 
Harbour New Providence (The Central Bahamas); Great Inagua (Southern Bahamas); and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Roll-On Roll-Off transporting relief apparatus.
The Bahamas benefited from similar aid from Japan in 1999 in the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd. Products purchased included portable generators among other equipment used for storms and hurricanes that have impacted The Bahamas over the years: “For this, we are very grateful to the Japanese Government,” Mr. Wells said.
Captain Russell noted that local personnel are being trained in how to use and maintain the equipment. “The collection of heavy duty equipment is to fill a gap as a result of the challenges encountered with our pre and post disaster logistics and transport mechanism,” he said. “I am truly pleased about the continued partnership and friendships between the government and people of Japan, and the government and people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.”
By Lindsay Thompson
Release: BIS
Photo Caption: Official Hand Over Ceremony of disaster relief equipment from Japan to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, October 1, 2018 at NEMA. Among officials at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, pictured, are Cora Colebrooke, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport and Local Government; the Hon. Renward Wells, Minister of Transport and Local Government; Mr. Shinichi Yamanaka, Charge d’ Affaires, ad interim, Embassy of Japan to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas; and Captain Stephen Russell, Director of NEMA.
(BIS Photos)
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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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