Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Abaco Sunny Waters Initiative Launched
Abaco, December 16, 2019 – The Bahamas – In a ceremony dubbed a ‘celebration of hope’ the community of Abaco witnessed the signing of an agreement for Abaco Sunny Waters, a $1.2 million initiative between the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC), The Goodness Tour, Water Mission, and The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), for a solarization project to transform 11 water systems in Abaco, the mainland and the cays that have suffered damage as a result of Hurricane Dorian.
“I am pleased to be here today to participate in the signing of the agreement between the corporation, Water Mission and UNICEF that will result in the supply and installation of a state-of-the-art solar facility that will power both of our well fields in Marsh Harbour plus our new Marsh Harbour pumping station,” said Adrian Gibson, Water and Sewerage Corporation executive chairman, and MP for Long Island.
Mr. Gibson said WSC has successfully restored an interim supply of water for all communities in Abaco and noted the occurrence of periods of low pressure and or no water due to the fragility of the power generation, water production and destruction to the distribution systems.
The chairman addressed the launch Thursday, December 12, 2019 in Marsh Harbour. In attendance was James Albury, Parliamentary Secretary and MP for Central and South Abaco, representatives of NEMA, WSC and NGOs, community leaders and school children.
“I have been extremely impressed with the heart and soul of people of Abaco and Bahamian population as we have come together to demonstrate our resiliency and resolve in the face of utter devastation. Yes, we’ve been knocked down but we’ve definitely have not been knocked out. We’re getting up and we’re building stronger and better than before,” he added.
The Chairman thanked the NGOs for their support and outlined measures that WSC has undertaken since the passage of Dorian. They include the following:
– Interim measures at Treasure Cay and Spring City operations;
– The award of a contract for a new 1.5 million imperial gallon storage tank to replace 2 existing storage tanks that have been extensively damaged;
– The grant of a contract for a new 750,000 imperial gallon tank for Treasure Cay, a 125,000 imperial gallon tank for Grand Cay, and repairs to the existing Green Turtle Cay storage tank;
-The award of a contract for new distribution pumps;
-Processing of contract drawings for a new Pumping Station.
Mr. Gibson said, “In total, contracts in excess of $6 million have been issued for rebuilding works in Abaco.
“The focus in all of our rebuilding efforts is to design and construct climate resilient systems and facilities that can withstand future major storms.”
James Albury, Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, MP for Central and South Abaco, said the signing is the result of hard work and collaboration.
“Pessimism and criticism will not rebuild our communities, our homes or a better world for ourselves and future generations. What we’re doing here today is what makes a better future for ourselves and all those who come after us. It’s a representation of hope, of what we can actually accomplish by working together.”
Etoile Pinder, National Coordinator, UNICEF, said the project is expected to transform Abaco’s damaged water systems into a sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
“This project will not only work to improve the hardware per se of the island but, through the proposed water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) school program, have a lasting impact on the next generation of Abaco,” said Mrs. Pinder.
“Through partnerships with the Ministry of Education and Friends of the Environment greater opportunities will be created for children to experience science up close and personal and hope to inspire the next generation of Bahamian hydrologists, environmental scientists, water resource experts and professionals with a deep understanding of sustainability and resilience.
“It is therefore so inspiring that the WSC has taken this lead role in ensuring that The Bahamas will be an example for other countries in both reducing our carbon footprint through the solarization of the Abaco well fields, and being such an advocate for the involvement of Bahamian children. We are truly lifting up our heads to the rising sun and the world will mark the manner of our bearing,” added Mrs. Pinder.
Coopers Town Primary Ensemble led by The Goodness Tour provided entertainment. The unveiling of a mural by Benjamin Swatez of The Goodness Tour also took place.
By Kathryn Campbell
Release: BIS
Photo Caption:
Header: The Water and Sewerage Corporation led by Executive Chairman, Adrian Gibson (seated 3rd from left) and representatives of NGOs sign a contract for the transformation of water systems in Abaco. James Albury, Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, is pictured seated at far right.
BIS Photos/Patrick Hanna
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James Albury, MP for Central and South Abaco and Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, gives welcome remarks.
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Coopers Town Primary School Ensemble performs.
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Executive Chairman of Water and Sewerage Corporation, Adrian Gibson speaks at the launch of Abaco Sunny Waters initiative.
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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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