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Caribbean Wellness Day 2021

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#Caribbean, September 13, 2021 – Health, in every facet, is sought-after, at great expense, by all members of the global community. Though the success of our endeavours in health varies from region to region, it must be emphasised that in our Region, a healthy Caribbean is always the goal for which we strive.

Each year the Caribbean Region observes, Caribbean Wellness Day since it was established at the 2007 landmark summit, ‘Declaration of Port of Spain: Uniting to Stop the Epidemic of Chronic Non-communicable Diseases.’

This year’s commemoration focuses on equitable access to health; an all of society approach to health and well-being, and building healthy communities under the theme, “Power Through Collective Action: In it Together, Building Healthy Communities.”

As health care systems are being taxed by the devastating effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic, it is even more important now to advocate for equitable access to health. Too many of our Caribbean citizens face harsh realities, because of inequities in access – this should not be. Caribbean Wellness Day is the most opportune time for the members of our Caribbean community to ensure that the health of our people is indeed a priority through legislative change, health in all policies and all of society action.

Equitable access to health care in the Caribbean is one of CARPHA’s points of focus as can be seen through our work to ensure equitable access to PPE, equipment, supplies and vaccines through the COVAX facility, a mechanism whose primary function is to ensure the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and donations notably the US Government donation of 5.5 million doses of Pfizer BioNTech.

Without the power of voices in chorus, like with the COVAX facility; the Caribbean Cooperation in Health (CCH) and others – many more would be disadvantaged and unserved. Achieving health for all in the Caribbean also means attaining and sustaining healthy environments.

The built environment, which provides for sidewalks, bike lanes, community parks and green spaces, can influence lifestyles, body weight, and improve mental health. As these necessary frameworks are made reality and we avail ourselves of them, we exercise Power through Collective Action showing that we are truly in it together, Building Healthy Communities.

As we speak about the environment, we must mention the effects of climate change. The inaction in the past has set the world on a course of environmental destruction. We need to act now; it is the only way that we can protect the generations to come from even worse realities than those we face today.

As we seek to mitigate the damage done due to inaction on the recommended major climate change interventions, we need to address other pertinent issues. Vector-borne diseases remain a challenge in many Caribbean territories, and unlike the bleak outlook that is presented on climate change, simple adjustments in our behaviour can make the world of difference.

By eradicating breeding grounds of mosquitoes in our immediate environment and communities, we minimize the spread of many vector-borne diseases. Advocacy in health should be the standard operation of every Region, State, and organisation. Sustaining Health and well-being is one of the very few universal desires.

Regardless of creed, culture, or any other divisive line – all organised bodies have a responsibility to promote health. Further to this, we need to take the time to look after ourselves and our families and communities.

Simple actions – increasing our intake of local produce, reading labels of processed foods to make informed decisions, scheduling regular exercise – these actions will drastically improve the health and quality of life of our people.

Working together to this end, will lead to healthier minds, healthier bodies, and a Caribbean that exudes wellness.

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Bahamas News

RBDF Operation Strengthens Maritime Security Amidst Regional Turmoil

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Defence Headquarters, 17 MAR. ’24: A joint operation between the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) led to the apprehension of 50 Haitian migrants approximately 5 nautical miles west of Bell Island on Saturday, March 16th.

The operation was initiated following the initial sighting of a sailing vessel, believed to be of Haitian origin, 8 miles southwest of Staniel Cay in the Exumas. RBDF swiftly deployed air and surface assets stationed at Matthew Town Inagua, supported by Police officials in Staniel Cay who verified the sighting. The migrants were intercepted by RBDF personnel stationed at the Land and Sea Park, Wardrick Wells Exuma, and subsequently handed over to the safe boat crew. They are currently under apprehension pending further investigation, with the imminent arrival of HMBS Rolly Gray.

In response to the ongoing instability in Haiti, Commodore Raymond King has announced the implementation of a strategic blockade in the southern Bahamas. This initiative includes the deployment of six surface vessels, one aircraft, and 120 highly skilled RBDF personnel. Patrol operations will be concentrated in critical areas such as the northern coast of Haiti, the Old Bahama Channel, and the Windward Passage, with the aim of deterring unauthorized entry attempts and preserving maritime security in the region.

The effectiveness of these decisive measures is evident, with recent apprehensions totaling 247 individuals by the RBDF. Commodore Raymond E. King emphasizes the commitment to bolstering maritime security through collaborative efforts with regional partners and local law enforcement agencies.

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force remains committed to safeguarding the nation’s borders and territorial integrity, working collaboratively with regional partners.

(For further information please contact the RBDF Public Relations Department or visit our website: www.rbdf.gov.bs, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and view our Youtube channel)

-rbdf-

#GuardOurHeritage

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CIBC CARIBBEAN and Bahamas Girl Guides Association host inaugural Delaney Leadership Seminar

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Nassau, Bahamas, February 28, 2024 – Enthusiastic girl guides, ranger guides, and girls representing schools across The Bahamas recently gathered at the first ever Delaney Leadership Seminar.

The seminar, named in honor of CIBC FirstCaribbean’s (now CIBC Caribbean) first female chief executive officer, Ms. Colette Delaney, empowered the next generation of female leaders through focused sessions on leadership development, cultivating a leadership mindset, and the importance of building strong, supportive friendships. 

The event featured a series of team building exercises, interactive discussions, and a keynote address by Dr. Jacqui Bend, CIBC Caribbean’s Managing Director. Dr. Bend shared insights on the essence of leadership, guiding principles, and emphasized the role of young women in shaping a vibrant future for The Bahamas and beyond.

“It was a privilege to witness the incredible energy and budding potential of the young leaders that participated. Leadership is not just about guiding others; it’s about inspiring action and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. The Delaney Leadership Seminar is a testament to CIBC Caribbean’s commitment to nurturing young, bright minds and equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to lead with purpose and passion,” said Dr. Bend.

Held under the theme, Our World, Our Bahamas, Our Thriving Future, the seminar underscored the importance of lifelong learning, perseverance, empathy, and collaboration in leadership, among other guiding principles. Dr. Bend highlighted the strides already being made by the participants and encouraged them to continue exploring their potential and envisioning their roles in creating positive change within their communities and the wider world.

Delina Rolle, a tenth-grade participant and aspiring lawyer from Preston H. Albury High School in Eleuthera, shared, “This seminar has been a life-changing experience for me. Hearing Dr. Bend’s success story and her tips were inspiring for me as a young girl trying to be a leader. I am happy I was selected by my school’s administration to attend and connect with so many amazing girls who share my dreams of making a difference.”

The Delaney Leadership Seminar has set a new benchmark for youth leadership programs in The Bahamas. The event concluded with a commitment from both CIBC Caribbean and the Bahamas Girl Guides Association (BGGA) to continue their support for youth leadership initiatives. 

In 2022, CIBC FirstCaribbean donated to the BGGA to assist in completing the interior of its $1.5 million, West Bay Street headquarters, which will feature meeting rooms, office spaces, training areas, accommodations for girl guides visiting from other countries and other essential working areas.

It was at that time that Dr. Bend affirmed the bank’s commitment to support organizations that mirror the bank’s promise to assist women and girls in the communities it serves. Prior to that, the bank donated several native trees to BGGA, which were planted at its campsite, Camp Discovery, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Housing’s Forestry Unit.

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BAMSI BRINGS IN PUREBRED ANIMALS TO DIVERSIFY NATIVE HERD

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Nassau, Bahamas, March 6th, 2024 – IN A STRATEGIC MOVE to boost the genetic quality of livestock available in the country, the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) recently collaborated with the Department of Agriculture to acquire purebred small ruminants (sheep and goats).  The initiative is part of BAMSI’s broader breeding programme to inject quality genetics into the local livestock population.  Shedding light on the project’s objectives and timeline, Dr Mark Butler, the Institute’s Veterinarian, said the animals promise a more sustainable and prosperous future for the local farming community.

The newly acquired stock of animals, Dorper and Barbados Black Belly sheep and Boer and Savanna goats, are integral to the upcoming artificial insemination programme which BAMSI is set to commence later this year.  

“The new animals will be used in one arm of our breeding programme, facilitating natural mating to ensure genetic diversity and quality,” Dr Butler explained.  “The goal is to increase the herd and improve genetic traits, and we anticipate over 85 per cent success in terms of animals giving birth—a crucial marker for the programme’s success.”

Currently, 30 sheep and 30 goats are part of the breeding programme, with the expectation of 50 to 60 live births by the end of the year.  The focus is not only on increasing the herd size but also on ensuring the genetic quality of the offspring.

“We want offspring that exhibit high genetic quality.  Purebred Dorper sheep and Boer goats show better growth rates and are ideal for farmers looking for efficient weight gain at market age,” Dr Butler emphasized. 

Ayrett Lightbourne, BAMSI’s Farm Manager, addressed why BAMSI chose these specific breeds, and their potential impact on the local livestock industry.  “The Dorper Sheep, for example, gains weight faster than native breeds, offering a different market for lean meat consumers.  Similarly, the Boer and Savanna goats, being larger and more meat-producing, contribute significantly to improving meat quality in the country.”

The imported purebred animals will create a nucleus herd at BAMSI’s farm in Andros to upgrade the existing livestock population.  Their offspring will breed with the native flock, and some of the offspring will be distributed to local farmers.  This collaborative effort between BAMSI and the Ministry of Agriculture aims to enhance the genetic potential of the native flocks, ultimately benefiting farmers and consumers alike.

The BAMSI herd, comprising 190 animals, is expected to grow as the breeding programme progresses.  The next phase involves artificial insemination, marking a crucial step towards achieving BAMSI’s goal of increasing the quantity and improving the genetic quality of Bahamian livestock.  The institute’s dedication to scientific advancements in agriculture promises a more sustainable and prosperous future for the local farming community.

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