Bahamas News
Minister Moxey says investor confidence in Grand Bahama is strong
FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas — Addressing some important initiatives and developments that are shaping the future of Grand Bahama, Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey said she was pleased to report that on-going investments on the island demonstrates strong investor confidence in the potential of the Grand Bahamian economy.
Her update also provided insight and information on various opportunities which she anticipates will have a positive
impact on the lives of residents of the island.
“The recent developments and investments that have taken place on the island are a testament to the commitment to investments to creating a thriving business environment on Grand Bahama,” said Minister Moxey, during the Office of the Prime Minister’s Weekly Press Briefing, in the conference room of the Ministry of Grand Bahama on Thursday, May 18, 2023.
Minister Moxey pointed to projects like the proposed redevelopment of the Grand Bahama International Airport, the new owners of the former Equinor Terminal, a number of new Resorts expected to come online, as well as a number of local investor companies.
“The Carnival Cruise Port is proceeding very well,” said Minister Moxey. “We get monthly updates on the project and I’m excited about the development taking place there. It’s pretty much on schedule. The Investment of O2 in the Lucayan area is proceeding very well. The land has been cleared and infrastructure is in place. That’s going to create additional opportunities for our people in terms of employment. The Sixth Sense Resort is also on the way and they’re committed to building this in the Discovery Bay area. It will enhance the island’s tourism offering.
“The consistent airline arrivals are encouraging. We have some more work to do, but with the restoration of the new airport, that is expected to increase the numbers. I’m pleased that we are almost there at pre-Dorian, pre-pandemic numbers.
“Equinor was sold to Levithon and it is exciting what’s going to be happening there within two months, during which time there will be some three hundred people on that site with lots of construction for the redevelopment of that industry.”
Minister Moxey said the projects represent diverse assets in the island’s tourism, health care infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. She said she’s committed to creating an environment that supports and encourages such investments in the island’s economy.
“I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that our island thrives,” she added. “I also want to ensure that our people thrive as well. So, the question is ‘how do we lift our people up along with the projects and investments? How do we create entrepreneurial opportunities for our people?’
“Together, let us embrace these opportunities and build strong partnerships, as we continue to recover, rebuild and revolutionize Grand Bahama.”
In addition to direct foreign investment, Minister Moxey revealed that the government is taking the initiative to promote the positive opportunities which are available in Grand Bahama. The Minister pointed to several promotion trips and missions which the government have embarked upon recently in North Carolina, Charlotte, Ottawa and Canada, touting the investment opportunities that exist in The Bahamas, Grand Bahama in particular.
“But we’ve been focusing on innovation,” added Minister Moxey. “In our Blueprint for Change we promised that the Digital 700 would herald transformational opportunities, including new jobs, new services, new industries, and new markets. We’ve also committed to focusing on attracting investment and industry across all sectors. To equip and engage with our embassies, consulates, and the diaspora to assist with promotions. To partner with international organizations for business cultural tourism, educational and humanitarian exchanges. And to advance the Bahamas as a digital society inclusive of smart technology.
“That’s business tourism, agri-tourism, edu-tourism, heritage and film tourism, executive education and smart cities.
We formed a partnership in Ottawa with what is called Hub 350 in the development of our own Innovation Hub.”
Minister Moxey spoke of an upcoming trade and investment mission that is in collaboration with the Caribbean Export Development Agency. It will be held in Ghana and in Lagos, Nigeria. Minister Moxey, who will be travelling with other Government officials on these missions, will be presenting the significant opportunities that Grand Bahama possesses. It will allow the Government of the Bahamas to forge strong trade ties and explore potential investments between Ghana, Nigeria, and The Bahamas.
According to Minister Moxey, this relationship opportunity with Africa is very important for The Bahamas.
“The opportunities in Grand Bahama are endless,” added Minister Moxey. “We are strategically located so close to the state of Florida; we have a major trans-shipment terminal; we have distribution and logistics capabilities; we have a free trade zone in this area, so we’re very attractive for investments. We have identified Grand Bahama Island as the home of maritime and logistics, which it has been for a very long time, but it is also the home of entertainment and the home of innovation.
“As a result, we are supposed to be innovating. We’re supposed to be piloting a lot of these projects that will take The Bahamas to the next level. I believe the opportunities in Grand Bahama have not been tapped into the way they should be.”
(BIS Photo)
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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