Bahamas News
Prime Minister Davis says he was in Botswana representing ‘not just The Bahamas but the spirit of unity and cooperation that transcends oceans’
GABORONE, Botswana – During his Official Remarks at the Joint Press Conference with President Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana, on March 18, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said that it filled him “with immense joy and a deep sense of privilege” to be there among friends in the Republic of Botswana, representing “not just The Bahamas but the spirit of unity and cooperation that transcends oceans.”
“I am here not solely in my capacity as Prime Minister, but as someone who deeply believes in the power of connection and the beauty of exchange,” Prime Minister Davis said during the event held in the Mass Media Complex, in Gaborone. “I want to thank His Excellency Dr. Masisi and the People of the Republic of Botswana for their hospitality. Your invitation is a bridge being built between
our nations, a gesture that signifies hope and the promise of mutual growth.”
He added: “In Botswana, there’s a saying, ‘Motho ke motho ka batho,’ – let me translate – ‘I am because we are’. This proverb resonates deeply with the Bahamian spirit, where community and shared progress form the cornerstone of our identity. As today begins my official visit, I am reminded that this philosophy underpins our aspirations for being here: to strengthen the bonds that unite us and explore new territories of collaboration for the prosperity of our people.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that the two nations’ shared journey towards sustainable development, embracing technology, and addressing climate change was more than just a meeting of minds, as it was “a partnership of hearts, aiming to secure a brighter future for both our nations.”
“We are here to listen, learn, and engage in dialogue that I believe will lead to paths of shared success and opportunities that our children will inherit and thank us for,” he said.
Prime Minister Davis added that, recalling the visit of His Excellency to The Bahamas the year before, he was reminded of the “seeds of friendship” that were sown.
“That visit was a cornerstone moment, paving the way for the Memorandum of Understanding that has since blossomed into avenues of cooperation across diverse sectors,” he stated. “During those precious moments of exchange, we realized the vast potential that lies in our partnership, a realization that today’s discussions will undoubtedly deepen.”
“My brother Masisi, your leadership has significantly influenced Botswana, navigating it through challenges with a focus on stability and progressive reforms,” Prime Minister Davis added. “Balancing economic diversification with technological and environmental advancements, your tenure has shown a commitment to sustainable growth, resulting in an enhanced effort for Botswana’s global standing.”
Prime Minister Davis revealed that the bilateral meeting earlier that morning was fruitful and indicative of the vast potential the countries have for collaboration. It was clear, he added, that The Bahamas and Botswana were on a path of “significant partnership, ready to explore and harness opportunities for our mutual benefit.”
“I am excited to announce that The Bahamas is prepared to open doors for the people of Botswana to come and learn our approach, for example, to tourism and hospitality,” he said. “This exchange will undoubtedly enrich both our countries, fostering growth and innovation.”
Prime Minister Davis added that, furthermore, The Bahamas remained committed to assisting the Central Bank of Botswana in the development of its digital currency. That venture, he added, spoke to their shared vision of embracing technology for economic advancement.
“I believe, for example, that the island of Grand Bahama is poised to play an integral role in trade between the United States and Africa, bridging continents and cultures,” Prime Minister Davis noted. “Similarly, we are also eager to explore programs akin to those we have with Ghana, focusing on the exchange of technical medical nurses and allied health professionals, which will enrich The Bahamas’ healthcare system with invaluable expertise and compassion.”
“Building on our signed Memorandum of Understanding, which has already opened doors to numerous opportunities for educational
exchange, we are thrilled to further expand our partnership,” he added. “The Government of The Bahamas is pleased to announce that our Bahamas [Ministry of ] Agriculture and Marine Resources will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources.”
That collaboration will pave the way for groundbreaking research and development in both countries, Prime Minister Davis stated, leveraging their rich natural resources for sustainable progress.
“To His Excellency President Masisi and all the gracious people of Botswana, your warmth and generosity touch us deeply,” he said. “We embark on these talks with the hope and determination to foster a relationship that, like the mighty baobab, will grow strong and enduring, offering shade and shelter to our generations yet to come.”
“I look forward to the days ahead and I am optimistic about the seeds of cooperation we are about to sow,” Prime Minister Davis added. “Together, let us cultivate a garden of prosperity that will stand as a testament to the strength of our partnership.
“I want to thank you all for the warm welcome. Let’s make history together.”
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.
