Bahamas News
Expanding Capacity: PHA Commissions Rand Memorial Hospital’s New Modular Units
PHA PRESS RELEASE
The Bahamas, September 1, 2024 – Highlighting a continued commitment to the expansion and upgrading of public hospital facilities, a significant transformation is taking shape at Rand Memorial Hospital. On Thursday, 28 August 2024, the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) commissioned two innovative prefabricated modular units aimed at bolstering the hospital’s capacity to provide quality healthcare services to the residents of the Northern Bahamas.
A Dual Purpose: Special Pathogen Unit and Rehabilitation Services 
The first of these units, a Special Pathogen Unit (SPU), stretches across 4,712 square feet and is designed with versatility in mind. It accommodates fifteen (15) beds for male, female, and pediatric patients, complete with essential medical infrastructure. Equipped with medical gas and vacuum systems, dialysis facilities, and air scrubbers, the SPU is prepared to manage infectious diseases while maintaining a safe environment for both patients and staff.
The SPU’s role extends beyond just infection control. As Rand Memorial undergoes renovations, this unit will temporarily serve as an Accident & Emergency (A&E) relocation space, ensuring that critical care remains uninterrupted. The thoughtful design includes a nurses’ corridor, private bathrooms, and ADA-compliant pathways, reflecting a commitment to both functionality and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
“Today is a momentous occasion for Rand Memorial Hospital and the residents of Grand Bahama who rely on this institution for their healthcare needs. The commissioning of these modular units significantly boosts the hospital’s capacity to meet the demands and challenges of 21st-century healthcare,” stated Dr. Aubynette P. Rolle, PHA’s Managing Director, during the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. “The PHA is actively pursuing phased improvements across our institutions, and the introduction of our Special Pathogen Unit and Rehabilitation Services Unit marks a major step forward in our mission to enhance our facilities and services.”
A Focus on Rehabilitation
Alongside the SPU, a Rehabilitation Services unit has also been completed. Spanning 1,792 square feet, this space features two treatment rooms, an office, and a full-scale gym, all designed to facilitate recovery and rehabilitation for patients. The unit’s design also includes a reception area and staff lounge, providing a welcoming environment for both patients and healthcare professionals.
“We are pleased to offer essential services in Physiotherapy and Recreational Therapy to support the health and well-being of the Grand Bahama community,” notes Director of Rehabilitation Services, Ms. Heather Hanlan. “We are excited about the future and are committed to expanding our services to include a wider range of rehabilitation options. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to the people of Grand Bahama, ensuring they have access to the best possible rehabilitation services close to home.”
A Commitment to Community Health
“The commissioning of these modular units is more than just an expansion of our facilities; it’s a promise to our community,” says PHA Deputy Chairman, Mrs. Annischka Holmes Moncur. “In a time when healthcare needs are evolving, and the demands on our hospital facilities are increasing, we are dedicated to ensuring that our services are not only accessible but also of the highest standard.”
As the PHA continues to invest in healthcare infrastructure, the impact of these new units is expected to resonate throughout the community, providing enhanced care and support for those who need it most today and for decades to come.
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.
