Bahamas News
North Eleuthera International Airport to get $55 million upgrade
By LINDSAY THOMPSON
Bahamas Information Services
NORTH ELEUTHERA, The Bahamas –– The country’s third busiest airport is set to get an economic boost through a multi-million-dollar upgrade to its facilities.
(Prime Minister addressing)
On Monday, September 9, 2024 scores of excited residents witnessed the formalization of a $55 million Loan Agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and Saudi Fund for Development.
The Signing Ceremony took place just beyond the runway of the North Eleuthera International Airport, which is set for massive expansion and upgrade to adequately service the outlying districts of Harbour Island and Spanish Wells, as well as a growing private jet air traffic schedule.
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis led a delegation of high-ranking government officials including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Senator the Hon. Michael Halkitis, Minister of Economic Affairs; the Hon. Clay Sweeting, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs; Dr. Kenneth Romer, Deputy Director General of Tourism and Acting Director of Aviation; and Paul Bevans, chairman, Airport Authority.
Also present was His Excellency Mr. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer, Saudi Fund for Development, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and his delegation.
(Residents & Officials)
“Today marks an important chapter for this island, and it is a privilege to witness Eleuthera’s tremendous progress firsthand,” said Prime Minister Davis.
Eleuthera, historically known as the ‘Land of Freedom,’ is rich in heritage and tradition, and acknowledged by the government as one of the fastest-growing economies in the country.
“You’ve seen the changes all around — new businesses, thriving tourism, and a brighter future on the horizon. But what truly matters isn’t just the numbers we celebrate, it’s the people. It’s the hardworking families who have called Eleuthera home for generations and the younger ones who now see even greater possibilities for their future,” said the prime minister.
He observed that the steady rise in air arrivals and international interest isn’t just about visitors coming to enjoy the beauty of Eleuthera; but all that the people, economy, culture, and environment have to offer.
(Signing Ceremony)
“This partnership with the Saudi Fund for Development marks a turning point for Eleuthera and its people. For years, there has been talk about upgrading the North Eleuthera International Airport, but today we are moving from talk to action. This $55 million investment is about unlocking Eleuthera’s potential and ensuring that its people can fully benefit from the island’s rapid growth.” He said.
Deputy Prime Minister Cooper also thanked the Saudi Fund for Development for being a dedicated partner in The Bahamas’ journey toward infrastructural and economic development, and said its continued support is deeply appreciated.
“The commitment you have demonstrated toward our development goals as laid out in our Blueprint for Change has been impactful and we know that this partnership will blossom in the many years to come,” he said.
The loan comes at “favourable terms” including a low interest rate of 2.5 percent, and twenty-five (25) years to repay with the first installment due in five years.
(Handshake)
In March of 2023, the Davis Administration embarked on the Family Islands Airport Renaissance Project. This far-reaching programme is part of the broader vision outlined in the Government’s Blueprint for Change, which places a strong emphasis on the importance of investing in the Family Islands.
The Family Islands Airport Renaissance Project aims to transform not just the North Eleuthera International Airport, but 14 airports across the archipelago, marking the largest and most comprehensive development effort in the history of Bahamian aviation.
“We committed to engage Public Private Partnerships to finance, build and manage key airport infrastructure. This loan signifies the benefits and progress of international partnerships in this regard,” Deputy Prime Minister Cooper said.
He noted that the North Eleuthera International Airport serves as the gateway to the island and is a major driver of tourism and commerce.
As of June 2024, there was a 32 percent increase in foreign air arrivals to Eleuthera compared to the same period in 2019, and a 2 percent increase over record-setting 2023 figures.
(Minister Clay Sweeting)
“The existing infrastructure at North Eleuthera is no longer sufficient to accommodate the rising number of passengers and aircraft. The adding of the trailer facility for departures provided some much-needed temporary relief,” he said.
The planned upgrades to North Eleuthera Airport will encompass a complete overhaul of the terminal facilities, as well as airside improvements that include the revamp of the runway, and an expanded apron space. On completion, it will be capable of accommodating 400 passengers in the departure lounge, plus significant retail opportunities.
These upgrades will ensure that the airport is capable of handling larger aircraft, accommodating more passengers and offering a level of service that meets international standards as mandated by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The project will also incorporate sustainable and resilient solutions, designed to withstand storm surges and hurricane winds of up to Category 5.
His Excellency Mr. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, also spoke of the significant milestone reached with the signing of the agreement. He deemed it a “new chapter” in relations between both countries and underscored the shared commitment in advancing aviation in the country.
The partnership between The Bahamas and the Saudi Fund has already proven successful in the past. In July 2023, the $10million facility for the Tourism Development Corporation’s incubation centers in Nassau, Grand Bahama and Exuma was implemented. And in June 2024 another loan agreement was entered into on favorable terms for the construction of the Exuma International Airport.
(BIS Photos/Kemuel Stubbs)
PHOTO CAPTION
(Signing Ceremony)
On Monday, September 9, 2024 scores of excited residents witnessed the formalization of a $55 million Loan Agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and Saudi Fund for Development at the North Eleuthera International Airport. Pictured seated L-R: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; His Excellency Mr. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer, Saudi Fund for Development; and Paul Bevans, Chairman, Airport Authority. Standing L-R: the Hon. Clay Sweeting, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs; Dr. Kenneth Romer, Deputy Director General of Tourism and Acting Director of Aviation; Senator the Hon. Michael Halkitis, Minister of Economic Affairs; and Sylvanus Petty, Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera.
(Handshake)
A $55 million Loan Agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and Saudi Fund for Development was signed at North Eleuthera International Airport on Monday, September 9, 2024. Pictured L-R: the Hon. Clay Sweeting, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; His Excellency Mr. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer, Saudi Fund for Development; and Paul Bevans, Chairman, Airport Authority. Second row L-R: Dr. Kenneth Romer, Deputy Director General of Tourism and Director of Aviation; Senator the Hon. Michael Halkitis, Minister of Economic Affairs; and Sylvanus Petty, Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera.
(Prime Minister addressing)
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis speaks at the Signing Ceremony of a $55 million Loan Agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Saudi Fund for Development at North Eleuthera International Airport on Monday, September 9, 2024
(His Excellency & PM Davis)
His Excellency Mr. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer, Saudi Fund for Development, and Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis share a moment.
(Minister Clay Sweeting)
The Hon. Clay Sweeting, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs speaks at the Signing Ceremony of a $55 million Loan Agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Saudi Fund for Development at North Eleuthera International Airport on Monday, September 9, 2024.
(Residents & Officials)
Residents and Officials at the Signing Ceremony.
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.
NASSAU, Bahamas — More Bahamians are accessing HIV and sexually transmitted infection-related healthcare through National Health Insurance, a trend the NHI Authority says should be viewed positively.
NHIA stressed in an August 6 statement that its 2025 figures measure healthcare utilisation, not newly diagnosed infections. They include beneficiaries screened, treated, monitored or receiving follow-up care, including people diagnosed previously.
“Increased utilisation of these services should be viewed as a positive development,” NHIA said.
The Authority pointed to “greater enrolment and use of NHI, improved access to screening and testing, continued treatment and monitoring of existing conditions, and increased willingness to seek medical care.”
The development comes amid a mixed three-year HIV picture. New diagnoses rose from 130 in 2023 to 156 in 2024, before declining to 142 in 2025.
NHIA said increased utilisation demonstrates that more beneficiaries are accessing needed healthcare and actively managing their health, reinforcing the importance of screening, early diagnosis and continued treatment.
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