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North Eleuthera International Airport to get $55 million upgrade

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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.

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.

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Nassau Cruise Port Expands Waste Management Program to Champion Sustainability

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Solange Carter, Guest Experience Concierge, disposes of plastic bottles in new recycle bins at Nassau Cruise Port. The bins are a part of the new sustainable waste management program that was recently implemented at NCP to reduce waste and promote environmental sustainability to protect marine life.

[Nassau, Bahamas, March 18, 2025] – Today, Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) is excited to celebrate Global Recycling Day by announcing the launch of its new ‘Cruisin’ Green’ sustainable waste management program. This timely initiative focuses on promoting sustainable practices and reducing waste throughout the port in alignment with our broader commitment to environmental sustainability and protecting our marine ecosystems.  Through this highly anticipated initiative, NCP will engage tenants, vendors, employees, cruise lines, cruise passengers, and local visitors in creating a cleaner, greener environment by collecting and sorting cardboard, aluminum cans, glass, and paper products.

This significant initiative also signifies the growth of our partnerships with key local organizations, including the New Providence Ecology Park (NPEP), the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP), and the Department of Environmental Health Services (DEHS).

“Cruisin’ Green is not just a recycling program; it represents a significant part of our ongoing dedication to sustainability and sets a benchmark within the cruise and maritime industry,” said Mike Maura, CEO and Director of Nassau Cruise Port. “Our mission is to lead by example and inspire the industry to adopt similar green initiatives, By collaborating with our partners, tenants, and community, we intend to create lasting changes that benefit the environment and future generations of Bahamians for many years.”

Yeshantai Thompson, Health, Safety, & Environment Manager at Nassau Cruise Port, explained how the program will be implemented and emphasized its importance. “By integrating strategically placed recycling bins, clear signage, comprehensive training, and community-driven initiatives, we are fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. Through collaboration with our partners, we aim to engage as many stakeholders as possible in this movement toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

Nassau Cruise Port is committed to minimizing its environmental impact and playing a key role in promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly future within the cruise industry and throughout The Bahamas.  For more information about the Cruisin’ Green initiative and details about how to get involved, follow Nassau Cruise Port online or visit nassaucruiseport.com.

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GBPA LAUNCHES TECH EDGE 2.0 – INTERNSHIP PROGRAM FOR BAHAMIANS

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PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE GRAND BAHAMA PORT AUTHORITY, LIMITED

 

Tuesday, March 18, 2025 – Grand Bahama, The Bahamas – The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) is proud to announce the launch of Tech Edge 2.0, a paid remote internship program, connecting eligible Bahamian candidates—both locally and abroad—with global career-building opportunities in the fields of cybersecurity, mobile app development, data science, and artificial intelligence (AI). According to GBPA executives, this initiative is a significant step in positioning Grand Bahama as a leader in the digital economy while providing Bahamians with valuable experience in high-demand tech fields.

“Tech Edge 2.0 is more than an internship program—it is a pipeline to professional success”, commented Derek Newbold, Chief Investment Officer for GBPA and Invest Grand Bahama. “With nearly 200 Bahamians already registered, including Bahamians residing in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and across the islands of The Bahamas, this program is bridging the gap between education and employment, equipping participants with job-ready skills and fostering a new generation of innovators ready to contribute to the advancement of technology and innovation in The Bahamas.”                                                                                                                                                                                                          Currently, there are 10 internship placements available, with additional spaces being added as more companies join the program. GBPA, through its Tech Edge 2.0 program, has partnered with four leading international technology firms, including Prophaze (California, USA), Cognetik Labs, Cybermindr, and Digital5 Solutions, to provide paid remote internship training and employment opportunities. All are start-up companies and emerging titans across cybersecurity, API security, and AI-driven threat detection fields. They also cover software development, IT infrastructure, and cloud computing.

Pleased with the evolution of the Tech Edge Program, which initially launched in 2023, President of GBPA, Ian Rolle, noted that he is highly optimistic about the program’s success to date and its proven potential to help drive Grand Bahama as the Tech and Innovation Hub of the nation. “These partnerships are unlocking global opportunities for Bahamians and proving that Grand Bahama is serious about technology. Further, it offers Bahamians direct access to the international job market—without having to leave home.” Rolle stated. “This program is about ensuring that our people are equipped with top-tier training to develop the requisite skills and career pathways to thrive in the digital economy,” Rolle continued.

The Tech Edge 2.0 Internship Program is open to eligible Bahamians worldwide who hold a college degree or are currently pursuing one in a technology-related field, have a strong interest in cybersecurity, AI, mobile app development, data science, or IT infrastructure, and are eager to gain real-world experience and work remotely with cutting-edge tech companies.

Ian Rolle

Applications for Tech Edge 2.0 are now open and will close on March 21, 2025. Interested candidates can apply online at www.techedgebahamas.com, where they will find step-by-step guidance on the application process.                                                                                                                                            GBPA’s project coordinator for Tech Edge 2.0, Jecholiah Braynen, described the initiative as a long-term investment in The Bahamas’ tech workforce and economic growth. “Through our partnership with Quess Corp, a multinational business service provider, based in India, GBPA is building the requisite skills within the Bahamian workforce and equipping them with job-ready skills and experience. This program creates opportunities to drive economic growth, establish new career opportunities, and attract tech companies to the Bahamas by creating a sustainable ecosystem where Bahamians can thrive in the tech industry,” she emphasized. “This is just the beginning. As Tech Edge grows, so will the number of available opportunities.”

Bahamians interested in expanding their career opportunities are encouraged to apply today and become part of The Bahamas’ digital transformation.

For more information, visit www.techedgebahamas.com for updates, success stories, and insights into the tech industry.

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Beyond the Mainsail: The Sailors of Sassie Sue and Patton Pride

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On the High Seas: Action shot of Sassie Sue racing. Photo credit: Phillip Figdore

Nassau, BAHAMAS — The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup has garnered a lot of chatter for the year, with many have sharing their strong opinions on the limited-edition Bahamas Goombay Punch cans, which highlight the six sloops competing in the 3rd Annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup.

The limited time designs was created to display the fine details and unique features of each sloop, while giving the sailors the recognition they deserve for their contribution to the country’s national sport, Sailing.

While the cans shine beautifully in the stores, at your desks at work or on your dinner table Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola products want to give the consumers a deeper look into each boat and its team.

The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup was created to amplify the sport of sailing through monetary and social support. In upholding that, captain Leander Pinder of ‘Patton Pride’ and Stefan Knowles of ‘Sassie Sue’ shed intimate details about their sloops.

How did your sloop’s name come to be?

Both men shared how the name for their sloops is rooted deeply in honoring their family. Sailing and Regattas are synonymous with family life and all members young and old, men and women can be seen participating.

Pinder: “I want to carry on my family name on Patton – my grandparents, my uncle, aunt and of course my mother.”

Knowles: “My mother’s name is Sue, and she is considered to be a sassy woman, hence the name.”

Who are the members of your sloop?

Sailors of ‘Patton Pride’: Dwight Fly Rolle, Prince Patton, Keshone Rolle, Shannon Rolle Leander, Magic Pinder.

Sailors of ‘Sassie Sue’: Stefan Knowles Captain and Owner, Vardo Turnquest Bowman, Anthony Knowles Pryman, Garret Knowles Main Sheet Man, Meko Knowles Pryman, Donnie Bastian Pryman, Kahden Huyler Pryman and Roger Fox Pryman.

What’s the history of your sloop?

Pinder: “For my love of the sport of sailing, five years ago Mr. Mark Knowles built this boat. I told him I wanted a fast boat, one that could beat the best of the best and that’s what he created.”

Knowles: “I previously sailed Whitty K for over 10 years and decided it was time to build my own C class. I had a boat in the original E class (14ft long) that my Dad built for me in 1998. The class was discontinued around 2003. Fast forward to July 2022, Sassie Sue was born”

What are some structural features that make your boat special?

Pinder: “She’s special by way of her width and depth and the slick entrance.”

Knowles: “It is built from some of the strongest, most durable and lightest wood available.”

What does the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup mean to you?

Pinder: “I think the Goombay Punch Cup is a good promotion for the Patton Pride to be known worldwide and of course I am in the tourism business and whenever I take my guests out on a tour the number one beverage, they request is Goombay Punch.”

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