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FIRST TEAM OF RBDF TROOPS DEPLOY TO HAITI FOR MULTINATIONAL SECURITY SUPPORT MISSION

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Nassau, Bahamas, Defence Headquarters 18 OCT. 2024 –In a strong show of regional solidarity, Prime Minister The Honourable Philip Davis, accompanied by senior government officials, attended the official send-off of Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) officers set to be deployed to Haiti. This mission is part of a wider regional initiative aimed at stabilizing Haiti, a nation still grappling with significant unrest.

Almost 30 years after the Bahamas first answered the call to support Haiti—when 141 Defence Force officers participated in a United Nations peacekeeping operation between 1994 and 1996—the Bahamas has once again committed to assisting. A six-member advance team from the RBDF will be joining the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM), an effort spearheaded by CARICOM in partnership with international allies such as Kenya, Jamaica, and Belize. This coordinated mission will provide critical support to help restore peace and stability in Haiti.

Prime Minister Davis, who also served as Chair of CARICOM in 2023, was joined by Acting Minister of National Security Leon Lundy, Minister of Education Glenys Hanna Martin, Deputy Commander Defence Force (DCDF) Captain Shonedel Pinder, and members of the RBDF Executive Command. Former Commander Defence Force, Commodore Clifford Scavella, who led the initial Bahamian peacekeeping mission in Haiti three decades ago, was also present, adding a historical resonance to the occasion.

This RBDF deployment is notable not only for its mission but also for the groundbreaking inclusion of the first-ever female RBDF officer to be deployed on an international mission, a milestone moment that reflects The Bahamas’ commitment to gender equality and leadership within its armed forces. The team’s expertise spans several areas crucial to the mission’s success, including Conduct & Discipline, Command Headquarters Assistance, Operations, and Administration.

The team’s mission, shaped by on-the-ground needs, will focus on several key areas:

  • Maritime Patrols: Conducting coordinated patrols to deter threats to maritime security within Haitian territorial waters.
  • Port Security: Securing strategic Haitian ports to facilitate humanitarian aid, promote economic development, and bolster political stability.
  • Preventing Illegal Migration: Implementing measures to curb illegal migration, protect Haitian citizens, and prevent human trafficking and unsafe sea journeys.
  • Countering Illicit Trafficking: Disrupting narcotics, weapons, and contraband trafficking to safeguard regional security.
  • Intelligence Cooperation: Collaborating closely with the CARICOM Joint Task Force and international partners to share intelligence and coordinate resources for a more effective mission response.
  • Regional Security: Contributing to the overall safety of the Caribbean by addressing destabilizing illicit activities.
  • Supporting Political Stability: Creating a secure environment to enable peaceful political processes, aligning with broader efforts to restore Haiti’s political stability.

The RBDF personnel will serve for six months in Haiti, a challenging but necessary deployment aimed at making a significant impact on the region’s security. Their participation not only enhances The Bahamas’ role in regional security but also supports broader CARICOM-led efforts.

Although Prime Minister Davis did not make any official remarks at the send-off, his presence underscored the Bahamian government’s dedication to supporting regional security and promoting peace in the Caribbean. The commitment to this mission reflects the broader leadership of The Bahamas in supporting its neighbors in times of need.

The send-off was also attended by representatives of the RBDF Chaplaincy Office and Family Support organization, acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by the deployed officers and their families. For these families, this mission brings both the weight of separation and the pride of knowing their loved ones are contributing to a greater cause.

This deployment serves as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Bahamian people and reinforces The Bahamas’ longstanding tradition of offering a helping hand to its neighbors in times of crisis.

Under Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond E. King’s leadership, the Defence Force ensures personnel are equipped, trained, and prepared for maritime security, disaster relief, and peacekeeping. This extends to domestic and regional operations, fulfilling our responsibilities with professionalism and preparedness.

 

Written by CPO A Rahming, Able Seaman Michael Turner

Photos by Able Seaman Able Seaman Macmillan Estilien

 

Bahamas News

Monument Beverage Co. Caribbean Wines & Spirits Uniquely Bahamian Newest Product

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NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wines and spirits distributor is proud to announce the launch of Monument Beverage Co., its newest 100% locally produced ready-to-drink alcoholic cocktail.

Monument, “Made to Celebrate”, perfectly encapsulates everything the brand represents. Created and distributed by CWS, Monument is inspired by culture, crafted with excellence and bursting with innovation.

This unique beverage celebrates island living with three bold flavors, Ginger Lime, Peach Passion and Melon Fizz. All of which can be enjoyed at an ABV of five-point-two percent.

The brand’s creativity really shines through each can’s packaging. Bold colored stripes, cherished native flora and fauna and of course, national monuments can all be found on each can.

The beverage’s two year plus development is a testament to CWS’ dedication to quality and innovation. Countless hours of tastings, reformulations, focus groups and package design reviews all paid off with the creation of Monument.

Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Chief Commercial Officer of Caribbean Wines & Spirits and Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, shared what this authentically Bahamian made product launch means for the company.

“When we were conceptualizing Monument, we wanted to create a product that not only tasted like The Bahamas but would be an ode to the nation as well. With those two thoughts in mind, I, along with a team of experts, created three incredible flavors we believe really connect with and celebrate the essence of island living,” she said.

“Additionally, being that Monument is the first product to be 100% manufactured by Caribbean Wines & Spirits, we really wanted to ensure that both the flavors and packaging honored our rich heritage. On each of the cans, you can find various monuments such as the Nassau Public Library in New Providence, the Garden of the Grove in Grand Bahama and the Hatchet Bay Silos in Eleuthera; all of which pay homage to our diverse Bahamian heritage.” Wells-Lisgaris concluded.”

The historic monuments found throughout our islands are more than places we pass every day; they are reminders of who we are, where we’ve come from and the stories that connect us as Bahamians.

Monument is perfectly formulated with quality ingredients, and each can celebrates a collection of these cultural icons from across The Bahamas.

Whether chilling solo beachside, gathered around a family table or backyard a grill with friends, make Monument your sip of choice.  Monument is made to celebrate, visit  www.cwsbahamas.com today for more details.

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Bahamas News

Lady Kayla Crowned Goombay Punch Cup Sailing Champion of 2025/2026

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L–R: Joss Knowles, Kianno Hutchinson, Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager at Caribbean Bottling Company and Dallas Knowles receiving a donation on behalf of the Exuma Sailing Club at the Long Island Regatta awards ceremony.

NASSAU, Bahamas —– Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to crown Lady Kayla of Exuma as this year’s annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup winner.

CBC created the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup to further the advancement of sailing and Bahamian culture through monetary and social support. The competition judges the skipper’s performance across three regattas, The Best of the Best, the National Family Island and Long Island Regattas.

The winning sloop led by Kianno Hutchinson and Joss Knowles showcased their skillmanship in the E-Class category across each round of competition. In addition to winning the trophy, the skippers were awarded a $5,000 donation, an $8,000 stipend to the junior sailing club of their island and a limited-edition Lady Kayla Bahamas Goombay Punch commemorative can, which will be released soon.

Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director of CBC shared the significance behind The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup.

“The Bahamas Goombay Punch is more than a beloved local brand; it’s a vibrant part of our cultural fabric. Just like sailing, our national sport, it carries a rich legacy that spans generations. Recognizing this shared history, we’re proud to support initiatives that celebrate and advance Bahamian culture,” he said.

Hutchinson and Knowles shared what this win meant for them.

“I felt super proud when I realized we won. I am grateful and thankful to God, for good coaches and Joss. It was really an honor winning the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup,” Hutchinson expressed.

“I am very honored to have been able to compete in the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup, I think it is a great concept and idea for a competition and really adds a new motive throughout the regattas. The whole championship was super competitive, and every single race was a fight. Alvington McKenzie was extremely competitive and had us until the Long Island regatta, which made it a very fun and tough competition. Very excited to have been the winner of a super close championship,” Knowles revealed.

Lady Kayla’s owner, Dallas Knowles, shared the team’s winning strategy.

“In sailing consistency is key and our guys in Lady Kayla are some of the best in the business at staying near the top.  In the end, that was enough to secure their first Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup win. We are so proud of Joss and Kianno for what they have done in Lady Kayla.  Thank you to Caribbean Bottling Company for such an amazing and forward-thinking initiative,” Knowles shared.

The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup is proud to continue its impact on sailing and community building through clean and fair competition.

For more updates on the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup and Caribbean Bottling Company visit the website www.cbcbahamas.com today.

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Bahamas News

Caribbean Bottling Supports the 27th Basketball Smiles Week  

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NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.

Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.

The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.

Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.

Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.

“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.

Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.

“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.

CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.

For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.

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