Bahamas News
Kakona Development Poses Existential Threat to National Parks in South Abaco
Abaco, Bahamas, October 24, 2024 – The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) categorically opposes the proposed Kakona Resort Development in South Abaco by SALDCO Ltd. (the Developer), which represents an existential threat to the ecological integrity and future of two Bahamian national parks: Abaco National Park and the Cross Harbour Protected Area. As it stands, this development would not only endanger the delicate balance of these protected areas but also undermine decades of conservation work, risking irreversible damage to native wildlife and ecosystems.
With a development footprint spanning three large areas, including plans for a 225-slip marina, 400 residential units, and 90 hotel keys, the Kakona Development would alter and disrupt critical habitats that these national parks were established to protect. The BNT and its partners have been dedicated to advancing the conservation of these areas for decades, working to ensure the protection of both terrestrial and marine ecosystems that are vital to the biodiversity of South Abaco.
Abaco National Park, home to the northernmost population of the Bahama Parrot, is a globally significant conservation area. For over 30 years, the BNT has been actively managing invasive species that threaten this iconic, ground-nesting bird. The increased human activity, noise, and waste associated with this development will attract feral species like cats and raccoons, which could undo decades of conservation work and potentially lead to the extinction of the Bahama Parrot in Abaco. Furthermore, essential parrot feeding grounds outside the park boundaries would be negatively impacted by the project, compromising the parrot’s survival.
In addition to being vital to the well-being of the Bahama Parrot, the Abaco National Park also provides a refuge for other endemic birds, including the endangered Bahama Warbler, the endangered Bahama Swallow, and the Bahama Yellowthroat. The habitats these birds
depend on have already been fragmented by Hurricane Dorian and can face further collapse due to this development. The cumulative impacts of habitat loss and human disturbance in Abaco National Park present significant threats to the biodiversity of the region and heighten the risks posed by climate change.
Cross Harbour, another invaluable protected area, is equally at risk. The waters and mangroves of Cross Harbour serve as nursery grounds for a range of species critical to Bahamian fisheries, including snappers, groupers, and queen conch. It is also home to the pre-spawning site for bonefish, a cornerstone species for the local recreational fishing industry, which generates millions in economic benefits each year. Increased marine traffic, habitat degradation, and potential overuse would compromise the delicate balance of this marine ecosystem, threatening livelihoods and local industries reliant on these resources.
The BNT is alarmed by the lack of meaningful consultation with our organization by the Developer; despite the proximity of the project to the Abaco National Park, and the fact that the project proposes the construction and modification of roads through the park. The Developer’s decision to bypass critical engagement with the BNT undermines our role as the national park managers of The Bahamas. Moreover, the public consultation process has been marred by accessibility barriers, including the requirement for individuals to provide personal information to access the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which limits meaningful public participation.
Our last engagement with the Developer took place a few years ago in a meeting to discuss a version of the project’s proposal. After that meeting, the Developer began claiming the BNT had endorsed the proposal. We immediately clarified that our discussion did not, in any way, imply endorsement of the project.
The BNT reiterates that the Kakona Development, as it stands, represents overdevelopment that far outweighs any short-term economic benefits it may offer. The ecological and socio-economic costs of proceeding with this project would be devastating, with long-term impacts that could irreparably damage these protected areas and the local communities that rely on them.
We urge the government and the public to recognize the value of Abaco National Park and the Cross Harbour protected area awaiting assignment to a Protected Area Management Agency, and the essential services they provide for Bahamian biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable local economies. The BNT is prepared to work alongside all stakeholders to identify alternative approaches to development that balance economic goals with the critical need to protect the natural resources that are the lifeblood of The Bahamas.
The Environmental Impact Assessment Report can be viewed/downloaded at the following link: https://environmental.kakona.com/environmental-impact-assessment/
Let us stand together in defense of our parks, our wildlife, and our future.
To learn more about the role the BNT plays in managing terrestrial and marine national parks, protecting species that inhabit them, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
Photo Caption: Aerial photo showing Abaco National Park and Cross Harbour Protected Area in South Abaco
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.
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