Explora Journeys Introduces New Caribbean Destination Experiences For 2024 And 2025

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Sept. 23, 2024: Luxury cruise line Explora Journeys has revealed new Caribbean destination experiences for 2024 and 2025. The Explora II will reach the Caribbean in November 2024, and Explora I will follow suit in December. Guests on both vessels will be able to sail to various Caribbean destinations through March 2025, such as spots like St. John’s in Antigua and Gustavia in St. Barths and with ports of call in Belize City and Progreso in Mexico.

Travelers can enjoy the region’s vibrant landscapes, like stunning beaches, lively coral reefs, and ancient architecture, while immersing themselves in diverse cultures. True to the luxury Explora Journeys offers, these destination experiences are set to be intimate, with only a maximum of 25 guests per group for a slower and more relaxed exploration. Here’s a look at the Explora Journeys cruise line and the Caribbean destination experiences it will be offering:

A Look At Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys marked a milestone in August 2023 when the first vessel from the luxury cruise line, Explora I, set sail on her maiden voyage. Despite being one of the newer luxury cruises in the industry, Explora Journeys has been establishing itself as a top choice for cruise travelers looking for immersive experiences and unique destinations. Aside from its Caribbean and Central America tours, it also offers itineraries for the Mediterranean and Western Europe as well as the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula, showcasing its diverse offers that all kinds of guests will enjoy. The luxury cruise line also prides itself on offering a perfect blend of celebrated destinations with off-the-beaten-path ports, allowing for a deeper exploration of cultural, historical, and culinary offerings that guests can choose to extend or combine for more opportunities. 

Caribbean destination experiences

Explora Journeys’ commitment to offering curated journeys and inspiring travel opportunities is reflected in its Caribbean shore experiences for 2024 and 2025. Guests can bask in the local landscapes and culture like never before, gaining a new perspective on this vibrant region. Travelers can snorkel in Director’s Bay at Willemstad, Curaçao, marveling at the diverse marine life while learning about endangered coral reefs from an experienced marine biologist, followed by a visit to a mangrove reservoir. At Saint-Pierre, Martinique, guests can explore Martinican rum culture at Rhum Clément, where ‘rhum agricole’ originated. This includes a guided tour of the estate, its gardens and rum cellars, and a rum tasting paired with gourmet dishes. Beachside relaxation and culinary delights are in store at the five-star Rosewood Le Guanahani resort in Gustavia, St. Barths, which includes a three-course meal and snorkeling in the Caribbean sea. History buffs will enjoy the visit to the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal, which is accompanied by a lunch of regional specialties in the Hacienda Xocnaceh’s church and a Mayan purification ceremony. A flight from Chichén Itzá from Cozumel, Mexico offers a guided tour of the ancient city for a closer look at the history and architecture.

A Different Kind Of Luxury

Explora Journeys boasts top-of-the-line experiences travelers won’t easily find anywhere else, but aside from premium locations and amenities, the intimate and insightful tours offer a new take on luxury. The Caribbean destination experiences showcase the luxury cruise line’s desire to give guests a deeper look at the regions the ships will visit. Taking trips in smaller groups also offers a slower pace of travel to encourage travelers to embrace nature, architecture, and cuisine to the fullest rather than dealing with crowded ports and tourist destinations. These experiences offer more than a relaxing stay; they provide an informative glimpse at the region’s cultures and history for a greater appreciation of the Caribbean.

Belize Politician And Former Rapper Shyne Denies Knowledge of Diddy’s “Freak-Offs”

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 19, 2024: Belizean politician and former Bad Boy rapper, Moses “Shyne” Barrow, has made it clear that he had no knowledge of or involvement in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ alleged “freak-off” parties. Barrow, now Leader of the Opposition in Belize, addressed the issue during a recent press conference, following Combs’ arrest in New York City on September 16th.

Belizean politician and former Bad Boy rapper, Moses “Shyne” Barrow, has made it clear that he had no knowledge of or involvement in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ alleged “freak-off” parties.

Barrow, who was once signed to Combs’ Bad Boy Records, reflected on his relationship with the music mogul, accusing Combs of having “destroyed” his life. “At 18, I just wanted to make my mother proud and put Belize on the map. I defended him, only for him to turn against me and testify in court, which led to my imprisonment,” Barrow stated, though he did not provide specific details to support the claim.

Barrow’s comments reference his 1999 conviction for a nightclub shooting in New York, which left three people injured. While Barrow was sentenced to 10 years in prison, Combs was acquitted of all charges. Combs maintained at the time that he had no involvement in the shooting, stating, “I do not own or carry a gun.”

Since his release from prison in 2009 and subsequent deportation to Belize, Barrow has turned his focus to politics.

Barrow emphasized that his relationship with Combs was never personal. “We never vacationed together or had any close, brotherly bond. He ruined my life, but I forgave him and moved on. I pursued investments for Belize’s education system, knowing he had the resources to contribute,” Barrow explained.

FLASHBACK: Sean “Puffy” Combs with rapper “Shine”(Jamal Barrow) at the 1998 Grammy Awards, NYC, February 25, 1998. (Photo by Arnaldo Magnani)

When asked by a reporter whether he had any knowledge of or participation in Combs’ alleged “freak-off” events, Barrow firmly denied any involvement. “I had nothing to do with Sean Combs’ personal life; our dealings were strictly professional,” he responded.

Combs is currently facing charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and other offenses related to the alleged events. According to the federal indictment, victims were reportedly coerced into participating in the “freak-offs” using drugs, and some instances were allegedly captured on camera without consent.

Combs has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody at the Brooklyn Detention Center as he awaits trial.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org.

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Suriname and Belize Cited By U.S. For Lack of Progress On Fiscal Transparency

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 18, 2024: Belize and Suriname have been singled out by the U.S. Department of State for failing to make significant progress towards fiscal transparency, according to the recently released 2024 Fiscal Transparency Report. These two nations are the only Caribbean countries that have not made progress in meeting the minimum fiscal transparency standards, a requirement assessed annually by the Department of State, the report said.

The report evaluates governments identified in the 2014 Fiscal Transparency Report to assess their compliance with transparency standards. These include public disclosure of national budget documentation and adherence to clear criteria for contracting and licensing in natural resource extraction.

While countries like The Bahamas, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago were praised for meeting the transparency requirements, Belize and Suriname were noted for their shortcomings.

Belize’s Challenges
Belize made strides by publicly releasing its enacted budget, end-of-year report, and debt obligations. The country also ensured that budget information was reliable, with actual revenues and expenditures aligning with the budget. However, the government failed to publish its executive budget proposal within a reasonable time, and while audit institutions were independent, audit reports were not made available promptly.

To improve, Belize must:

Publish its executive budget proposal within a reasonable period.
Ensure timely public release of audit reports by its supreme audit institution.

Suriname’s Shortcomings
Suriname made some budget documents accessible, including the executive budget proposal and information on debt obligations. However, the government failed to make its end-of-year report publicly available and did not disclose off-budget accounts, impacting the overall fiscal transparency. Additionally, the country continued to classify loans as revenue, and in the mining sector, the government did not follow its own procedures for awarding natural resource contracts.

Key recommendations for Suriname include:

Publishing the end-of-year report within a reasonable period.
Eliminating or auditing off-budget accounts.
Adhering to natural resource extraction laws and making contract details publicly available.
Both nations must address these deficiencies to meet international standards and improve transparency.

Caribbean Travel – These Beaches Are Really In Haiti

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY. Haiti, a Caribbean gem often overshadowed by its tumultuous history, boasts a stunning coastline adorned with pristine beaches that rival the most renowned tropical destinations. With crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and lush palm-fringed shores, Haiti’s beaches offer a serene escape for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Here are 6 beautiful beaches in Haiti, you should know:

1: Cormier Plage

This beach is located in the north of Haiti, about a15 minutes’ drive from the city center of Cap-Haitian and off of the Cormier Plage Resort. Guests staying in the hotel have exclusive access to the beachfront, a stretch of sand set in a prime location that allows visitors to experience the country’s top cultural site – the Citadelle Laferrière.


2: Port-Salut

Port-Salut is a relaxing beach destination located at the far south-west corner of the country and is one of the hidden secrets of Haiti. It is home to a variety of local businesses offering entertainment for beach-goers, local cuisine as well as chic boutique and luxurious hotels right off of the coast and is the home town of former President Aristide.


3: Ils-a-Rat Beach

The Ile à Rats beach is located on a small island off the northern coast of Haiti. It was discovered by none other than Christopher Columbus, and according to some, used it to retreat with his local lover. To get here you have to charter a boat in Labadie and it takesabout forty minutes to get there but it’s well worth it. There are colorful coral reefs and its also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

4: Chouchou Bay Beach

This is one of the beautiful beaches, located in northern Haiti, within driving distance of Cap-Haïtien. It is surrounded by green, plush mountains which adorn the landscape surrounding the oceanfront. Chouchou Bay Beach provides a quieter space and is also a good place to dive or snorkel.

5: Kyona Beach

This beach is part of a hotel and is located north of the Haitian capital, Port-Au-Prince – and an hour north in Ouest, Haiti, and is visited by many for its crystal clean waters.

6: Labadee Beach

This is a port located on the northern coast of Haiti within the arrondissement of Cap-Haïtien in the Nord department. It is a private resort leased to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., for the exclusive use of passengers of its three cruise lines: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara Club Cruises, until 2050. The boats are docked offshore, and the passengers are tendered to the coast where they find a fine resort that includes Water Sports, a water park, an Haitian market and some dance performances by local artists. This beach resort features pristine beaches, coral reefs and lagoon-like bays surrounded by forested mountains. The resort is guarded by a private security force.

Martinique Mayor Calls For Dialogue Amid Escalating Violence

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 18, 2024: The Mayor of Fort-de-France, Didier Laguerre, has called for urgent dialogue and consultation in response to escalating urban violence affecting parts of the Martinique city. In a press release and at a press conference held today, Mayor Laguerre expressed his deep concern over the unrest, emphasizing that action must be taken “in the best interests of the Martinicans.”

An image taken from an AFP video released on September 17, 2024 shows a car burning in a street of Fort-de-France in the French Caribbean island of Martinique following a night of riots amid protests over the high cost of living. (Photo by THOMAS THURAR/AFP via Getty Images)

The neighborhoods of Sainte-Thérèse and Dillon have been particularly affected, with significant violence and damage reported. Fort-de-France and nearby Le Lamentin experienced clashes, thefts, and fires overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday, with hooded youths confronting law enforcement. In Sainte-Thérèse, fires erupted near the local church, and in Dillon, a McDonald’s restaurant was extensively damaged by flames, prompting firefighter intervention around 1:49 a.m.

An image taken from an AFP video released on September 17, 2024 shows Rodrigue Petitot, leader of the RPPRAC (Union for the protection of African-Carribean people and ressources) answering questions at a road blockage set as part of protests over the high cost of living in Fort-de-France in the French Caribbean island of Martinique. (Photo by THOMAS THURAR/AFP via Getty Images)

The unrest appears to stem from an incident on September 11th at Carrefour Dillon, where peaceful protests against the rising cost of living turned violent after a reported crackdown by law enforcement. The RPPRAC, an organization representing protesters, condemned what they described as “police repression” and called for calm while urging the prefect to halt the “spiral of violence.”

“Children and elderly people who came to peacefully protest were brutally repressed,” the RPPRAC stated in an open letter today, which also reiterated their demands for public negotiations and price alignments with mainland France. Gladys Rogers, treasurer of the RPPRAC, acknowledged that while their calls for calm have been effective, the growing anger among the population is becoming harder to control.

The violence has led to widespread looting in Fort-de-France and Le Lamentin. Stores, including Cash Converters in downtown Fort-de-France and several businesses in the Jambette area, were broken into and robbed. The Fort-de-France municipal police headquarters were also targeted, and numerous roadblocks were erected, disrupting traffic in key areas like the Jeanne d’Arc roundabout. Officials in the French Caribbean island of Martinique say on September 17, 2024 at least six police officers were injured by gunfire during violent protests.

Despite the growing unrest, Mayor Laguerre continues to appeal for calm and stresses the need for immediate dialogue to resolve the tensions. “We must act swiftly to protect the safety and well-being of all Martinicans,” he said.

Wärtsilä and Aqualectra partner to support Curaçao’s decarbonisation with new power plant to balance renewables

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News Americas, WILLEMSTAD, Curaçao, Sept. 18, 2024: Technology group Wärtsilä has again been contracted by Aqualectra, Curaҫao’s government owned utilities company, to provide Engineering, Procurement and Construction in support of the country’s decarbonisation program. This latest order is for a new 38.4 MW power plant that will be capable of providing efficient grid balancing as the level of renewable energy in the system continues to increase. The order was booked by Wärtsilä in Q3 2024.

Agreement signing – Front: Mathias West, CFO Neysa Isenia, Tganni Louisy. Back: Minister Charles Cooper, Chairman of the Board Renny Oehlers, Joseph Everon, and Rudolf Garmes.

The new Salu Power Plant is being supplied on a full engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) basis. Initially, the plant will provide baseload power but will be later utilised in a grid balancing role as part of the utility’s decarbonisation focus. It will operate with four Wärtsilä 20V32 engines and will immediately become one of Aqualectra’s most fuel-efficient power plants.

Earlier this year, Aqualectra placed an order with Wärtsilä for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), as well as Wärtsilä’s GEMS Digital Energy Platform. The combined system will enable the expansion of renewable energy capacity, representing an important step towards a sustainable energy future for the island.

“Aqualectra immensely values the continued partnership with Wärtsilä and their availability to hold discussions, exchange and build bridges so that, on this occasion, we could again sign a significant agreement for the island and people of Curaçao,” says Mrs. Neysa Isenia, CFO at Aqualectra.

The combination of Wärtsilä’s BESS and GEMS solutions, supported by the new power plant, will provide grid stability and reliability, reduce unserved energy, and help mitigate the risk of brownouts and blackouts. In addition, the Wärtsilä solutions will allow Aqualectra to expand their decarbonisation vision while smoothing the intermittency of renewables.

“We have worked closely with Aqualectra in developing their long-term roadmap,” explains Risto Paldanius, Vice President, Americas at Wärtsilä Energy. “This involved a detailed analysis and modelling of their system, as well as verifying their own modelling. Aqualectra’s strategic objective is to provide the community with affordable, sustainable, and reliable electricity. Wärtsilä’s solutions will support all of these objectives through reducing the cost of generation, enabling the integration of renewables, while providing high reliability.”

Delivery of the Wärtsilä equipment and construction of the power plant is being carried out on a fast-track basis, and the plant is expected to be fully operational by Q4 2025.

Aqualectra produces and distributes water and electricity to over 80,000 households and companies on Curaҫao Island. The company is an existing and valued Wärtsilä customer with three Wärtsilä engine power plants operating with a combined total of 16 Wärtsilä engines.

All Wärtsilä releases are available at www.wartsila.com/media/news-releases and at news.cision.com/wartsila-corporation where also the images can be downloaded. Use of the image(s) is allowed only in connection with the contents of this press release. Wärtsilä images are available at www.wartsila.com/media/image-bank.

Wärtsilä Energy in brief
Wärtsilä Energy is at the forefront of the transition towards a 100% renewable energy future. We help our customers and the power sector to accelerate their decarbonisation journeys through our market-leading technologies and power system expertise. Our solutions include flexible engine power plants, energy storage and optimisation technology, and services for the whole lifecycle of our installations. Our engines are future-proof and can run on sustainable fuels. Our track record comprises 79 GW of power plant capacity, of which 18 GW are under service agreements, and over 125 energy storage systems, in 180 countries around the world.
www.wartsila.com/energy

Wärtsilä in brief
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. We emphasise innovation in sustainable technology and services to help our customers continuously improve environmental and economic performance. Our dedicated and passionate team of 17,800 professionals in more than 280 locations in 79 countries shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. In 2023, Wärtsilä’s net sales totalled EUR 6.0 billion. Wärtsilä is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
www.wartsila.com

Aqualectra
Aqualectra is Curacao’s government-owned utility company. It produces and distributes water and electricity to over 80,000 households and companies. Aqualectra employs 615 dedicated women and men who provide the framework for delivering quality products and services to our customers.
www.aqualectra.com

Jamaican Reggae Boyz Lembikisa Joins Yverdon Sport On Loan

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News Americas, New York, NY, Tues. September 17, 2024: Yverdon Sport has Jamaican international and Reggae Boyz Dexter Lembikisa from Wolverhampton Wanderers for the 2024/25 season. The 20-year-old right-back is the final addition to Alessandro Mangiarratti’s squad as the team prepares to compete in the Swiss Super League.

Reggae Boyz defender Dexter Lembikisa will suit up for club Yverdon Sport in the Swiss Super League for the 2024/25 season

Lembikisa, who has earned 10 caps for Jamaica, joins Yverdon Sport after spending last season on loan with Scotland’s Heart of Midlothian, where he played nine matches and scored one goal. A product of Wolverhampton’s academy, Lembikisa has made 52 appearances and scored three goals for the U21 side.

Known for his athleticism and aggressive playing style, Lembikisa expressed his enthusiasm for joining Yverdon Sport: “I come here with the desire to continue my development, gain experience, and most importantly, win. I love winning! On the field, I enjoy one-on-ones and taking on the opponent.”

Lembikisa will train with the squad for the first time on Tuesday and is eligible to play in this weekend’s match against Lausanne-Sport. He also reunites with former teammate Christian Marques, with whom he previously played in England.

Top 6 All-Inclusive Resorts In Aruba You Should Know

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 17, 2024: Aruba is home to some of the Caribbean’s top all-inclusive resorts, making it easy to plan and budget your vacation. Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking a romantic adult-only getaway, these resorts offer luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, exciting activities, and stunning beaches. Here are six all-inclusive resorts in Aruba you should know about.

1: Barceló Aruba

Situated in the heart of Aruba’s high-rise district, Barceló Aruba boasts 373 rooms with balconies or terraces offering ocean or garden views. This family-friendly resort features seven restaurants, a pool bar, a lobby bar, and is conveniently located near the airport and the island’s vibrant nightlife.
Included with the rate: Unlimited meals, snacks, drinks, non-motorized water sports, daily activities, nightly entertainment, and a supervised children’s club.

2: Bucuti & Tara

Bucuti & Tara may not be a traditional all-inclusive resort, but its unique dining plan makes it stand out. Guests can enjoy a full daily breakfast and opt into the “Dine Around Plan” to explore some of Aruba’s top restaurants. The adults-only, carbon-neutral resort is located on one of the world’s best beaches and offers a peaceful, eco-friendly retreat.
Included with the rate: Daily breakfast, optional lunch and dinner vouchers, wellness classes, and live music.

3: Divi Aruba All Inclusive

Located on Eagle Beach, Divi Aruba offers a laid-back atmosphere with access to one of the world’s top beaches. The resort features numerous dining options and activities, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure. Its family-friendly vibe includes a children’s club and access to amenities at both Divi and Tamarijn Aruba resorts.
Included with the rate: Unlimited food, drinks, beach access, pools, yoga, Zumba, e-bike tours, and a supervised children’s club.

4: Hotel Riu Palace Aruba

This adults-only resort on Palm Beach is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. With direct beach access, a spa, gym, and various water activities, it’s an all-inclusive experience with plenty to do. The property also offers themed parties and nightly entertainment, including a casino and live shows.
Included with the rate: Unlimited dining, drinks, 24-hour room service, minibar, and access to “Riu Party” events.

5: Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa

If peace and wellness are your priorities, Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa offers a serene, intimate experience. This boutique resort is known for its exceptional spa and wellness programs, including complimentary yoga and pilates. The all-inclusive plan is optional, with on-site dining featuring vegan options and a credit for off-site dining after four nights.
Included with the rate: Daily meals, premium open bar, smoothies, and wellness classes.

6: Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort

Located in downtown Oranjestad, Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort offers a unique blend of city life and island luxury. While it’s not on Aruba’s famous beaches, the resort provides access to a private island where guests can enjoy encounters with flamingos. The all-inclusive package includes dining, beverages, spa discounts, and access to the resort’s private water taxi.
Included with the rate: All daily meals, drinks, non-motorized water sports, and spa discounts.

For more details on Aruba, visit Aruba.com.

Caribbean Nations Named Major Drug Transit Countries for 2025

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 17, 2024: Several Caribbean nations, including The Bahamas, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica, have been designated by U.S. President Joe Biden as Major Drug Transit or Major Illicit Drug Producing Countries for Fiscal Year 2025. This designation was outlined in a memorandum issued by the President to the U.S. State Department on September 15th.

FLASHBACK – A Haitian Coast Guard officer, on a Port-au-Prince dock, guards cocaine and marijuana confiscated. The drugs were confiscated in the southeastern port of Jacmel from a boat that arrived from Colombia. (Photo credit: THONY BELIZAIRE/AFP via Getty Images)

The memorandum highlights that these countries play a significant role as direct sources of precursor chemicals used in the production of drugs that have a considerable impact on the United States.

Other nations included in this list are Afghanistan, Bolivia, Burma, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela.

President Biden clarified that a country’s presence on this list does not necessarily reflect its government’s efforts or level of cooperation with the U.S. in countering drug trafficking. Instead, the inclusion stems from geographic, commercial, and economic factors that allow drug transit or production, even in cases where governments have implemented strong narcotics control and law enforcement measures.

Additionally, Biden named Bolivia, Burma, and Venezuela as countries that have failed demonstrably in the past 12 months to meet their obligations under international counternarcotics agreements.

Bahamas Welcomes $55 Million Investment from Saudi Fund for Development

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 16, 2024: The Bahamas government has celebrated the signing of a US$55 million agreement with the Saudi Fund for Development, which they say will significantly enhance the socio-economic development of Eleuthera, one of the country’s Family Islands and one of the homes of award-winning Bahamas-roots rocker, Lenny Kravitz.

Bahamas, Eleuthera Island, district of Governor’s Harbour (Central Eleuthera).

At the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Phillip Davis hailed the investment as a transformative step for the island, particularly through the long-awaited upgrade of the North Eleuthera International Airport. “This partnership with the Saudi Fund for Development marks a turning point for Eleuthera and its people,” Davis said. “For years, there has been talk about upgrading the airport, and today, we are moving from talk to action.”

The $55 million investment from Saudi will unlock Eleuthera’s potential, improving infrastructure, increasing tourism, and creating new job opportunities. “By enhancing the airport’s capacity to handle more visitors, we are directly supporting the tourism sector, which is at the heart of Eleuthera’s economy,” Davis added. “This investment will help bring in more international flights, increase connectivity to the rest of The Bahamas, and open up new avenues for local entrepreneurs.”

The Saudi Funds for Eleuthera Development’s contribution comes with a favorable interest rate of just 2.5 percent, ensuring the sustainability and financial viability of the project. For the people of Eleuthera, the airport upgrade represents progress and promises significant improvements in daily life, including better travel options, increased economic activity, and expanded employment prospects.

Prime Minister Davis emphasized that the project is part of a broader national plan to modernize infrastructure across the Family Islands. Already, construction has begun on a new airport in Cat Island, with plans for 14 additional airport developments nationwide. “This is about building for today and tomorrow,” Davis noted, “ensuring that our islands have the infrastructure to support growth and prosperity for generations to come.”

However, with rapid development comes challenges. Davis acknowledged that the rise in economic activity and population growth in Eleuthera has put pressure on utilities, particularly electricity and water services. “No Bahamian should have to live without reliable water and electricity, not in 2024,” he stated, addressing recent concerns over power and water shortages.

To tackle the issue, Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) has commissioned two long-overdue generators, each capable of producing 2.5 megawatts, with one already operational. The second is expected to be running by the end of the week, nearly doubling Harbour Island’s power generation capacity and significantly reducing the likelihood of load shedding. Davis pledged that by the end of September, Eleuthera would no longer experience power shortages.

In addition, over US$7 million in capital works for water infrastructure is underway to address Eleuthera’s growing needs. “This government isn’t interested in quick fixes or political stunts,” Davis said. “We are committed to providing long-term solutions.”

The partnership with the Saudi Fund for Development marks a crucial milestone in Eleuthera’s growth, setting the stage for sustained progress and ensuring that the people of Eleuthera can fully benefit from the island’s rapid development.

More Bahamas News.