03312026 BUSINESS

Entire Bahamas set to gain $65m water security boost

UN’s Green Climate Fund approves $37.5m grant for upgrades

Targets ‘urgent transformation’ of water sector climate resilience

Water Corp: Seven-year project ‘critical’ to ‘financial sustainability’

BY NEIL HARTNELL

Business Editor

THE entire Bahamian population

will benefit from a $65.2m project that is targeting “a transformation in the country’s water security” against climate change perils after major international donors approved the necessary funding at the weekend.

The Green Climate Fund (GCF), which was established to provide developing countries with financing for climate change adaptation and mitigation, is set to provide The Bahamas with some $50m - more than $37m of which is grant funding - for an initiative that aims to both protect this nation’s “vulnerable freshwater resources” and modernise critical infrastructure against threats such as sea level rise, global warming

Iran war may ‘significantly

and more frequent and devastating hurricanes.

The grant funding, which will account for almost half the monies needed by the ‘Climate resilience of the water sector in The Bahamas’ project, is especially significant given that it represents one of the few occasions this nation has been able to access such financing sources. The Bahamas, because of its relatively high per capita income and other economic indicators, has frequently been unable to access grants - where typically the money does not have to be repaid - because it is viewed as a developed state.

Petroleum retailers warn: ‘Nothing is going to be cheap’

Besides the grant, the Green Climate Fund is also providing The Bahamas with a $12.546m “concessional loan” - signalling that the interest rate and repayment terms are more generous than a commercial credit facility. The balance of

erode’ Bahamian growth

BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor

nhartnell@ tribunemedia.net

THE Central Bank yesterday warned

The Bahamas’ 2026 economic growth prospects may “significantly erode” if the Middle East war becomes protracted although it reassured that this nation’s $2.898bn foreign currency reserves “provide a meaningful cushion” for increasingly expensive fuel imports.

The banking regulator, in its report on February 2026’s economic developments, warned that - while The Bahamas’ economic outlook remains “positive” - risks related to inflationary pressures stemming from increased global oil and fuel prices have increased due to the fall-out from the US and Israeli assault on Iran.

However, it said electricity costs - apart from Grand Bahama - should “stabilise” in the short-term due to Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) move to hedge, or lock-in, the price of two million barrels of oil at an all-in cost of $70 per barrel.

The consequences of the Middle East conflict are now set to impact the Bahamian economy and people, with petroleum retailers forecasting that gasoline prices are set to jump above $6.50 per gallon as early as today as the oil price effect feeds through the supply chain to reach this nation (see other article on Page 1B).

Retailers forecast that gasoline prices are likely to rise by $1.02 per gallon due to the increased cost of imported fuel shipments, while diesel is expected to increase by $1.59 per gallon.The latter would take diesel prices to around $7 per gallon on New Providence, immediately negatively impacting transportation businesses such as taxis, livery drivers

financing for the project, which has been almost seven years in development after first being conceived in June 2019, is set to come from a $12.546m Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) loan and $2.602m “in-kind contribution” from the Water & Sewerage Corporation, Robert Deal, the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s general manager, and his staff, in response to Tribune Business inquiries, yesterday said all Bahamians and residents will benefit from the initiative regardless of whether they are customers of the

New Rosewood Exuma fight over ‘secret permit carve out’

BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

THE $200m Rosewood Exuma project’s leading opponent is accusing its rival developer of using environmental approvals, granted for limited land preparation studies, as ”cover” to begin the construction of roads and

other major infrastructure on Big Sampson Cay. Jeffrey Clark, chief financial officer for the neighbouring Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club, alleged in a March 27, 2026, affidavit that the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection’s (DEPP) decision to grant Miami-based Yntegra Group certificates of environmental clearance (CEC) to conduct

Judge boosts FTX liquidators over West Bay property’s sale

BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

FTX’s Bahamian liquidators have been boosted in their quest to maximise real estate recoveries for creditors after a Supreme Court judge ruled they and others have “strong prospects of success” in defeating a claim that so far has blocked the sale of a high-end West Bay Street property.

Acting justice Gail Lockhart-Charles KC, in a March 13, 2026, verdict ruled that a UK investor’s claim to have an ownership interest in the 5.295-acre Ocean Terrace property, located east of Caves Village, has “a serious hurdle to overcome” including the “formidable” defence afforded by the Limitation Act as their action was filed some six years after the deadline for doing so had expired.

Ocean Terrace is among the near-40 high-end Bahamian

Gasoline forecast to jump over $6.50 per gallon, diesel to near-$7 Dealer: ‘How can the country survive with 30% fuel cost increase?’ Opposition blasts Gov’t over inaction on VAT fuel cap proposal

BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

PETROLEUM retailers

yesterday warned that soaring fuel prices are expected to drive goods and services price increases across The Bahamas, as one asserted “nothing is going to be cheap” with gasoline forecast to climb above $6.50 per gallon.

Peter Roker, owner of Roker’s Gas Station, said gasoline prices are projected to rise by $1.02 per gallon, while diesel is expected to increase by $1.59 per gallon — sharp jumps he said could have a ripple effect throughout the economy. Current pump prices already range widely across New Providence, with gasoline listed at $5.32 per gallon at Esso, $5.53 at Rubis, $5.77 at Shell, and $5.75 at Shell Marathon

AutoServ. Diesel at the latter is priced around $5.45.

“I am afraid. I’m deeply concerned, because we don’t know where this is going,” Mr Roker said, pointing to increases he estimated at roughly 20 percent for gasoline and as much as 30 percent for diesel. He warned that while motorists may attempt to adjust their personal consumption, industries that depend heavily on diesel - including trucking, construction and heavy equipment - have far less flexibility.

“A dump truck can’t do that. They use diesel, and that’s definitely going to have a very, in my opinion, grave effect,” said Mr Roker. “It’s going to result in higher prices. Almost everything - nothing is going to be cheap.”

He said the scale of the diesel increase is

geotechnical studies for its development, and “temporary housing” for the required workforce, have “secretly carved out” portions of the project from public scrutiny and consultation. He is claiming that CEC approval relating to these studies, an extension for which was granted by DEPP on October 8, 2024, was only just disclosed on March 23, 2026, as part of Turtlegrass’s Judicial Review challenge that is seeking to overturn the main permit granted for the whole of the Rosewood Exuma development. As a result, Mr Clark and his principal, Bob Coughlin, are arguing that this situation is another reason why the Supreme Court should issue an injunction to halt all work by Yntegra. However, sources close to the Miami-based developer, speaking on condition of anonymity, yesterday described the allegations that it is starting work on the project’s roads and other key civil infrastructure as “garbage”. This newspaper was shown photo comparisons between site clearance work that took place in March 2025 and now, with one contact asserting: “They are clearing the exact same spot that was there before. It is purely geotechnical work.”

properties that the liquidators for FTX Digital Markets, the collapsed crypto currency exchange’s local subsidiary, have been seeking to sell in a bid to recover and return assets to former clients and creditors. It was acquired for $17.435m by FTX Property Holdings, the subsidiary created by the now-jailed Sam Bankman-Fried and his associates, to purchase and hold around $256m worth of Bahamian real estate.

However, efforts by Brian Simms KC, the Lennox Paton attorney and partner, and the PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) duo of Kevin Cambridge and Peter Greaves, who are collectively overseeing the winding-up of FTX Digital Markets, to offload this valuable condominium complex have been held up by two separate legal actions initiated by investors who allege they paid multi-million sums to a

DPM: German twinning deal opens up Europe commerce

BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas is positioning itself to expand tourism, trade and airlift opportunities with Europe following the renewal of a town-twinning agreement with Nassau, Germany, the deputy prime minister said yesterday.

Chester Cooper, also minister of tourism, investments and aviation, said the agreement opens the door to deeper engagement between the two sides, particularly in travel, investment and cultural exchange.

“That’s an exciting opportunity to deepen friendships between Nassau, Germany, and Nassau in The Bahamas,” said Mr Cooper.  “Yes, we have diplomatic relationships, but

we want to expand tourism and trade and culture - students moving between our respective countries.”

He added that the agreement represents the early stages of what could become a broader economic relationship. “It’s the beginning, really, of the possibility of expanding tourism, trade and culture between our respective countries,” said Mr Cooper.  “Over time, this relationship, I expect, will continue to build and grow.”

He added that increased travel and business activity could eventually support expanded airlift between the two destinations, including the possibility of direct routes. “The more travel and trade there is between our countries, there’s an opportunity for expansion of direct flights and,

hopefully in the future, non-stop flights between our countries,” the deputy prime minister said.

Mr Cooper added that The Bahamas has been actively targeting the European market, particularly travellers seeking environmentally conscious experiences. “We understand that guests from Germany and Europe, in particular, want more eco-tourism, sustainable tourism-type products and services,” he said.

He pointed to initiatives such as catch-and-release fly fishing, as well as environmental attractions such as Coral Vita and mangrove restoration projects, as key selling points.

“As I’ve said, 75 percent of our guests say that sustainable tourism is something that they want

New York provider to give Bahamas faster payments

THE Central Bank yesterday said it had chosen a familiar contractor it has worked with before to create a Fast Payment System (FPS) solution for The Bahamas that will launch in early 2027.

The banking industry regulator, in a statement, said it has selected New York-based Montran Corporation from 16 competing bids to deliver a network that “enables real time payments” in the Bahamian domestic economy. It added that such a system will continue to modernise the Bahamian payments landscape and strengthen the coumtry’s transaction settlements infrastructure.

The Central Bank said that all bids were “vetted through a competitive and stringent evaluation exercise” in line with its procurement policy. The Fast Payment System is expected to launch by the 2027 first quarter, and all commercial banks, credit unions and licensed payments service providers will operate on it together with the Government and National Insurance Board (NIB).

The regulator said it will own and operate the Fast Payment System. In the tender documents, it said bidders “must ensure that the implemented solution supports real-time or near real-time payment transmission, and on as near to a 24-hour and seven-day (24x7) basis as possible”.

And they must also “guarantee interoperability with existing payments and settlements platforms in The Bahamas, namely the ACH (Automated Clearing House), Bahamas

Interbank Settlement System/Real Time Gross Settlement System (BISS/ RTGS) and the Bahamian Dollar Central Bank Digital Currency (BDCBDC), the Sand Dollar”. The solution has to “facilitate both direct and indirect participation from commercial banks, credit unions and other payment services institutions operating in the domestic payments space”.

Explaining the rationale for the Fast Payment System, the Central Bank added: “A key component of a stable and sound financial system is to promote an efficient, accessible and modern payments ecosystem. To augment its efforts toward a durable and effective payments space, the Bank launched The Bahamas Payments System Modernisation Initiative (PSMI) in the early 2000s.

“The PSMI aims to promote financial inclusion by enhancing the efficiency of the domestic payments landscape and target non-discriminatory access to financial services in The Bahamas…. Therefore, the imminent FPS is intended to further support the Bank’s efforts to increase payments efficiency in The Bahamas by allowing for real-time payments, thereby supporting commerce, the adoption of digital financial services and - to a broader extent - financial inclusion.”

The Central Bank said it has partnered with Montran on several payment system solutions since 2003, including The Bahamas’ Inter-bank Settlement System (BISS) - the real time gross settlement

(RTGS) system that settles large payment transactions between different commercial banks - and, more recently, The Bahamas Government’s Securities Depository (BGSD), which is a centralised securities depository (CSD).

Montran was described as a privately-owned software development company founded in 1979 with headquarters in New York. The company is a global payment system technology provider, with its RTGS

to explore,” Mr Cooper added. “We’ve been doing eco-tourism for five decades. The world is finally catching up.”

Mr Cooper also emphasised the broader economic impact of tourism, noting that many investment opportunities begin with a visitor experience. “Many investment projects begin as a tourism visit,” he said. “People come to The Bahamas, they fall in love, they want to build a house, they want to open a business.”

He said the country continues to position itself as an open economy for foreign direct investment, pointing to roughly $15bn in inflows over the past three years.

Latia Duncombe, director-general of tourism, said the renewed agreement will help formalise co-operation across several

key areas. “This renewed town-twinning agreement will strengthen co-operation across four key areas — cultural exchange, economic development, education and environmental sustainability,” said Mrs Duncombe.

She added that the agreement will support deeper engagement in arts, heritage and education, while also creating opportunities for trade and innovation-led growth. “It will also focus on education and youth empowerment, creating opportunities for academic exchange and programmes that encourage global awareness and connection,” said Mrs Duncombe. “This moment is symbolic. It brings forward an idea first imagined decades ago and positions it within a modern

solution implemented in more than 40 countries. It has established a footprint in the fast payment space through deployments in 11

Gov’t speaks to Meta, TikTok over Bahamian creatives pay

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Government is negotiating with digital platforms such as Meta, TikTok and X in a bid to ensure Bahamian creators and influencers can be paid for their work, the Prime Minister said yesterday.

Speaking at the first-ever ‘242 Influencers and Creatives’ conference, Philip Davis KC said the Government will be “making the case” about Bahamian talent to large social media platforms.

“We are reaching out to companies such as OpenAI, Meta, TikTok, X and others because we are making the case that talent and capability exist right here in The Bahamas,” said Mr Davis. “The work before us is to

build the relationships, the access and the systems that allow Bahamian creators to earn from their talent.”

He said the conference was designed to connect Bahamian creators with global platforms and industry stakeholders, providing direct engagement on eligibility requirements and future opportunities within the digital economy.

“This conference is built around exactly that idea; bringing global technology platforms, creative industry voices and Bahamian creators together,” Mr Davis said.He pushed back against the notion that domestic constraints are limiting creator earnings, adding: “There are no local barriers. The work before us is to build the relationships.”

countries, including in the Caribbean.

The Cenrral Bank added: “The implementation of an FPS solution

Mr Davis argued that while international platform access is critical, local participation must also improve. “Before we ask the global marketplace to monetise Bahamians, we have to do better at home,” he said. “Before we ask international brands to invest in Bahamian creators, local brands must lead as well.” He pointed to growing collaboration between Bahamian businesses and influencers as a positive sign, noting that such partnerships help validate the commercial value of local content creators. Mr Davis also signalled that the Government intends to play a more direct role in supporting the sector, revealing plans to allocate public sector advertising dollars towards Bahamian creators.

“I will direct government agencies and ministers to identify Bahamian influencers and creators who can help carry public information and public education messages, and to allocate intentional budgets for that purpose,” he said.

context; one that supports meaningful collaboration and certainly long-term value.”

Mr Cooper said the broader goal is to strengthen global awareness of The Bahamas beyond its traditional sun and sand appeal. “We are going beyond the beach,” he said. “We are creating new experiences that they will be able to come and enjoy. Ultimately, we want the world to know who we are. We want them to experience our culture, our heritage and the warmth of our people.”

expands on the Payment Systems Modernisation Initiative (PSMI), which targets improved outcomes that not only increase payments efficiency, but also keep pace with evolving global payments standards and trends.

“In line with this, the FPS solution will enable real time, continuous domestic payments settlement - at all hours of the day, week and year - while also providing interoperability with the existing payments and settlement platforms for the Automated Clearing House (ACH), the RTGS system and The Bahamas’ Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the Sand Dollar.”

Framing the initiative within a broader economic shift, Mr Davis told attendees: “When I look across this room, I see the outline of a new Bahamian economy.” He described creators as part of a growing sector of entrepreneurs leveraging digital platforms to build audiences and income streams, often starting with minimal resources.

“You took a phone, a camera, an idea and your own voice, and turned it into reach,” he said. Mr Davis said the Government’s role is to “open gates” for the next generation, arguing that access to opportunity - not talent - has been the primary constraint for many Bahamians.

“What was missing was never ability. What was missing was access. What was missing was connection,” he said. The Prime Minister urged creators to take advantage of emerging opportunities, adding: “Meet me in the middle. We will create the environment and give you the tools. You bring the discipline, the work ethic and the ideas.”

Water Corp: All Bahamians and residents set to benefit

state-owned utility. They added that the project, which is expected to last seven years, is set to launch in the 2026 fourth quarter provided that all financing agreements have been executed.

Among the key objectives is the implementation of climate-resilient upgrades to Water & Sewerage infrastructure, “including improvements to wellfields, strengthened distribution systems, increased storage and reduced water losses”, which the Corporation pledged will result “in a more reliable, efficient and sustainable water supply system”.

Mr Deal and his staff affirmed that these upgrades will directly benefit 54 percent of The Bahamas’ total population, or the 215,273 persons who currently receive Water & Sewerage supply at home or work, via “more reliable” service, reduced risk of salt water intrusion through better-designed wellfields, improved storage capacity and fewer system leaks and losses.

And, not to be left out, the Water & Sewerage Corporation chief and his team asserted that the remaining 199,727 Bahamas residents, equal to 46 percent of the population, will enjoy indirect benefits from strengthened water industry governance and improved planning surrounding the management of this nation’s natural resources.

Project documents obtained by Tribune Business disclose that the

targeted infrastructure upgrades include improvements to 34 groundwater systems and 23 wellfields in the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s existing “asset base”. There are also plans to “raise the elevation” of this infrastructure by between 0.5 metres to 1.5 metres so as to better protect them from hurricane-driven storm surge and wellfields being inundated by salt water that renders them unusable.

The project will also finance “the burial” of all water pipes and electricity sub-station connections to Water & Sewerage Corporation infrastructure so as to better protect them from hurricane wind damage, as well as the installation of back-up generators; pressure tanks; flow meters and “fire breaks” around Andros and Abaco pumping stations that provide a “20-metre stand-off”.

Besides covering Andros from north to south, the Green Climate Fund-financed initiative is also targeted primarily at New Providence, Abaco and Acklins. Mr Deal said it will also “enhance the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s financial sustainability” by slashing operating costs, improving efficiency and enhancing investment planning.

“The objective of this project is to enhance the resilience of the water sector in The Bahamas to safeguard the country’s water security in a changing climate,” the original project concept document, submitted in 2020, asserted. “The successful implementation

Yntegra blasts allegations as ‘garbage’, ‘inaccurate’

BATTLE - from page B1

Tribune Business was also informed that Yntegra’s Bahamian environmental consultants, BRON, were present on Big Sampson Cay to monitor the developer’s activities and ensure it complies with the approvals granted by DEPP and other government regulatory agencies. The Rosewood Exuma developer has also recently challenged the veracity of previous allegations by Mr Clark’s relating to its activities at the project site.

The Turtlegrass chief financial officer had previously claimed that the nature of construction equipment and materials being offloaded on Big Sampson Cay signalled that Yntegra was about to undertake major development activity. However, Felipe MacLean, the developer’s president, asserted in a March 19, 2026, affidavit that these were “inaccurate representations”, and alleged that the photographs and videos cited by Mr Clark to back his claims were of Dennis Cay - located seven

nautical miles away - and not of Sampson Cay. But Mr Clark, in his latest Supreme Court affidavit, alleged that Turtlegrass employees provided him with more videos showing “machinery clearing land, removal of brush, workers engaged in land‐disturbing activity and freshly exposed soil” on March 23, 2026”. He admitted, though, that he did not personally witness these activities but said the location appeared to the southern part of Big or East Sampson Cay where Yntegra has stored equipment. Mr Clark added that “the full nature and extent of the works” permitted by CEC2400A, which was granted by the DEPP to solely facilitate geotechnical studies requiring 31 boreholes to be dug to a depth of 30 feet, was “not at all clear”. A BRON report pledged that just 3 percent of vegetation would be cleared for these purposes, but Mr Clark alleged that this percentage potentially translated to “as much as 3.72 acres” that may be disturbed if it was referring to all of Rosewood Exuma’s 124 acres.

of these components will enable a transformation towards a climate-resilient water sector in The Bahamas… The Bahamas must urgently enhance the resilience of its water sector to safeguard its water security in a changing climate.”

The Green Climate Fund itself also described The Bahamas’ water supply infrastructure as being especially vulnerable to storm surges and run-off flooding given that “83 per cent of the country’s land area is below five metres above sea level. The Bahamas relies heavily on desalination plants, accounting for 81 per cent of the water produced”.

Mr Deal and his team, responding to this newspaper’s inquiries, confirmed: “This project is critical to future water infrastructure development in The Bahamas because it establishes scalable, climate-resilient designs and upgrades that can be replicated across islands, setting the standard for how systems are expanded and modernised.

“By strengthening wellfields, protecting groundwater sources reducing water losses and improving system resilience, the project directly safeguards the reliability and sustainability of potable water supply across the islands.

“By integrating improved monitoring, data systems,and climate risk–informed planning, it ensures that all future infrastructure investments are evidence-based, cost-effective and built to withstand long-term climate impacts.*

“The borehole layout plan in the BRON report shows 31 boreholes distributed across the island, where all the buildings are planned to be built according to the master plan,” he asserted, referring to Rosewood Exuma.

“The placement of multiple boreholes in areas where geological conditions would be uniform suggests that the boreholes are being used to justify road creation and infrastructure layout, rather than simply for geotechnical necessity. The BRON report therefore demonstrates that the works described as ‘geotechnical investigations’ are not simply for pre-development exploratory engineering studies.

“It is clear that the euphemistically described “geotechnical investigations” are far more than initial studies when one reviews the application for CEC 2400, the revised CEC 2400A and its renewal.”

Mr Clark alleged that this “self-evidently forms the horizontal works foundation of the entire Yntegra proposed development”.

Mr Clark argued that these CECs, which permit the geotechncial studies and associated works only, should have been accompanied by an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental

The original project concept paper admitted that the Water & Sewerage Corporation is struggling financially, relying on annual taxpayer subsidies expected to hit $48m during the current 2025-2026 Budget year before further increasing to $52m in the upcoming two fiscal years, with non-revenue water - representing water lost from the utility’s network due to leaks before reaching the end-consumer - costing as much as 30-60 percent of total supply on many islands.

“The Water & Sewerage Corporation is already struggling to generate sufficient revenue to cover its capital needs and operating costs, which are particularly high due to the dispersed nature of the water system across multiple islands,” the paper warned.

“Climate change will further reinforce these challenges, increasing the need for new infrastructure while also increasing the costs of maintaining, repairing and replacing existing infrastructure. Meanwhile, the central government also has limited fiscal space to cover such costs. The repeated impacts of Category Five hurricanes in 2017 and 2019 (Irma and Dorian) required significant public investment for post-disaster response, recovery and redevelopment.”

Mr Deal and his staff, though, said the $65.2m project - which is set to launch in the 2026 fourth quarter and last for seven years - will ultimately boost the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s financial prospects as well as its infrastructure. “The

Management Plan (EMP), as well as a site plan approval application to the Department of Physical Planning.

Instead, he alleged that DEPP had adopted an “iterative secret process” around the “serial secret” geotechnical CECs and other permits. And Mr Clark added that these were considered and approved by the environmental regulator at a time when Yntegra’s application for a CEC for the entire Rosewood Exuma project was still being considered.

“The effect of CEC 2400, CEC 2400A and [the latter’s] post-expiration renewal was to secretly ‘carve out’ substantial parts of the proposed development from that overall CEC application.. and to grant them secret, early environmental clearance without reference to any EIA, EMP or consultation,” Mr Clark claimed.

And he added that DEPP “revoked” CEC 2400, replacing it with CEC 2400A, after Rosewood Exuma’s proposed service dock and jetty - and their location - became controversial during the public consultation. The former permit, issued in August 2024, was for the construction of a service dock and jetty as well as geotechnical

project will significantly strengthen the reliability, resilience and efficiency of the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s infrastructure,” they asserted.

“Upgrades to wellfields, pumping stations, storage systems and distribution networks will make them more resistant to hurricanes, flooding and drought, reducing service disruptions and recovery time after extreme events. At the same time, improved groundwater management, expanded wellfield, and water loss reduction measures will increase sustainable water supply while lowering dependence on costly desalination.

“Together, these improvements will enhance operational performance, reduce system losses and ensure a more consistent and secure water supply across the islands,”they added. “In parallel, the project will enhance the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s financial sustainability, planning capacity and long-term adaptability.

“Lower operating costs, improved efficiency and strengthened regulatory frameworks will support better cost recovery and more sustainable investment planning. The introduction of advanced monitoring systems, a national decision support platform and a dedicated water resources management unit will enable data-driven decision-making and proactive climate risk management.

“With strengthened institutional capacity, clearer policies and trained staff, the Water & Sewerage

studies, but its replacement - issued barely two months later - eliminated these facilities and focused just on the latter.

“The effect of CEC 2400A was to generalise, minimise and obscure the true scope of the works carved out from the original CEC application under the broad and anodyne label of ‘geotechnical investigations’,” Mr Clark alleged. “The use of the CEC process in this manner has circumvented the statutory transparency and consultation requirements of both the Planning and Subdivisions Act and the Environmental Planning and Protection Act. He added that DEPP has also granted another CEC to the Rosewood Exuma project, this time for a 48-worker camp with 32-seat eating facilities, a nursery and maintenance area “to support the road work and geotechnical studies”.

“In my experience with construction at Turtlegrass, the scale of accommodation and support facilities authorised under CEC 2884 is far greater than what would ordinarily be required for genuine geotechnical investigations, which typically involve a small drilling crew and limited support personnel for

Corporation will be better equipped to plan, invest in and operate climate-resilient infrastructure well into the future.” Water & Sewerage Corporation customers, Mr Deal and his staff added, will “experience more reliable access to potable water, particularly during climate-related shocks such as hurricanes and storm surges, and stresses like drought and sea level rise.

“Improvements to wellfield design and operation will reduce salinity risks, while climate-proofed infrastructure, increased storage capacity and reduced leakage will ensure more consistent supply, faster recovery after disruptions and overall improved service quality,” they said.

Non-Water & Sewerage customers, meanwhile, “will benefit from strengthened national systems that support sustainable water management. Through improved policies, legislation and regulatory frameworks, as well as the establishment of the Water Resources Management Unit and decision support system, the entire population will gain from better planning, co-ordination and climate risk-informed decision-making,” Mr Deal and his staff pledged.

“These reforms will enhance the efficiency, sustainability and governance of the water sector, ensuring that future water resources and infrastructure are managed more effectively, ultimately contributing to improved public health, well-being and national water security.”

a short duration,” Mr Clark alleged.

“The scale of accommodation, dining, maintenance and support infrastructure authorised under CEC 2884 appears consistent with broader enabling works or construction activities, rather than limited borehole drilling or a small nursery. CEC 2884, therefore, reinforces my concern that the term ‘“geotechnical investigations/studies’ is being used to facilitate and support substantial enabling works for the proposed development.”

He further asserted: “In my view, Yntegra has been using… CEC 2400, CEC 2400A and now the renewed 2400A to carry out the foundational infrastructure works for the project while side-stepping the process for environmental clearance of the proposed development.

“A CEC application for the whole development was in process, but in the midst of that process Yntegra secretly ‘carved out’ major… parts of the proposed development from that overall CEC application, which was subject to an EIA, EMP and consultation, and DEPP granted them secret, early environmental clearance without reference to any EIA, EMP or consultation.”

Near-$3bn reserves a ‘meaningful cushion’

and jitneys as well as many companies with commercial vehicle fleets.

Current pump prices already range widely across New Providence, with gasoline listed at $5.32 at Esso, $5.53 at Rubis, and $5.77 at Shell. Based on Tribune Business calculations, a $1.02 per gallon rise will equal between a 17.7 percent to 19.2 percent increase if this occurs across all three petroleum chains.

“Risks to the outlook, including for inflation, have increased, as subsiding trade policy uncertainties have been displaced by escalated geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and associated higher global oil prices,” the Central Bank said yesterday. “The growth outlook, while still positive, could also significantly erode if the Middle East conflict becomes protracted.”

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had forecast that the Bahamian economy would expand by 2.2 percent this year, down from an estimated 2.8 percent growth in 2025, as it trends towards its projected long-run average potential

of around 1.5 percent following the post-COVID reflation.

The Central Bank emphasised that The Bahamas will be impacted in at least three ways by the Middle East conflict’s fallout. The first, which will now start to bite, is the fuel price shock driven by crude oil costs, which yesterday hit $116 per barrel on the Brent crude index before declining slightly to $112.

Given that oil is such a key commodity, and employed in the production of multiple goods and services as well as for fuel, no economic sector will be spared. Increased fuel prices, as well as increasing ground transportation costs, will also raise shipping and freight charges. The Bahamas, as an open economy highly dependent on imports for all it consumes, is especially vulnerable as higher shipping prices will translate into a greater cost of foods and other goods, thus fuelling inflation and the post-COVID cost of living crisis that many families have struggled to cope with.

The second impact will be on tourism, which is The Bahamas’ major industry.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I RICHARD VILLARD of Central Pine, Abaco, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I VANESSA LUCK of Central Pines Marsh Harbour Abaco, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I, DWIGHT KENNEDY of Pine Wood Gardens, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I RICHIE MESIDOR of Bacardi Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

Increased prices and inflation, as well as higher air fares, could undermine traveller confidence and their disposable incomes, harming both visitor arrivals and their in-destination spending in this nation, although this could be offset - at least somewhat - by this country’s relative proximity to the US, which is its major source market generating 90 percent of tourists. Finally, foreign direct investment (FDI) in The Bahamas could be impacted if major global central banks, such as the US Federal Reserve and European Central Bank (ECB), raise interest rates to combat inflation in their economies. This could raise the cost of foreign currency financing for investors eyeing Bahamas projects, potentially forcing them to abandon and delay their plans. The Bahamian government’s floating rate foreign currency debt could also become more expensive.

“The economy is exposed through several well-defined external channels,” the Central Bank confirmed. “These include increased energy price pressures and higher transportation and freight costs, which would increase the cost of imported goods and services, including motor vehicle fuel. That said, the fuel price hedge should stabilise electricity costs in most of The Bahamas in the near-team.

“The Bahamian tourism product, which still has a net positive growth outlook for 2026, also faces potentially eroded demand, particularly from weakened US consumer confidence. Conversely, the industry could encounter upside benefits as geographic proximity to the US cushions the relative cost of travel to The Bahamas vis-à-vis more distant destinations.

“Otherwise, the financing conditions for foreign investments and public

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that IAN OSWALD REECE of P.O. Box EE16542, of Windward Road Imperial Park, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that BERNARD JOSEPH of St. Vincent Road, Faith Avenue, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I IMTIAZ AHMAD of Carmichael/Miller Tuck Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that CATRINA MARIA PETITFRERE of Sunrise Road, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I, LEXINGTON ABRAHAM CURRY of Joe Farrington Road #2 P.O. Box # 7410, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

sector foreign currency debt operations could become more challenged if the major central banks are prompted to raise interest rates to calm global inflation concerns.”

The Central Bank, though, said increased foreign currency demand associated with purchasing more expensive oil imports poses no threat to the Bahamian dollar’s one:one peg with the US dollar.

“The Bahamas maintains healthy external reserves, which provide a meaningful cushion for increased oil import costs. This preserves the stable outlook for the currency. In addition, the domestic banking system remains well-capitalised against any new credit risk, should these emerge, hence the financial stability assessments remain sound,” the Central Bank said.

“Based on the current outlook and the strength of buffers within the financial system, the Central

Bank will retain an accommodative policy stance for private sector credit and pursue policies that ensure a favourable outturn for external reserves and financial stability. Further, through its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), the Bank will continue to observe developments within the foreign exchange market and, if required, adopt measures to support a sustainable outcome for foreign reserves.”

Giving more detail on the external reserves, the Central Bank said: “In February, external reserves grew by $48.4m to $2.898bn, exceeding the $39.6m accumulation in the preceding year. Contributing to this outturn, the Central Bank’s net foreign currency sales to the public sector decreased to $17.9m from $41.9m in the prior year.

“This more than offset the reduction in net purchases from commercial banks to $54.3m from $65m in the previous year. Conversely, commercial banks’ net intake from their customers increased to $55.3m from $23.5m a year earlier.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I, RENISHA SHALINA SANON of Murphy Town Abaco, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration/Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I, ANDRE MCINTYRE of Carmichael Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I ZAINUB AHMAD of Carmichael/Miller Tuck Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that I PERKY AHMAD of Carmichael Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that I JEAN KENEL CADET of Cowpen Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 24th day of March, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

Dealer backs call for VAT cap on fuel levy

COSTS - from page B1

particularly concerning because of its central role in moving goods and supporting economic activity across The Bahamas. A roughly 30 percent jump, he argued, will inevitably be passed through to consumers.

“How can the country survive with a 30 percent fuel increase?” he asked.

Mr Roker added that businesses across the supply chain are likely to face mounting pressure as fuel costs climb, forcing difficult decisions on pricing and operations.

“So, truthfully speaking, no one is able to say that they have anything to do

with the cost - the Government, the businesses -— they have no control over it,” he said. Despite those constraints, Mr Roker said both consumers and policymakers must begin preparing for continued volatility in global energy markets, including adopting more conservative consumption habits. “This is now the time to understand being conservative,” he said, encouraging motorists to reduce fuel usage where possible.

Mr Roker also pointed to global supply challenges, noting that some countries are already facing fuel shortages, highlighting the vulnerability of small,

Management. The latter are not named as defendants.

previous Ocean Terrace owner to purchase units in it.

Acting justice Lockhart-Charles’ ruling relates to the action initiated by Wyndhams Property Bahamas Ltd, a Bahamian-domiciled International Business Company (IBC) beneficially owned by UK investor Stephen James Horn and his wife, Victoria, who are seeking to enforce two 2008 sales agreements for the purchase of two Ocean Terrace condominium units from then-owner, North Andros Assets. That entity has now, though, been struck from the Companies Register.

The Horns, and Wyndhams property, have named as defendants all persons and companies connected to North Andros Assets, including the late attorney Thomas Evans KC and his law firm, Evans & Company, as well as FTX Property Holdings, which is Ocean Terrace’s present owner after acquiring the property from an affiliate of David Kosoy’s Sterling Asset

However, acting justice Lockhart-Charles said the problem facing Wyndhams is that North Andros Assets, which it dealt with as vendor, did not own Ocean Terrace when the 2008 sales agreements were drawn-up and signed because a Miami-based lender, Cordell Funding, had a loan secured on the development via a mortgage.

“In the events that transpired, North Andros Assets never lodged the declaration required to create the condominium units. Indeed, it was never in a position to do so, as it was neither the legal owner of the property in 2008 at the date of the agreements for sale, nor at any time after,” she recalled.

“Cordell parted with the property in 2013 when it exercised its power of sale to convey the 5.295-acre parcel in fee simple to the ninth defendant, The Palms West Bay Ltd. The property was subsequently conveyed by The Palms to the tenth defendant, Ocean Terrace, in 2014, and eventually to [FTX Property Holdings] in 2022.

import-dependent economies such as The Bahamas.

“We are very fortunate, being a small country,” he said. “We are extremely fortunate… and so now we have circumstances we have no control over.”

Mr Roker suggested that while the Government must maintain its revenue streams, there may be room to ease the burden on consumers through targeted policy adjustments — particularly in how VAT is applied to fuel.

“I think the responsible thing would be to say, let’s pay the VAT on what gas is normally sold at,” he said. “I think they can do that. I think they should do that.” Such a move, Mr Roker

“The central difficulty that Wyndhams faced was that it had contracted with a vendor that did not have legal title to the property the subject of the purchase agreement and was therefore wholly incapable of completing the sale…. The property was not legally owned by North Andros Assets, the declaration was never lodged by North Andros Assets, the condominium was never constituted by North Andros Assets, and there were never any units owned or created by North Andros Assets.”

She referred to Wyndhams’ “futile efforts” to enforce the sales agreements in 2012 when it spent $500,000 on Bahamian legal fees. However, its filing of the latest legal claim in 2024 has prevented FTX’s liquidator trio from being able to market Ocean Terrace for sale and dispose of it.

But acting justice Lockhart-Charles said Wyndhams and its owners “face very significant hurdles” to succeeding with their claim, not least because the Supreme Court had struck-out a similar claim to create “a powerful reason to doubt the viability of the claim against FTX Property Holdings”.

That claim was brought by Leo International

argued, could help cushion the immediate impact of sharp price swings, even if only temporarily.

At the same time, Mr Roker acknowledged that fuel dealers themselves are also facing growing pressure as wholesale costs rise faster than fixed margins that cannot adjust.

Against that backdrop, he warned that uncertainty remains the biggest challenge, with the potential for further increases still unclear. “Well, anything could happen,” Mr Roker said. “I hope it doesn’t happen, but make no mistake about it - this is serious.”

Meanwhile, Darvin Russell, the FNM candidate for

Holdings, an entity which Tribune Business records shows is linked to Dr Fabrizio Zanaboni, who headed Stellar Energy, the wasteto-energy entity behind a proposal for the New Providence landfall that was at the heart of the Renward Wells Letter of Intent (LOI) saga. Dr Zanaboni has launched legal action in relation to Ocean Terrace before.

Acting justice Lockhart-Charles said of Leo’s Ocean Terrace claim: “The court held that the plaintiffs’ claims did not create an equitable interest in the land capable of binding subsequent purchasers. This issue will be a serious hurdle for the claimant [Wyndhams] to overcome in the present case.” And Wyndhams had also filed its claim some six years after the Limitation Act deadline would have expired in 2018, given that the ‘cause of action’ had arisen in 2012.

“I note that the claimant asserts that the causes of action include fraudulent breach of trust, for which there is no limitation period. I find the breach of trust arguments to be tenuous at best,” the judge wrote. “The pleadings with regard to fraud are also, to my mind, less than adequate.

“Unsurprisingly, some of the defendants have filed

Centerville, argued that the Government had an opportunity to act ahead of the increase but failed to do so.

“The gas is going over $6.50 tonight. You heard me; tonight,” said Mr Russell.

“Three weeks ago, the FNM stood up and warned this government. We saw the conflict in the Middle East pushing oil prices higher around the world.”

Mr Russell said the Opposition had proposed a targeted measure to cushion the impact on consumers.

“We called on this government to cap the VAT charge on fuel — simple, targeted,” he said. “It had worked in Barbados during the last global oil spike. The blueprint already existed.”

strike-out applications. It would seem to me that these strike-out applications, similar to the Leo strike out application, have strong prospects of success….

“Taking all these factors into account, including the apparent limitation difficulties, the tenuous nature of the trust arguments, the inadequate pleading of fraud, and the problematic proprietary interest claim, I consider that the claims against the applicants will face very significant hurdles.”

Mr Russell added: “All

Philip Davis had to do was follow it. He did nothing. And now tonight, you’re going to feel it — every trip to the gas station, every delivery driver, every small business owner, every family trying to get the kids to school.”

He warned that higher fuel costs will be felt across all islands. “You’re going to pay the price for the Government’s inaction, whether you live in Nassau, and especially our brothers and sisters in the Family Islands,” Mr Russell said. Mr Davis previously asserted that comparisons with Barbados were inappropriate, and not ‘apples for apples’, because the petroleum industry in that Caribbean nation is structured differently with more government control.

FTX’s Bahamian liquidators, who will likely take encouragement from acting justice Lockhart-Charles’s ruling even though it does not deal with the claim’s merits, told the Supreme Court of Ocean Terrace in a prior report: “The joint official liquidators are aware of an allegation regarding a trespassing claim relative to all that ‘piece, parcel or lot of land containing 60 acres [including] Ocean Terrace (east of the Caves), West Bay Street” and demanding the joint official liquidators vacate the same.

“The joint official liquidators consider such claims, including the assertion of interest in the Ocean Terrace property, to be wholly unmeritorious and vexatious in nature. The joint official liquidators are considering taking legal action on behalf of FTX Property Holdings to ensure that any sale of the Ocean Terrace property can proceed securely and without interference.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL

The public is hereby advised that I, VIKRAM of Unit-2, House #18 Buen Retiro, Nassau, Bahamas intend to change my name to VIKRAM CHANDEL If there are any objections to challenge the name by deed poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, The Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of the publication of this notice.

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL

The public is hereby advised that I, LAKESHIA MONALISA THOMPSON of Joe Farrington Road, Nassau, The Bahamas intend to change my name to LAKESHIA MONALISA SAWYER If there are any objections to challenge the name by deed poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, The Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of the publication of this notice.

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL

The public is hereby advised that I, TIARRAH DAPHNEE GEDEUS of the Eastern District of the Island of Nassau, The Bahamas intend to change my name to TIARRAH DAPHNEE LINDA SEARS If there are any objections to challenge the name by deed poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, The Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of the publication of this notice.

Opening of Old Bight Community Clinic increases access to healthcare

PRIME Minister Philip Davis said knowing what families went through to access healthcare, while growing up in Old Bight, Cat Island, had “shaped how I see the responsibility and role of government in people’s lives”.

“That is why, from day one, my government has dedicated itself to strengthening our healthcare system and expanding access,” he said, at the clinic’s opening ceremony on March 26.

“We have since opened a new Accident and Emergency unit at the Princess Margaret Hospital and we have upgraded and expanded the emergency entrance on Elizabeth Avenue.

“But openings like this beautiful clinic before us today demonstrate a broader commitment beyond Nassau,” Prime Minister Davis added. “It shows that we have been intentional about upgrading clinics across our Family Islands, because people outside of Nassau deserve access to care at home.”

He noted that expanding access was about having a presence on every island, making sure that receiving the best possible urgent and outpatient care was not something that a resident would have to leave their island for.

Prime Minister Davis pointed

out the special features of the 3,300 square foot facility. He noted the covered drop-off area that “welcomes our patients with comfort, because care begins long before patients enter the building”; as well as the lobby and registration area, and dedicated triage room.

“I am equally excited to note that the presence of a pharmacy, a laboratory, and a phlebotomy room will ensure patients can see a doctor, complete necessary tests, and receive medication right here in this community,” he said. “This means less time spent on a plane to Nassau, less time between diagnosis and treatment, and more time focused on healing and recovery.”

“For me, this clinic is deeply personal,” he added. “It represents a commitment to a community that helped shape me. But this moment is bigger than me because it reflects the hopes of families across this island.”

Hannah Foster-Middleton

Getting back on your feet: Optimising recovery after surgery

Surgery can fix a problem, but recovery is where the real work begins. Whether it’s a knee replacement, shoulder repair, spinal procedure, or abdominal surgery, the period after the operation often determines how successful the outcome will be. Recovery takes patience, consistency, and the right professional support to regain strength, mobility, and confidence in your body. Here in Nassau, many people are surprised to learn just how important rehabilitation is after surgery. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping patients recover safely, reduce pain, and return to the activities they enjoy. Physiotherapists see firsthand how the right rehabilitation plan can transform a patient’s recovery journey

WHY REHABILITATION MATTERS AFTER SURGERY

After surgery, the body goes through a natural healing process. But during that time, muscles can weaken, joints can stiffen, and normal movement patterns can be disrupted. Without proper rehabilitation, patients may experience lingering pain, limited mobility, or even re-injury. Physiotherapy helps guide the body back to normal function by restoring movement, improving strength, and reducing inflammation. A structured rehabilitation program also helps prevent complications such as muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, poor posture, and balance problems.

Most importantly, it gives patients the confidence to move again.

STARTING THE RECOVERY PROCESS

One of the most common misconceptions about surgery is that rest alone will solve everything. While rest is important, appropriate movement is equally critical. In many cases, rehabilitation begins very soon after surgery— sometimes within days. Early movement helps improve circulation, reduce swelling and prevent stiffness.

This doesn’t mean jumping straight into intense exercise. Early rehabilitation may include simple activities such as gentle leg lifts, assisted walking, or basic mobility exercises. Gradually, as healing progresses, the program becomes more advanced.

KEY TECHNIQUES USED IN POST-SURGERY REHABILITATION

Every rehabilitation program is tailored to the individual, but several key techniques are commonly used to support recovery.

RANGE OF MOTION EXERCISES

After surgery, joints often become stiff due to swelling and reduced use. Range-of-motion exercises help restore flexibility and prevent long-term limitations in movement. These exercises are especially important after procedures involving the knees, hips, shoulders, or spine.

STRENGTHENING

EXERCISES

Surgery and inactivity can quickly weaken muscles. Targeted strengthening exercises help rebuild support around the surgical area. For example, strengthening the quadriceps muscles after knee surgery improves stability and walking ability.

BALANCE AND COORDINATION TRAINING

For patients recovering from lower limb or spinal surgeries, balance training is often essential. Improving stability reduces the risk of falls and helps restore normal movement patterns.

Manual Therapy

Physiotherapists often use hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, massage, or soft tissue release to improve movement and reduce discomfort.

ELECTROTHERAPY AND OTHER MODALITIES

Modern physiotherapy sometimes incorporates treatments such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound to assist healing and reduce pain. These modalities can help activate muscles, decrease

inflammation, and support tissue recovery.

FUNCTIONAL TRAINING

Ultimately, rehabilitation focuses on getting people back to everyday activities. This may include walking, climbing stairs, lifting objects, or returning to work or sport. The goal is not just recovery— but a return to normal life.

THE ROLE OF A SKILLED PHYSIOTHERAPIST

A skilled physiotherapist does far more than simply prescribe exercises.

Recovery begins with a thorough assessment to evaluate mobility, strength, pain levels, and functional limitations. From there, a customised rehabilitation plan is created based on the individual’s surgery, lifestyle, and goals.

Rehabilitation programs are designed to progress gradually and safely. As patients improve, exercises are adjusted to continue challenging the body without risking injury.

Education is also a big part of the process. Patients learn proper body mechanics, posture, and strategies to protect healing tissues during daily activities.

This knowledge empowers patients to take an active role in their recovery.

WHAT YOU CAN DO AT HOME

While physiotherapy sessions are important, recovery doesn’t stop when you leave the clinic. Your daily habits can significantly influence how quickly you heal.

Here are a few simple tips that can support your recovery:

STAY CONSISTENT WITH YOUR EXERCISES

Performing your prescribed exercises regularly helps maintain progress and prevents stiffness from returning.

MANAGE SWELLING AND PAIN

Using ice, elevating the affected area, and following medical advice regarding medication can help control discomfort.

EAT FOR HEALING

A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals supports tissue repair and energy levels.

PRIORITISE REST

Sleep is one of the body’s most powerful healing tools. Adequate rest allows tissues to repair and rebuild.

MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER

Removing trip hazards, improving lighting, and using assistive devices if recommended can reduce the risk of falls during recovery.

LOOKING BEYOND THE HEALING PHASE

Completing rehabilitation is a major milestone, but maintaining your progress is just as important.

Continuing with regular activity helps preserve strength, flexibility, and joint health. Many patients benefit from low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or light strength training.

Periodic check-ins with a physiotherapist can also help catch minor issues before they become bigger problems.

A Healthier Future After

Surgery

Surgery may repair the underlying problem, but rehabilitation restores the body’s ability to move, function, and thrive. With the right guidance, a structured rehabilitation plan, and consistent effort, most patients can return to their normal routines—and often feel stronger and more confident than before.

For those recovering from surgery in Nassau, working with experienced physiotherapy professionals can make the entire recovery process smoother and more successful.

Physiotherapy helps patients regain mobility, independence, and quality of life and that is what recovery is all about.

• For questions and comments, call Hannah Foster-Middleton at 356 4806, e-mail genesisphysiotherapy@gmail.com, or visit www.physiotherapybahamas. com.

We showed a 20% tax on junk food would save more lives than a sugar tax

Tazman Davies PhD Candidate, Food Policy, George Institute for Global Health

Jason Wu Professor and the Head of the Nutrition Science Program, George Institute for Global Health

EVERY Australian shopper knows the pull of cheap junk foods lining supermarket shelves. Meanwhile, the cost of fresh fruit and vegetables continues to climb.

So it’s little wonder conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes are so common, and Australia’s health-care system struggles to cope.

But what if policies could help level the playing field?

And what would that mean for our health and healthcare expenditure?

Our new research, published today in The Lancet Public Health, estimates a 20% tax on unhealthy foods could prevent 212,000 premature deaths and save A$14.9 billion in health-care costs over the lifetimes of Australian adults alive today. We estimated the health impact could be even greater if the tax revenue is used to subsidise fruit and vegetables.

WHAT WE DID

By “unhealthy foods”, we mean sugary drinks, lollies, salty snacks, biscuits, pastries, processed meat and ice cream. These are the kinds of foods the Australian Dietary Guidelines says we should limit for optimal health. Yet most Australians find them hard to resist.

We modelled how taxing these foods by 20% could shift the type of food

Australians buy. This could be a 20% tax on the retail price or a 20% tax applied at the point of manufacture (an excise tax). But our modelling didn’t specify the type, just that the price would increase by 20%.

We also modelled the knock-on effects on weight, blood pressure and chronic disease over the lifetimes of adults aged 20 or greater in Australia.

We then estimated what would happen if we used that revenue to subsidise fruit and vegetables, and any extra health benefits this would have.

We also looked at how these impacts could differ for households across the socio-economic spectrum – from the poorest 20% to the richest 20% – to see how taxes and subsidies might affect people in different financial situations.

WHAT WE FOUND

We estimated the 20% tax could cut purchases of unhealthy foods by about 8–26%, depending on the category.

This could lead to 660,000 fewer cases of type 2 diabetes and 787,000 fewer cases of heart disease over the remaining lifetimes of Australian adults alive today. In turn, this could prevent about 212,000 premature deaths.

The economic returns could be substantial. We estimated a total reduction of $14.9 billion in health-care costs. That’s a health-care cost saving of $781 per adult over their lifetime.

While the average Australian could pay about $139 more in tax each year, the policy could help make Australia fairer: low-income Australians could experience roughly 76% greater health benefits than high-income Australians. This is because low-income Australians bear the greatest burden of diet-related illness and could see the largest reductions in purchases of unhealthy foods. So this measure would ease the unequal burden of obesity, diabetes and heart disease on those affected the most.

The revenue raised could also be enough to reduce the average cost of fruits and vegetables by 19–26% across the population. This could ease cost-of-living pressures,

avert 194,000 more cases of heart disease and prevent an additional 45,000 premature deaths. Implementing the tax and subsidy together would also come at no net cost to the government.

HOW DOES THIS COMPARE TO A SUGAR TAX?

You might have heard about proposals for a “sugar tax” that taxes sugary drinks. It’s an approach the World Health Organisation endorses. But we estimated extending these taxes to unhealthy foods more broadly could deliver around seven times the health benefits.

Similarly, the tax-and-subsidy package we modelled could have a greater impact than mandating the Health Star Rating, restricting junk food advertising, reducing harmful ingredients in products (such as salt), or running a national healthy eating campaign.

This doesn’t mean the tax-and-subsidy package alone will fix the enormous personal and health-care costs of unhealthy diets in Australia. But our findings reinforce its potential to be a powerful policy lever the government should consider.

After all, we know price is a strong driver of the foods we buy.

WHAT NOW?

Australian politicians are debating a tax on sugary drinks. This is a great start,

but our findings suggest Australia should consider a broader system of taxes and subsidies for much greater impact.

Public support for such measures is strong. Around 53% of Australians support a tax on unhealthy foods, rising to around 72–74% if the revenue is used to subsidise fruit and vegetables. The subsidies could be delivered through existing avenues. These include using vouchers, via school programs, retail subsidies in First Nations communities, and healthy food prescription programs.

Advocacy from health and community groups could help drive policy uptake. In Colombia, such sustained advocacy led to the introduction of a 20% tax on unhealthy foods. Evidence suggests this is improving population diets without affecting jobs in the food industry.

Australia has navigated similar debates before. Tobacco taxes, once controversial, have contributed to large reductions in smoking while funding initiatives such as the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation. Given unhealthy diets and being overweight now drive more chronic disease than smoking, we should be considering equally sensible measures – including food taxes and subsidies –to help Australians act on their best intentions at the supermarket.

MARINE FORECAST

Young women encouraged to reflect and shape their own futures

By Jeffarah Gibson Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

A ROOM filled with curiosity, confidence and quiet ambition set the tone for the Girls Edition of an International Women’s Day brunch aimed at empowering the next generation of Bahamian women on Friday.

Bringing together 100 grade eleven and 12 students from across the country, including the Family Islands, the event created a space where young women were encouraged to engage, reflect and see themselves as capable of shaping their own futures.

From the outset, the experience was designed to move beyond surface-level inspiration, offering meaningful conversations, mentorship and opportunities that allowed attendees to connect both with speakers and with each other.

According to BAF Global Marketing Supervisor Alliyah Austin, the atmosphere inside the room was immediately noticeable.

“The atmosphere was uplifting, intentional, and full of positive energy from the moment the girls arrived,” she said. “There was excitement, but also curiosity and openness. What stood out most was how engaged they were. These were not passive attendees. The girls leaned into the conversations, asked thoughtful questions, and really embraced the opportunity to connect.”

That level of engagement became one of the defining features of the brunch. Rather than simply listening, attendees actively participated, reflecting on what they were hearing and drawing connections to their own lives.

Austin noted that the impact of the conversations was rooted in authenticity.

“The speakers shared journeys that were real, including their challenges, growth, and successes, and that made it easier for the girls to see themselves in those stories. You could actually see a shift in the room. They moved from just listening to reflecting. Through their reactions and questions, it was clear they felt seen, heard, and encouraged to think bigger about their futures.”

The event featured a lineup of speakers who delivered messages centred on self-worth, leadership and personal responsibility. Among them were Youth Minister Mericha Walker, Senator D’Asante Small

message throughout the event was that these young women are already powerful and capable right where they are,” Austin explained. “They were encouraged to prioritise their well-being and to recognise that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the leaders

grounded in confidence and purpose is essential.”

Beyond inspiration, the brunch also placed a strong emphasis on access and opportunity. Austin said BAF Global’s approach to mentorship is intentional and action-driven, ensuring young people

motivated, but supported in tangible ways.

“This is not just about motivation, it is about creating access. From the conversations to the networking opportunities, everything was designed to be meaningful. We also introduced six internship ous fields, including STEM and within BAF Global

journaling session, where attendees were asked to reflect on where they see themselves in three years.

“There was a quiet but powerful shift during that moment,” Austin said.

“The girls began connecting what they heard throughout the event to their own personal goals. It moved from inspiration to intention, and you could feel that transition in the room.”

That sense of intention carried through to the closing moments, as many of the young women took the opportunity to engage directly with speakers, ask questions, and begin building connections.

Looking ahead, Austin said the goal is for attendees to leave with more than just a good experience, but with a renewed sense of confidence and clarity.

“The hope is that they move through their everyday lives knowing they can lead, take up space, and

pursue their goals without hesitation. More importantly, that they begin to see themselves as leaders now, within their schools, their communities, and eventually their careers.”

The Girls Edition brunch builds on the success of BAF Global’s established International Women’s Day initiative and signals a broader commitment to youth development across the country.

With plans to expand and reach even more young women, including those in the Family Islands, Austin said BAF Global remains focused on creating spaces that inspire, connect and open doors.

“This is just the beginning,” she said. “We are committed to continuing to create platforms that bring young women together for mentorship, exposure and opportunity. The goal is to keep building experiences that truly make a difference.”

Bernadette’s historic appointment

Bernadette D Gibson recently made history when she became the first Bahamian to be elected to the posts of Lieutenant Governor (2024-2026) and Governor Elect (2026-2028) for Zonta International District 11. This election is noteworthy for The Bahamas and the Caribbean region, as it is the first time it was given to someone outside of the United States.

Ms Gibson joined Zonta in 2000 and has held many leadership positions at various levels within the organisation including local, Area and District levels, prior to being elected to the senior rank.

these young women, but ing in their

One of the most impactful moments of the morning came during a guided

As Governor Elect for Zonta International District 11, she will maintain oversight, management and establishment of Zonta Clubs in The Bahamas, the Caribbean; British Virgin Islands; Puerto Rico and the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, Commission and Tennessee in the Southeast United States. She recently traveled to New York to participate in the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) held 919 March.

During her trip she had the opportunity to visit the Bahamas Permanent Mission to the United Nations and The Bahamas Consulate General, where she

held brief conversations with the Bahamian ambassador to the United Nations Stan Smith, and Leroy Major, Consul General. Bernadette’s stellar contribution to “Building a Better World for Women and Girls” remains a testament of her unwavering commitment to attend to the needs of others, with a loving and caring spirit.

As a leader, she seeks to provide wise guidance to those with whom she interacts and aims to do so in a humane, composed yet professional and gracious manner.

Ms Gibson is a human resource specialist. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Windsor, Canada, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Miami, Florida, and the Senior Professional in Human Resources International designation (SPHRi).