Government of The Bahamas Welcomes $55 Million Agreement with Saudi Fund for Development

The Bahamas government has welcomed the signing of a US$55 million agreement with the Saudi Fund for Development, which it says will further boost the socio-economic development of Eleuthera, one of the archipelago’s islands.

Upgrading the North Eleuthera International Airport

Prime Minister Phillip Davis, speaking at the signing ceremony, said the steady rise in air arrivals and international interest isn’t just about visitors coming to enjoy Eleuthera’s beauty; it is about all the island has to offer the world.

“The partnership with the Saudi Fund for Development marks a turning point for Eleuthera and its people. There has been talk about upgrading the North Eleuthera International Airport for years, but today, we are moving from talk to action. This $55 million investment is about unlocking Eleuthera’s potential and ensuring its people can fully benefit from its rapid growth,” Davis said.

Creating Jobs and Opportunities

Davis said that the airport’s upgrade will strengthen the local economy, create more jobs, and provide greater opportunities for businesses.

“By enhancing the airport’s capacity to handle more visitors, we directly support the tourism sector, at the heart of Eleuthera’s economy. This investment will help bring in more international flights, increase connectivity to the rest of The Bahamas, and open new avenues for local entrepreneurs,” he said.

Addressing Growing Pains

However, Davis acknowledged that as Eleuthera grows, the government recognizes that rapid development comes with challenges.

“The increase in economic activity and the rise in population have strained our utility services, particularly electricity and water. These growing pains are not unique to Eleuthera, but they are challenges we are fully committed to addressing,” he said.

Improving Service Delivery

Davis said that his government is taking aggressive steps to improve service delivery across Eleuthera and Harbour Island.

“We are committed to providing long-term solutions. The work we are doing with BPL and the Water and Sewerage Corporation is part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure reliable access to electricity and clean water for every resident of Eleuthera,” he said.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Davis’s vision is simple: “to move beyond these growing pains and ensure that Eleuthera has what it needs to support its people and its economy for years to come.”

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of the US$55 million agreement with the Saudi Fund for Development?
A: The agreement will further boost the socio-economic development of Eleuthera, one of the archipelago’s islands.

Q: What are the benefits of upgrading the North Eleuthera International Airport?
A: The upgrade will strengthen the local economy, create more jobs, and provide greater opportunities for businesses.

Q: How is the government addressing the growing pains of rapid development in Eleuthera?
A: The government is taking aggressive steps to improve service delivery across Eleuthera and Harbour Island, including upgrading the power generation capacity and addressing water supply concerns.