CAF Development Bank activates its partnership with The Bahamas
CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean successfully concluded an exploratory mission to The Bahamas.
The mission follows the formal agreement signed between The Bahamas and CAF in April 2024 and the passage of the CAF Bill on July 26, which laid the groundwork for the commencement of CAF operations in the country.
It also marks an important step in deepening an understanding of the key areas where CAF can provide strategic support.
Led by CAF’s Regional Manager for the Caribbean, Dr Stacy Richards-Kennedy, and CAF’s Representative for the Northern Caribbean, Oscar Avalle, the two-day mission sought to establish and strengthen relationships across the state sector.
It also demonstrated CAF’s collaborative approach – listening closely to the unique needs of its shareholder countries to deliver agile and flexible financial solutions.
During the mission, CAF representatives held productive discussions with Prime Minister Philip Davis and Minister of Foreign Affairs Frederick Mitchell. They also paid a courtesy call on Leader of the Opposition Michael Pintard and East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson.
The team engaged in working sessions with senior technocrats across various ministries, presenting CAF’s expertise in areas such as infrastructure development, climate change, sustainable agriculture, education, and health, all aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
CAF also highlighted its potential support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and water management solutions.
Dr Stacy Richards-Kennedy stated: “We are pleased to have engaged directly with key stakeholders in The Bahamas. This mission represents the start of what we anticipate to be a long and productive partnership. Our focus is on aligning our expertise with the country’s priorities, and we are ready to support The Bahamas in realising its development goals.”
Oscar Avalle, added: “At CAF, we recognise that every country’s development needs are unique, and The Bahamas is no exception. As we move forward, our priority is to ensure our support is responsive, flexible, and delivered with the agility required to meet the evolving needs of the Bahamian people. Our commitment is to serve as a reliable development partner in building a sustainable and resilient future for The Bahamas.”
CAF stated that it looks forward to working closely with all actors in the national development process to advance its partnership with The Bahamas and contribute to the nation’s continued development and prosperity.
