AGP Executive Report

Power Supply: Repeated BPL outages continue across New Providence, affecting hospitals and schools. One prolonged blackout left a family scrambling for generator fuel to keep an 86-year-old relative’s electric bed running. Global Standards: The Bahamas has won another three-year term on the ISO Council, giving the country a voice in international standards that shape trade and business. North Eleuthera Airport: Emergency runway repairs are under way after Western Air suspended flights over safety concerns; the temporary work is expected to take 12 days. Telecommunications: Former Aliv executive Gravette Brown has been appointed BTC’s new CEO, succeeding Sameer Bhatti. Food Security: Golden Yolk has produced 200,000 eggs, with 10,000 laying hens in production as the government seeks to cut imports and expand local supply. Tourism: Economist Therese Turner-Jones says The Bahamas needs to measure itself against regional competitors; the country missed a global tourism ranking after too few businesses completed the survey. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects 3% growth for The Bahamas in 2026, down from 3.8% last year.

Bahamas Food Security: Prime Minister Philip Davis visited the Golden Yolk Project, touting 200,000 eggs produced, 10,000 laying hens in production and about 8,000 pullets raised to cut egg imports and boost local supply. Labour & Jobs: The Bahamas National Statistical Institute released its first-quarter labour force survey, showing underemployment rising to 29,085 people (+11%) while unemployment trends downward. Public Service Politics: Bahamas Public Services Union elections are over, but members are disputing whether proper procedures were followed, with BPSU president Alexander Burrows Jr. defending the process while raising that some confusion occurred on election day. Education Partnership: Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Chester Cooper told parents that stronger home-school partnership is key to improving literacy, numeracy, attendance, safety and student well-being. Tourism Youth: Junior Tourism Minister Raia Cargill will represent The Bahamas at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Regional Tourism Youth Congress in Guyana. Health Innovation: Urologist Dr. Greggory Pinto performed The Bahamas’ first GreenLight photovaporization surgeries for obstructive prostate conditions at Doctors Hospital. Cruise & Travel: CruiseHuddle’s audit says solo-labeled cabins can cost more than standard options, urging travellers to compare guarantee vs dedicated solo pricing. Regional Climate Watch: CariCOF warns a strong El Niño could bring drought and humid heat later this year, with possible coral bleaching risk around the Bahamas. Media Loss: Veteran broadcaster Steve McKinney has died at 64, prompting tributes from Prime Minister Davis and the Bahamas Press Club.

Youth Football & Tourism: Inter Miami CF Foundation and Royal Caribbean hosted the first International Fútbol Youth Clinic in The Bahamas in Nassau, bringing up to 120 local players together with coaches and programming supported by the Bahamas Football Association. Food Security: The Golden Yolk Project has produced 200,000 eggs and is running 10,000 laying hens, with 8,000 pullets raised to expand local supply and cut reliance on imported eggs. Public Safety & Schools: Three students at C.C. Sweeting Senior High were injured by a faulty electrical wire; classes were dismissed early while BPL and BGC investigated and worked on repairs. Health & Community Support: Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group continues to offer guidance and resources across diagnosis, treatment and survivorship, supporting survivors and families through emotional and practical help. Finance Oversight: Bahamas officials say the upcoming CFATF assessment will be a key test of how well the country detects, reports and acts on illicit financial activity to protect banking relationships. Disaster Readiness: The Bahamas has joined a UN AI disaster resilience programme, seeking training and local control over data-sharing to improve storm warnings and recovery. Sports & Culture: Pretty In Pink returns for its 11th annual fundraiser for the Cancer Society of The Bahamas, with events at John Bull and support for breast cancer screening. Media Loss: Veteran broadcaster Steve McKinney has died at 64, remembered for decades of journalism and community impact through Peace 107.5 FM.

Education Safety: C.C. Sweeting Senior High School dismissed early after a faulty electrical wire left three students with minor burns; Deputy PM and Education Minister Chester Cooper said crews moved in to make the campus safe, after renewed concerns from teachers about electrical safety. Public Service & Infrastructure: North Eleuthera Airport runway repairs are underway after Western Air suspended flights over deteriorating conditions; the Ministry of Works says emergency milling and resurfacing will restore safe operating conditions, separate from the larger IDB-funded rehabilitation. Cost of Living: Motorists report sharp, fast-rising gas prices, with the Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association pointing to global oil-route disruptions and calling for coordinated solutions among wholesalers, retailers and government. Media Loss: Veteran broadcaster Steve McKinney Sr. has died; condolences poured in from the Prime Minister and across the media community for decades of national and sports reporting. Youth & Opportunity: Grand Bahama’s Young Innovators Club launches with an eight-week challenge and a $50,000 prize purse, as Acting PM Chester Cooper urged young people to build the island’s next chapter. Health & Community: The Bahamas National Breastfeeding Association held its Umbrellathon in Carmichael to promote breastfeeding awareness and support maternal and child health. Sports: Team Bahamas women’s bowling campaign ends at the PANAM championships in Bogotá, finishing 10th in the team event. Business/Telecom: BTC CEO Sameer Bhatti steps down; board chair Inge Smidts will lead operations while a search begins for a successor. Economy Watch: The unemployment rate fell to 8.1% in Q1 2026, with hotel and restaurant jobs driving much of the employment increase.

North Eleuthera Airport Runway Repairs: The Ministry of Works says emergency works at North Eleuthera Airport include milling and resurfacing the central runway section, fixing defective areas, and renewing markings—separate from the larger IDB-financed rehabilitation project. Fiscal Pressure: Opposition finance spokesman J. Kwasi Thompson says Fitch’s forecast of a 0.5% deficit instead of the budgeted surplus confirms warnings that the government’s surplus is slipping. BTC Leadership Change: Bahamas Telecommunications Company CEO Sameer Bhatti is stepping down, with board chair Inge Smidts set to lead operations while a successor is sought. Bahamas Fund in Court: A Bahamas-licensed investment fund, FAEX Fund Ltd., faces winding-up proceedings tied to allegations of about $1.6bn diverted from Banco Master. Grand Bahama Jobs & Severance: Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell says PM Davis plans a Freeport civil society meeting before month-end on plans for the city, including severance issues raised by former Grand Lucayan workers. Youth Innovation Boost: Acting PM Chester Cooper launched the Young Innovators Club at St. Georges High, with a $50,000 prize purse for participating clubs. Marine Education Support: RF Bank & Trust backs BREEF with underwater communication equipment to make snorkeling and marine learning more interactive. Sports: Team Bahamas women’s bowling wrapped up at the Pan American Women’s Championships in Bogotá, finishing 10th in the team event.

Royal Visit & Slavery Legacy: Buckingham Palace says King Charles and Queen Camilla will “not shy away” from Britain’s “darkest days of our past” during a Caribbean tour that includes the Bahamas, but will not issue a formal apology or offer financial reparations, with the issue left to the British government. Grand Bahama Jobs & Payments: Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell says PM Philip Davis plans to visit Freeport before month-end to convene stakeholders on the island’s future, including the severance dispute involving former Grand Lucayan Resort employees. Business & Tourism Networking: The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce held a “power of connections” brunch aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, highlighting tourism and entrepreneurship ties. Environment & Community: Keep Grand Bahama Clean marks 20 years, tackling litter and illegal dumping, including in well fields, through education and partnerships. Aviation Safety: The U.S. Coast Guard continues searching after a Gulfstream G100 carrying six people vanished after leaving Bermuda for Boston, with wreckage later found near Nantucket. Cruise Industry Watch: Carnival Festivale is floated for 2027 Caribbean sailings, including visits to Grand Bahama’s Celebration Key.

Royal Tour & Reparations: Buckingham Palace says King Charles will address Britain’s “darkest days of our past” on a Caribbean tour that includes the Bahamas, but will not issue a formal apology or offer financial reparations, with the UK government reiterating it won’t pay. Commonwealth Diplomacy: The King and Queen’s autumn programme also includes a Guyana state visit Oct 29–30 ahead of CHOGM in Antigua and Barbuda, with meetings spanning community, business, and environmental themes. Local Politics & Sovereignty Row: Bahamian officials and commentators continue trading barbs over claims about US Justice/DEA activity in the country without permission, with debate focused on sovereignty and public accountability. Aviation Update: Search efforts continue after a Bermuda-to-Boston medical jet carrying six vanished and a debris field was found off Massachusetts. Travel & Tourism: Southwest announces new nonstop Austin–Nassau service starting June 5, 2027, while cruise entertainment news spotlights SpongeBob’s musical debut on Royal Caribbean’s Hero of the Seas. Culture: The Bahamas marks the passing of calypso legend Slinger Francisco, “The Mighty Sparrow.”

Royal Caribbean Entertainment: Royal Caribbean says “The SpongeBob Musical” will debut at sea on the new Icon-class Hero of the Seas, launching from Miami in August 2027, with a Caribbean itinerary that includes Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas. Royal Visit & Reparations: Buckingham Palace confirms King Charles will address Britain’s “darkest days of our past” during a Caribbean tour that includes the Bahamas, but will not issue a formal apology or offer financial reparations, pointing to the UK government’s stance. Local Environment: Keep Grand Bahama Clean marks 20 years, stressing ongoing fights against illegal dumping, including in well fields, while highlighting education and community partnerships. Business & Growth: Trevor Williams of Grand Bahama’s Out Island Water says entrepreneurship after COVID requires staying close to the market and daily operations. Cruise Cleanup: Carnival Cruise Line highlights beach and waterway cleanups across homeports and destinations, including the Bahamas, as it continues to repair its public image after past environmental controversies. Sports & Community: EV Motors Open returns at Baha Mar with free admission, mixed doubles tennis, and an automotive showcase.

Royal Tour & Reparations: Buckingham Palace says King Charles will address Britain’s “darkest days of our past” during a Caribbean tour that includes a Bahamas stop, but will not issue a formal apology or offer financial reparations, pointing to government policy while acknowledging colonial legacy and the transatlantic slave trade. Diplomatic Calendar: The King and Queen will also visit Guyana Oct. 29–30 ahead of CHOGM in Antigua and Barbuda, with engagements focused on trade, investment, conservation, and historical ties. Bahamas Economy & Finance: Fitch has rejected the Davis administration’s surplus projections, estimating a 2025/26 deficit instead; the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce urges cost control and better income tracking without adding new taxes. Local Justice: The Court of Appeal upheld a decision to refuse bail for a man accused of murdering former Tall Pines MP Donald Saunders. Community & Health: CIBC Caribbean’s Walk for the Cure returns every Saturday in October across multiple islands, supporting Bahamian cancer groups. Tourism & Business: EV Motors Open is back at Baha Mar with mixed doubles tennis, an automotive showcase, and free admission.

Royal Visit Watch: Buckingham Palace says King Charles III will “not shy away” from Britain’s “darkest days of our past” during a Caribbean tour that includes a Bahamas stop from Oct. 27–29, but it also reiterates there will be no formal apology or reparations—issues the palace says remain for governments to handle. Tourism & Travel: Southwest Airlines announced new routes that will add Nassau service starting June 3, 2027 (twice weekly on weekends through Aug. 2), boosting connectivity for Bahamian travellers. Local Justice: The Court of Appeal upheld a decision refusing bail for a man accused of murdering former Tall Pines MP Donald Saunders. Business & Finance: Fitch rejected the Davis administration’s surplus projections, estimating a 2025/26 deficit; the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce urged cost-cutting and better tracking of existing income before any new taxes. Community & Culture: Paradise Plates returned with a disco-themed fundraiser, while CIBC Caribbean’s Walk for the Cure kicks off Saturdays in October across multiple islands. Sports & Events: EV Motors Open returns to Baha Mar Oct. 2–4 with tennis, an auto showcase, and free admission.

Royal Visit & Slavery Reparations: Buckingham Palace says King Charles’s Caribbean tour—including a Bahamas stop—will address “the darkest days of our past,” but the UK will not offer an official apology or financial reparations, sticking to government policy. Aviation Disruption: Western Air has suspended North Eleuthera flights after runway damage worsened; the Ministry of Works says the runway needs a complete repair, not patching. Healthcare Governance: The Public Hospitals Authority announced its 2026–2027 board appointments, effective July 1, as major hospital and facility projects move forward. Public Health & Safety: A prolonged Central New Providence power outage left a family scrambling for generator fuel to keep an elderly aunt’s electric bed running, highlighting risks for vulnerable residents. Tourism Economy Watch: Fitch warns cruise-heavy arrivals limit broader economic and fiscal benefits, while The Bahamas remains excluded from a major global tourism index due to insufficient business survey participation. Local Crime Update: Police say there are still no arrests in the Warren “Spy” Ellis murder case in Abaco. Community & Culture: “The Silk Walk Experience” won Best Story at the London Fashion Film Festival, boosting visibility for Bahamian fashion storytelling. Sports: Team Bahamas women’s bowling competed in trios at the Pan American Championships in Bogotá. Business/Finance: Fitch and S&P both reject government surplus projections, forecasting The Bahamas will remain in deficit. Human Interest: Bahamas Humane Society welcomed a new president, Lissa McCombe-Pinder.

DEA Dispute: Prime Minister Philip Davis says The Bahamas is not “fearing” U.S. drug enforcement, but insists Washington follow proper cross-border process after claims of undercover DEA activity without Bahamian knowledge. Sovereignty & UN Climate: At the UN General Assembly, Davis told leaders there’s “no uncertainty” in the climate crisis, warning rising seas threaten statehood and citing the El Niño-linked human toll. Tourism & Air Links: The Bahamas’ October push leans on new connectivity, including Aeroméxico’s planned Mexico City–Nassau nonstop starting March 19, 2027, plus expanded U.S. routes. Local Governance & Services: Long Island MP Andre Rollins raised concerns about unreliable mailboat service to the south, calling it an “economic lifeline” for residents and seniors. Community & Health: Commonwealth Brewery marks its 40th with an “Ultimate Bahamian Brewing Festival” Oct. 3, while RF Bank & Trust continues sickle cell support and Colina Insurance backs the Alzheimer’s fun run/memory walk. Conservation: BPMC assessed 70 Marine Protected Areas to move “paper parks” toward effective management.

DEA Dispute & Sovereignty: Prime Minister Philip Davis urged the U.S. to follow proper procedures for law-enforcement operations in The Bahamas amid claims of “rogue” DEA activity, saying the issue is process, not targeting criminals. Credit Rating Watch: Economist Therese Turner-Jones called S&P’s latest “BB-” assessment “extremely weak,” while S&P pointed to cruise strength and improving fiscal performance but warned risks tied to state-owned enterprises and contingent liabilities. Tourism Pressure Point: Turner-Jones also argued tourism growth isn’t translating into wider economic opportunity for locals, challenging the “myth” that visitors alone are carrying the economy. Local Governance & Services: Long Island MP Andre Rollins raised concerns about unreliable mailboat service to the south, citing a contract problem and late government payments. Labour & Politics: FNM leader Michael Pintard disputed the PM’s claim that Grand Lucayan workers were paid, saying constituents still have not received what they’re owed. Public Finance Oversight: Finance Minister Michael Halkitis said Fiscal Responsibility Council criticism shows the system is working as government updates its PPP framework. Nurses Union Court Order: A Supreme Court judge ordered Bahamas Nurses Union factions to hold elections by Nov. 13 after finding governance breaches. AI Regional Talks: The Bahamas joined IDB-led high-level discussions on safe AI adoption across Latin America and the Caribbean. Cruise & Travel Buzz: Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class Legend of the Seas gets a hands-on review, while Royal Caribbean and other lines push new Caribbean sailings and promotions.

Women’s Advocacy: Mrs. Ann Marie Davis was honoured at a “Women Have a Voice Too” symposium in Centreville, with ministries and community groups sharing support services and resources. Church Milestone: Mt. Calvary Baptist Cathedral marks 80 years of ministry with an anniversary week running Oct. 6–11 in Nassau. Charity & Arts: Paradise Plates 2026 opened its Hands for Hunger art auction, featuring two Stefan “Legend” Davis originals, with bidding through Oct. 3. National Insurance: The NIB welcomed a newly appointed board, outlining priorities including fund sustainability, technology upgrades, workforce development and stronger collections. Bahamas-U.S. Security: The U.S. and The Bahamas reaffirmed the AUTEC lease extension on Andros, even as the wider DEA controversy continues. Tourism & Wealth Policy: Government says VAT will be removed from trust services by end-2026 and from certain property transfers into trusts, alongside a new Family Office Programme. Healthcare on the Family Islands: Nurses Union leaders respond to videos and complaints from Bimini and Abaco, alleging ambulance gaps and clinic staffing issues. Sports & Regional Football: The Bahamas lost 3-1 to the U.S. Virgin Islands in Concacaf Nations League action, while Aruba topped Group B after beating Anguilla. Cruise Industry Watch: Norwegian Cruise Line highlights major Great Stirrup Cay upgrades, including a new pier and expanded on-island amenities.

Tourism & Travel: Holland America will bring professional pickleball to Half Moon Cay, with the Private Island Invitational set for March 13, 2027 during a seven-night Caribbean sailing. Cruise Updates: Virgin Voyages warned its Oct. 3 Brilliant Lady trip may reroute as Hurricane Rachel approaches, with contingency plans under review. Bahamas Events: EV Motors returns for EV Open Mixed Doubles Tennis & Autoshowcase Oct. 2–4 at Baha Mar’s John McEnroe Tennis Center. Sports: The Bahamas men’s national team fell 3-1 to the USVI in CONCACAF Nations League, leaving them at the bottom of Group C. Environment & Courts: A Supreme Court Rosewood Exuma ruling could set a benchmark for how future environmental approvals and impact assessments are handled, former Environment Minister Romauld Ferreira said. Economy & Credit: S&P reaffirmed the Bahamas’ BB- rating with a stable outlook, warning a downgrade could come within 12–18 months if growth and revenues slip or support for state enterprises rises. Governance & Housing: Govt and the union broke ground on the Patrick S. Bain Subdivision in New Providence, starting nine hurricane-proof homes. Local Tourism Leadership: Robert “Sandy” Sands returns as interim BHTA president after Jackson Weech was named Tourism Director General.

Cruise Industry Update: Carnival Corporation posted all-time highs in revenue, net income and yields, citing accelerating demand and stronger cost discipline, and said it’s already half booked for 2027 and off to a strong start for 2028. Tourism Leadership: Hotelier Jackson Weech was appointed Director General of the Ministry of Tourism effective Oct. 1. Public Safety on Beaches: A 60-year-old woman visiting from New York was rescued after being swept into rough surf at Cabbage Beach and trapped by a fence; lifeguards and witnesses helped pull her ashore. Environment & Development: Environment Minister Zane Lightbourne said Bahama Rock’s proposed aggregate excavation at former Bahamas Cement Company land remains at a standstill pending environmental review adjustments. Cabbage Beach Vendor Fallout: With an Oct. 1 relocation deadline approaching, some Cabbage Beach vendors say they still lack clear plans and fear lost income. Bahamas–U.S. Drug-Response Tension: Ambassador Wendall Jones and U.S. officials traded sharp remarks over claims of “rogue” DEA agents operating without permission, with both sides stressing sovereignty and the need to stop drug flow. Aviation Charges Debate: BACSWN says it will consult airspace users and push for fair, transparent, cost-related aviation meteorological fees tied to services. Sports: The Bahamas men’s team was thrashed 8–0 by Saint Martin in Concacaf Nations League C.