With no electricity or generator supply, small businesses in and around the community said that the aftermath of hurricane Matthew has left them devastated but not discouraged.

In the days that immediately followed hurricane Matthew, small business owners and operators have remained optimistic about rebuilding and getting back to a state of normalcy.

Although many barber shops, beauty salons and community convenience stores are still closed because of hurricane Matthew and the lack of power supply, those that have opened post Matthew maintained that they are doing their best to get back to normal.

“We understand that BPL is doing all that they can to turn our lights on, and it is frustrating but we are waiting patiently” one small business owner stated, who wished to remain anonymous.

A local mom n’ pop convenience store also without power, noted that electricity has hampered operations; and there has been some loss of revenue; however, they know that they will recover from the storm.

Owner and operator of Johnson’s Barber shop Eleazor Johnson, indicated that electricity was lost at his establishment a day before hurricane Matthew pummeled the island causing major damage. And that at present both of his establishments are without electricity.

“We have been without electricity for eight days.”

“We cannot do any business because we are out of water our water goes with electricity” Mr. Johnson said.

Along with not having any electrical supply, Mr. Johnson also stated that his Yamacraw location roof was also extensively damaged causing water to leak into the store.

However, he applauded the government for its efforts.

“The government is doing the best, but if we had assistance from the other Caribbean islands and the U.S (man power) like in times past, we may be further along; however, they too were hit by the hurricane and unable to assist us.” he said.

When prompted about the loss of revenue, Mr. Johnson stated that expected loss had occurred beyond the establishment’s control.

“We have two stores, and we have lost a lot of money, staff are unable to do anything it is beyond our control.”

However, Mr. Johnson, like many other small business owners are very optimistic that in time things will be back to normal as they patiently wait for Bahamas Power and Light to restore power to them.