FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas — Minister for Grand Bahama, Hon. Ginger Moxey pointed out that this year’s theme for Diplomatic Week – “climate, trade and cultural diplomacy” aligns with key priorities of the government’s ongoing efforts to recover, rebuild and revolutionize Grand Bahama Island and The Bahamas.

The Grand Bahama Minister was among the speakers at the opening of Diplomatic Week at Grand Lucayan resort, November 5, 2024.  The Conference, which has brought together Bahamian Ambassadors and Diplomats from throughout the region and around the world runs until Friday, November 8, 2024.

Minister Moxey gave delegates a glimpse into prospects for Grand Bahama, which she said will take the second city in an upward trajectory, with over two billion dollars in investments.  This substantial investment for Grand Bahama includes the $665M Grand Bahama Shipyard project; $600M Celebration Key Cruise Port; $80M RCCL/MSC/ITM Cruise Port; $100M Liwathon (South Riding Point) Terminal; and the $210M Freeport Health Campus.

In fact, Minister Moxey noted that with so many projects on the horizon for Grand Bahama, it prompted the creation of the “WelComing Home” initiative, which encourages the Grand Bahama diaspora, and those looking for an island that combines the city and island appeal, to return home.

For Grand Bahama Island specifically, Minister Moxey revealed that the government is focused on Innovation and Sustainability through collaborations; and Diplomatic Week 2024 centers around key planks in the fulfillment of many of the commitments made in ‘the Blueprint for Change.’

Minister Moxey said the administration has also embarked on an initiative called Innovate242, where she serves as Cabinet Co-Chair, along with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.  

“Innovate242 is created to establish The Bahamas as the center of innovation for the Caribbean, and for Grand Bahama Island to become the ‘Center for Sustainability,'” explained Minister Moxey.  “Its four pillars include digital nomads, tech campuses, incubators, and an innovation fund.  

“I cannot overlook our international partnerships with organizations like Sister Cities International.  In the aftermath of Dorian, our Sister Cities partnered to send much-needed relief to Grand Bahama.  To date, 10 Sister City relationships have been established with The Bahamas.  These relationships open doors to opportunities in business, tourism, cultural, educational, and humanitarian exchanges.”

On the trade and culture front, Minister Moxey told delegates that her Ministry will align both trade and culture with the development of an Afro-Caribbean Marketplace and Logistics Center, representing 54 African countries, 20 Caribbean countries and 16 islands of The Bahamas that will not only serve as a tourist attraction to cater to the six million visitors to the island by fourth quarter 2027, but also the catalyst for extensive trade between Africa and the Caribbean.  

In order to accomplish this goal, the Grand Bahama Minister said the government signed a Project Preparation Facility for the Afro-Caribbean Marketplace with Afreximbank in June of this year, at the historical 31st Afreximbank AGM held in Nassau. 

“Today, we are fully engaged in this phase of the project, having recently held meetings with Afreximbank, Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), the African Union, Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), including creative industry and cultural ministers from Africa and the Caribbean,” said Minister Moxey.  “I look forward to working with many of you as we realize this game-changing opportunity for our country and for our region.”

Minister Moxey charged attending diplomats that as they gather to strengthen relationships, celebrate shared values, and explore new avenues for collaboration on the global stage, it is her hope that the hospitality and vibrant spirit of the residents of Grand Bahama inspire productive discussions and fruitful partnerships that will foster positive change, not only for The Bahamas, but also for the wider region and the world.