Calls For Inclusion Take Center Stage AT GB Business Outlook

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GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – The room was filled with business owners and key stakeholders at the Grand Bahama Business Outlook on Thursday.

The audience heard from the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish, Director of Information Security at the Cable Bahamas Group of Companies Shakera Johnson, and Chief Financial Officer at Doctors Hospital Dennis Deveaux.

The keynote speaker, Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey, told attendees that the island is in the midst of a transformational journey.

She reiterated the Prime Minister’s recent comments on the Grand Lucayan Resort, noting the government’s focus on securing a developer who will embrace Grand Bahama’s culture while creating a world-class brand.

Moxey also highlighted the Grand Bahama International Airport, saying that once completed, it will fully meet the needs of the island’s expanding resort footprint.

During the minister’s Q&A session, Loren Madu, owner of Freeport Jewellers, raised concerns about being denied the opportunity to open a business at Carnival’s Celebration Key despite being in business for over 50 years. Madu claims she and several other Grand Bahama business owners were overlooked while opportunities were granted to outsiders.

Executive Director of the Grand Bahama, Rupert Hayward, also brought remarks. His topic: taking advantage of unparalleled opportunities and building a model that benefits all Grand Bahama stakeholders.

Hayward focused on current projects, admitting that while progress is being made, the island’s recovery is taking too long.

He says collaboration with investors continues, but more work is needed for long-term growth.

When asked about the current relationship between the government and the GBPA, Hayward described it as a work in progress. Hayward was also asked who is responsible for the decline of the city of Freeport.