The Tribune

By JADE RUSSELL

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIANS have weighed in on the benefits of local government in The Bahamas, according to a survey initiated by advocacy group Rise Bahamas.

The national survey was conducted by the market research firm Public Domain, which assisted Rise Bahamas’ exploration of national awareness and support of local government in the country.

According to a press release issued by the local NGO, the survey consisted of 979 residents in The Bahamas that was conducted between February 17th and April 11th, 2022.

Of those surveyed, 82 percent were registered voters.

Rise Bahamas founder Terneille Burrows, believes the findings are an indication that there is a need for a more in depth and sustained national dialogue.

“With one third of Bahamians unaware of local government, we were still able to see healthy support in several areas,” she said. “As more people become more familiar with the objectives through our Imagine Local Government Campaign, we anticipate greater support.”

The survey was inclusive of a series of questions.

It showed 53 percent respondents agreed New Providence would benefit from local government.

The awareness of local government amongst Bahamians was also tested in the survey with the findings showing 66 percent of the respondents were aware of local government.

The survey also showed 59 percent of the respondents believe local government increases opportunities for citizen participation along with 59 percent of respondents of the view that local government makes government more efficient and community focused.

Ms Burrows said: “We hope that the relevant stakeholders will take into account these findings and consider building on the work that has already been done.”

In an interview with The Tribune, Ms Burrows said during the course of the research she was invited to meet with the advisory committee for local government in New Providence.

However, months later she realised the report of the findings was released but never made it to Parliament. She consulted with their board and they decided to put together a campaign to raise greater public awareness around Local Government.

This is where the “Imagine Local Government” campaign was born, she said.

“In April 2022, Rise Bahamas launched their campaign because they believe that community-specific governance will bring the government ‘closer to the people.’ Additionally, the capital would benefit from a layer of governance below the Central Government. Furthermore, the Family Island local government entities already operating, could use strengthening,” Rise Bahamas’ press release said.

Rise Bahamas, along with its campaign partners, The Organization for Responsible Governance (ORG) and One Bahamas have committed their efforts to facilitating public awareness of the benefits of local government.