The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

The Government has partnered with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on a Sustainable Development Plan for Andros, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, incorporating a bid to measure the economic value of the island’s ecosystems.

The project involves a $600,000 grant for the Bahamas to carry out four major activities, Mr Davis said at the Andros Business Outlook.

“This project will serve as a pilot project for all other development Master Plans throughout the Bahamas. This project augments the work which is ongoing for the National Development Plan,” said Mr Davis.

Activities under the project include the measurement of the economic value of Andros’s ecosystem services, inclusive of its coastal and marine ecosystems, pine forests, mangroves, seagrass beds and tidal creeks – all of the natural areas.

It also calls for the creation of realistic development scenarios in consultation with Androsians. The project will seek an assessment of alternative development scenarios for Andros, and the development of a proposal for a viable physical development plan that maximises the economic value of the islands’ natural capital.

Mr Davis said Androsians have expressed the need for business development support in Andros, and ensuring the private sector’s interaction with government was as effective and efficient as possible.

“We must look at these issues closely and, as part of a development plan, devise the strategy to ensure that the business environment is better, not just for Nassau, but for our Family Islands also,” Mr Davis said.

“An issue that is particularly pertinent to Andros is the Crown land grant system, as so much of Andros’ land resources are owned by the state. Therefore, we must examine how to make the process smoother and more transparent,” he added.

“Businesses also expressed concern about the lack of funding for their ventures, and the effects on their businesses from poor infrastructure, inclusive of reliable running water. The community sought assistance with the organisation of viable cooperatives and societies so that Androsians can more effectively pool their resources to engage in bigger enterprises.

“The community also recognised that there must be more value added to the products being generated from Andros, so that a better livelihood could be gained from the natural resources of the island. This was true of the spongemen, the fishermen and those who worked with the agriculture products.”