NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Housing Minister Keith Bell warned that the housing crisis in the Bahamas is “one of the greatest social and economic challenges of our time,” urging contractors to take an active role in delivering safe, affordable, and high-quality homes for Bahamian families.
“The dream of owning a home is the main driver of pain for too many men and women. As minister, I see this every day. It is the greatest social and economic challenge of our time,” Bell said, highlighting rising rents and the difficulty many young families face in finding stable housing.
Since coming into office in 2021, Bell said the government has taken decisive action to address the crisis. “We restarted the Affordable Home Program, expanded our partnerships, and we are committed to delivering homes for persons,” he said. But he warned that government policy alone is not enough. “Ambitious housing programs, public-private partnerships, and direct construction all depend on one critical factor: the skill and professionalism of all the contractors. If we are to develop homes that the Bahamians can afford and trust, then we must renew their capability in the industry while well-trained, well-regulated, and committed to excellence.”
Speaking at a meeting of the Bahamas Contractors Association (BCA), Bell praised the organization for offering instruction in contracts, procurement, building codes, project management, safety, and cost-benefit analysis. “These are not simply academic topics to be ticked off in a classroom. They are the living, breathing disciplines that shape whether a project succeeds or fails,” he said. He emphasized that these skills protect both contractors and clients, ensuring homes are built on time, on budget, and to high safety standards.
Minister Bell also underscored the need for innovation and climate-resilient construction. Citing the devastation of Hurricane Dorian, he warned that traditional building methods alone cannot withstand the growing threats of stronger storms and rising seas. “We must be guided by science, engineers, and by knowledge. Innovation is not something to fear but something to embrace,” he said, urging contractors to adopt modern building systems and materials.
“We must build faster, build stronger, build smarter, and most importantly, build more quality. Because every wall raised, every roof secured brings us one step closer to solving the housing crisis,” Minister Bell concluded. He encouraged contractors to continue developing their skills, embrace new technologies, and invest in excellence—not just for the success of their projects, but for the well-being of families across the Bahamas.
