NASSAU, BAHAMAS — President of the Exuma Chamber of Commerce Ehren Hanna is backing the proposed Rosewood development at Sampson Cay in the Exumas, calling the more than $200 million investment a rare chance to reshape the island chain’s economic future while creating hundreds of jobs for residents.
Hanna said the project being undertaken by the Yntegra Group- a Florida-based real estate and hospitality investment firm- represents a “transformative private investment” with the potential to “shape our economic future for generations,” noting that developments of such scale are uncommon in Exuma. He emphasized that the proposal is expected to generate more than 500 direct jobs during construction and operations, creating opportunities for Bahamians to build careers at home rather than relocating.
“This project represents a transformative private investment of more than $200 million into our island chain. Developments of this scale do not come often, and when they do, they carry the potential to shape our economic future for generations. Most importantly, this proposal is anticipated to create over 500 direct jobs during construction and operations. These are opportunities for our sons and daughters, for skilled tradesmen and women, for hospitality professionals, and for young people seeking meaningful careers without having to leave home,” Hanna stated.
Hanna also highlighted the broader business impact, saying the development would create a “significant” economic ripple effect for entrepreneurs and small businesses across sectors including construction, landscaping, transportation, marine services, and professional consulting.
According to Hanna, the Chamber has secured commitments from developers to prioritize local participation, including routing Requests for Proposals through the Chamber so Exuma-based companies receive first notice and consideration, while ensuring qualified non-member businesses are not excluded.
“The Chamber has engaged in constructive dialogue with the developers to ensure that Exuma residents and Exuma-based businesses are given first preference for these opportunities wherever possible. We have received a clear commitment that Requests for Proposals will be routed through the Chamber so that our members receive first notice and priority consideration. Additionally, even businesses that are not currently members of the Chamber will have the opportunity to be recommended, ensuring that qualified Exuma
businesses are not left behind. He described the involvement of the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts brand as especially important, citing its global reputation for luxury hospitality and responsible corporate citizenship, and its ability to deliver world-class experiences while respecting local culture and the environment. Hanna said developers have demonstrated transparency by obtaining approvals, environmental clearances, and engaging the public, calling that approach essential to building a partnership with the community,” Hanna stated.
While acknowledging ongoing opposition, he said the Chamber respects the dialogue and hopes disputes can be resolved amicably, stressing that growth in Exuma must be “thoughtful, responsible, and inclusive” and should strengthen — not diminish — the islands’ character.
His comments come as the Yntegra Group recently unveiled scaled-back plans for the project, including reductions in dock size, dredging, and overall density aimed at limiting environmental impact. The Yntegra Group recently announced the appointment of XCO₂, an internationally recognized sustainability and climate advisory firm, as its strategic sustainability partner for the Sampson Cay development.
