NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The National Development Plan transcends politics and is vital for the country’s growth, as noted by politicians from both sides of the aisle, who point out that the country’s progress is often hindered by short-term political cycles and shifting priorities.
The NDP, first formulated under the Christie administration, represented the first-ever non-partisan, coordinated effort to plan the nation’s development systematically using empirical data and analysis. This plan was labeled “Vision 2040.” The Davis administration has re-appointed the National Development Plan Committee. A discussion forum on the National Development Plan was recently held at Island House
Daniela Carrera Marquis, the country representative for the IDB group in The Bahamas, noted that a global challenge with national development plans is securing consistent buy-in from citizens and avoiding the politicization of such plans. She noted that the IDB shares the vision and goals outlined in Vision 2040.
“It’s not just a plan but a promise for future generations of a sustainable and prosperous Bahamas,” she said.
Felix Stubbs, Chairman of the National Development Plan Secretariat, noted that while the plan started in 2014, a decade later, it still faces execution challenges. He described the recent workshop as a pivotal moment, allowing stakeholders to delve into the inhibitors impeding progress and seek solutions. “The goal is not just to diagnose but to prescribe factual remedies to propel us forward,” Stubbs said.
Free National Movement Leader Michael Pintard stated: “Tribalism has unfortunately hampered national growth and development. The National Development Plan seeks to set a backdrop against which political parties can formulate their plans.”
Pintard emphasized that no single political organization has the complete blueprint for transforming the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. “All of us have some answers that can make a difference in improving the lives of Bahamians,” he added.
Pintard acknowledged the Free National Movement’s commitment to the development, promotion, and implementation of this plan, stressing the importance of a consultative process involving all stakeholders. He emphasized the need for sustainable growth in The Bahamas and the importance of legislation to guard against corruption.
Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis highlighted the need for economic diversification, stating: “While tourism will always be a cornerstone of our economic landscape, we must strive to get more value out of this sector while also reducing our dependence on it. This involves developing other industries such as financial services, agriculture, and the creative arts.”
Halkitis also emphasized the importance of food security, stating that it is not just a matter of national pride but of sustainability. He said: “We must recognize that the aspirations outlined in Vision 2040 can only be realized through decisive and sustained action. Our greatest threat is not the lack of talent or will among our people but the risk of our progress being hampered by short-term political cycles and shifting priorities. To secure our future, we must rise above the limitations of electoral terms and commit to a long-term vision that transcends politics.”
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