By Zns Bahamas

Copyright znsbahamas

The Abaco Business Outlook event took place last week at the Abaco Beach Club. Government officials, local business owners and residents were in attendance.

Among this year’s speakers was Abaco Chamber of Commerce President, Chantelle Sands who spoke about the need for the island’s air and sea ports to be overhauled.

“These are not just transport hubs, they are first impressions. They are out economic lifelines and if we want to boost tourism, strengthen logistics and attract new investments then our ports must be equipped to handle that growth efficiently and professionally,” she said.

The chamber president also emphasized the need for better healthcare on the island saying access is not enough. Sands told those in attendance, “we must have the resources, well equipped, well staffed facilities that give residents, visitors and second home owners confidence in their safety and well being.”

Since the passage of Hurricane Dorian in 2019 housing has been an ongoing issue. According to Sands too many families are struggling to find affordable housing. She said, “government cannot bear this burden alone. The private sector must be involved through investment,, creative financing and partnerships for new developments. We cannot grow Abaco if people have no where to live.”