BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Bahamas has received landmark approval for a comprehensive water security initiative that will transform the nation’s climate resilience capabilities. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has sanctioned the Climate Resilience of the Water Sector in The Bahamas project, representing a strategic partnership between the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Bahamian government, and the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC).
With total funding of $65.2 million, the project combines a GCF grant of $37.506 million, a GCF concessional loan of $12.546 million, a CDB loan of $12.546 million, and a $2.602 million in-kind contribution from WSC. This financial package will address the archipelago’s escalating vulnerability to climate-related water challenges through infrastructure modernization and governance strengthening.
As one of the world’s most climate-sensitive Small Island Developing States, The Bahamas faces existential threats to its freshwater resources. With 83% of its landmass lying less than five meters above sea level, the nation contends with hurricane damage, seven-meter storm surges, prolonged droughts, and saltwater intrusion into its limited groundwater reserves. The country’s heavy reliance on expensive desalination has further strained utility operations amid frequent service disruptions.
The initiative will deploy comprehensive interventions across six islands: New Providence, South Andros, Mangrove Cay, North and Central Andros, Abaco, and Acklins. Key components include climate-resilient wellfields, storm-proof pumping stations, expanded water storage capacity, enhanced system connectivity, and targeted water loss reduction measures.
L. O’Reilly Lewis, CDB’s Director of Projects, described the investment as “a transformational opportunity for The Bahamas that combines robust climate-resilient infrastructure with strengthened governance and data-driven management to safeguard water security for generations to come.”
Kristin Lang, Director of GCF’s Latin America and Caribbean Department, emphasized that this marks GCF’s first single-country project in The Bahamas, demonstrating commitment to “strengthening country-owned solutions where climate risks are highest.” The project aligns directly with CDB’s Strategic Plan 2026-2035, prioritizing climate action and resilient infrastructure as central to regional transformation.
Upon completion, the initiative will directly benefit over 215,000 residents while bolstering national climate resilience for an additional 199,000 people, creating a more sustainable water future for the vulnerable island nation.