The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) community is grieving the passing of its fifth President, Dr. William Warren Smith, who died on January 30, 2026. The distinguished Jamaican development practitioner led the regional financial institution from 2011 to 2021, steering it through a decade of significant global and regional challenges.
Dr. Smith’s transformative leadership saw CDB strengthen its position as a crucial partner for Caribbean nations, particularly in mobilizing resources for sustainable growth and resilience building. His presidency emphasized climate resilience, disaster risk management, and innovative financing mechanisms that enabled Caribbean states to better withstand natural disasters and external economic shocks.
Beyond his technical contributions, Dr. Smith was remembered as a principled leader who championed good governance, sound economic management, and institutional strengthening as foundations for inclusive development. Current CDB President Daniel M. Best described his predecessor as “a mentor and guide” who demanded excellence while maintaining an unwavering belief in the Bank’s regional mission.
Dr. Smith’s service earned him numerous honors, including Jamaica’s Order of Distinction (Commander Class). The Bank announced plans to work with his family on arrangements to celebrate his life and contributions, with a condolence book available at its Wildey Headquarters starting February 2, 2026.
The CDB leadership extended heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Smith’s wife, family, and colleagues, recognizing his legacy as both an institutional builder and a dedicated advocate for Caribbean development.