—Strategic Shift Promises Enhanced Support for Sustainable Development Across the Region
—says CDB President

WITH a renewed focus on delivering transformation across all processes, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) recently unveiled its ‘rebirth’ with a robust agenda to address the financial needs of the region, further supporting sustainable development.
“We will practise excellence in each stage of every process – whether we are providing policy advice, appraising and implementing projects in our countries or formulating country- engagement strategies. Excellence will be our hallmark,” CDB President Daniel Best, told a recent news conference.
He highlighted that the “Rebirth” represents more than just a strategic shift—it marks a renewed dedication to the Caribbean people, emphasising excellence in policy formulation, project implementation and country-engagement strategies.
“Amid rising geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, the leadership of [the] CDB is committed to positioning the institution as a driving force for positive change,” Best stressed.
“Our Region faces uncertainties that we have never before contemplated. Geopolitical tensions arising from inward-looking or nationalistic policies have the potential to stymie trade and growth, and the withdrawal of financial aid and technical co-operation places our already-vulnerable populations at even greater risk,” Best explained.

The CDB has been engaging in regional discussions to better understand the scale and the scope of the challenges confronting borrowing member states and shareholders.
“The bank recognises that it cannot address the Region’s issues by itself, and so, partnerships and resource mobilisation will be key tools in our arsenal.
“In this regard, the bank has concluded we concluded [sic] negotiations with our contributors for the replenishment of our largest pool of concessional resources, our Special Development Fund.
A $460 million programme for the 11th cycle of the fund was agreed upon.

This historic $460-million programme comprises grants and concessional loans that will see the bank play an even greater role in addressing poverty alleviation and human development across our Borrowing Member Countries.
“A key aspect of the fund is its increased emphasis on climate resilience through stepped-up support for adaptation and mitigation measures. Guided by the principles of gender equality, good governance and innovation, the fund will further advance regional co-operation, integration, and digitalisation, accelerating our collective progress towards a robust and sustainable future,” Best explained.

Since 1984, the fund has invested over $2.1 billion in social development across the Caribbean, directly improving quality of life. Over the past decade, more than 343,000 students gained better educational opportunities; over 11,100 agricultural workers were trained in modern production techniques; nearly 931,000 people benefitted from upgraded road networks and over 94,000 households gained access to improved water and sanitation services.

“CDB’s goal is to see the region thriving, with vibrant, sustainable economies and societies where all Caribbean people can succeed. Our people deserve nothing less than bold, decisive action. CDB stands ready to partner with governments, private sector actors, and development institutions to build a stronger, more resilient Caribbean,” Best said.