The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB, the Bank) has launched the Eleventh Cycle of its Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF 11) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, providing financing of approximately US$4 million over four years to improve access to essential services, strengthen community infrastructure and expand livelihood opportunities.  

The new cycle will support investments that respond to community needs, with more than 700 Vincentians expected to benefit from improved road access and community infrastructure. Planned works include the construction of footpaths, stairs, drainage systems and retaining walls in Golden Vale and Acres Hill, alongside improvements to education infrastructure such as Canouan Primary School. These investments aim to address longstanding access challenges and strengthen facilities serving residents on the mainland and in the Grenadines.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Martin Baptiste, Head of the Social Sector Division at CDB, said, “This investment…represents far more than financing. Through this new cycle, we can help equip more students with the skills they need to succeed, expand access to community-driven economic opportunities and essential services, and create pathways for individuals and families to improve their livelihoods.”

BNTF 11 builds on practical investments in education and community access across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Previous projects include the extension and rehabilitation of Park Hill Government School, Calliaqua Anglican School and New Grounds Government School; early childhood development centres in Richland Park and Biabou; and road and footpath improvements in Orange Hill, Keartons Hill and Roseau–Walvaroo. Together, these projects demonstrate the programme’s focus on solutions that support everyday community life.

The Honourable Israel Bruce, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines emphasised the importance of translating investment into meaningful improvements for residents.

"Development must ultimately be measured by the difference it makes in people’s lives. It is measured by the quality of the facilities available to our children, the opportunities afforded to our young people, the capacity of our farmers to sustain their livelihoods, and the ability of our communities to withstand and recover from adversity," he said.

The launch and subsequent workshop brought together government representatives, implementing agencies, development partners and community stakeholders to align priorities and strengthen programme delivery. Discussions focused on implementation strategies and the need to protect essential services, education and livelihoods from climate-related disruption.

As CDB’s flagship poverty-reduction programme, BNTF places community participation at the centre of project development. Through BNTF 11, the Bank will continue working with the Government and communities of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to turn locally identified needs into investments that improve access, expand opportunity and strengthen resilience.

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Photo caption: Dr. Martin Baptiste, Head, Social Sector Division, Caribbean Development Bank. (Photo: NBC Radio, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)