The Government of the Virgin Islands has awarded a $3.79 million contract to Connect Enterprises Limited for Phase 2 of the Cane Garden Bay Sewerage Network Project, marking a significant step in the area’s long-overdue infrastructure upgrades.

The contract, valued at $3,785,274.55, covers the installation of approximately 4,500 linear feet of gravity sewer lines and pumping mains. It also includes the construction of a main pump station next to the newly built wastewater treatment plant, as well as three smaller pump stations and two lift stations. The project aims to modernize Cane Garden Bay’s wastewater management system, addressing long-standing sanitation and environmental concerns.

Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley underscored the project’s importance, calling it a “critical investment” in the area’s infrastructure. “This project will significantly improve sanitation and environmental conditions, paving the way for sustainable development and economic growth in Cane Garden Bay,” he stated.

Minister for Works Hon. Kye M. Rymer echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the project’s role in enhancing public health and protecting the environment. “The implementation of the sewer network is a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure,” Rymer said. “This long-awaited upgrade will bring lasting benefits to the community.”

Also present at the contract signing was Hon. Melvin Turnbull, Representative for the Second Electoral District, who expressed gratitude to the government on behalf of his constituents. “I am elated that this critical phase of the project is about to commence,” he said. “This has been a long time coming, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the people of Cane Garden Bay.”

Connect Enterprises Limited, a Virgin Islands-based company, will lead the construction efforts. Company representative Ms. Chastity George said the firm is honored to be part of the initiative. “We are committed to delivering a high-quality sewer network that meets the needs of the community,” George stated. “We look forward to working alongside the government and residents to bring this project to fruition.”

The project will include the installation of 42 manholes, facilitating efficient sewage conveyance. Upon completion, the road and adjacent sidewalks damaged during construction will be fully restored, ensuring minimal long-term disruption to the community.

Cuba has taken a bold step onto the global stage by joining BRICS as a partner country, a move that could shift economic and political dynamics in Latin America and beyond. This status, granted following the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024, allows Cuba to engage with the group’s initiatives and benefit from its economic influence without holding full membership. The decision underscores BRICS’ expanding reach as it seeks to counterbalance Western financial institutions and foster stronger ties among developing nations.

Cuba was among 13 nations invited to become BRICS partner countries, signalling the bloc’s continued efforts to reshape global economic structures. While not yet a full member, Cuba’s closer alignment with BRICS could bring significant financial relief by opening avenues for investment and trade. The group’s economic powerhouses—China, India, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa—could provide much-needed capital to revitalise Cuba’s struggling economy, potentially helping the island navigate long-standing US sanctions.

One of the most immediate benefits for Cuba would be increased trade opportunities. With major BRICS economies looking to expand their influence, Cuba stands to gain from enhanced cooperation in key sectors such as energy, technology, and agriculture. China and Russia, already close allies of Havana, are expected to deepen their economic engagement, potentially reducing Cuba’s dependence on traditional trading partners. Additionally, BRICS’ efforts to develop alternative financial systems independent of the US dollar could provide Cuba with new mechanisms to bypass US-imposed restrictions.

For BRICS, Cuba’s inclusion strengthens its foothold in Latin America. With Brazil already a member, bringing Cuba into the fold reinforces the bloc’s presence in the region and challenges the influence of Western institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. Cuba’s longstanding role in promoting South-South cooperation aligns with BRICS’ mission to offer developing nations an alternative to Western-led economic structures.

However, Cuba’s partnership with BRICS is not without risks. Increased economic ties with the bloc could escalate tensions with the United States, which has maintained a decades-long embargo against Cuba. Washington may view this development as a strategic challenge, potentially leading to stricter sanctions or diplomatic countermeasures. Such actions could complicate Cuba’s economic recovery, particularly if the anticipated benefits of BRICS integration take time to materialise.

Domestically, BRICS engagement could push Cuba towards economic reforms. While Havana is unlikely to abandon its socialist model, the need to attract foreign investment may prompt shifts towards market-friendly policies, similar to those adopted by China and Vietnam. BRICS-backed projects could modernise Cuba’s infrastructure, boost its tourism industry, and unlock the potential of its key mineral exports, including nickel and cobalt. The country also possesses offshore oil reserves, though exploration has so far been limited.

Despite the opportunities, challenges remain. Unlike resource-rich nations such as Saudi Arabia or the UAE, which were among those invited to join BRICS as full members, Cuba’s economic contributions to the bloc may be limited. The island continues to grapple with inflation, supply shortages, and structural inefficiencies, raising questions about how effectively it can integrate into BRICS initiatives.

Ultimately, Cuba’s engagement with BRICS represents a strategic gamble—one that could provide economic relief and bolster the bloc’s influence in Latin America but also provoke resistance from the US and its allies. Success will depend on Cuba’s ability to leverage its new partnerships while navigating the geopolitical complexities that come with them.

The Sea Cow’s Bay Basketball Club, in collaboration with the BVI Olympic Committee, is set to host the MLK Jr. District 3×3 Basketball Tournament this Saturday, February 16,  at the Multipurpose Sports Complex. The event, which runs from 1 PM to 6 PM, will feature the U13 and U16 age groups, with teams from across the territory encouraged to participate.

This tournament provides an exciting opportunity for the youth of the BVI to showcase their basketball talent while honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The competition will see local teams from the District 3 (D3) and beyond battle it out in a fast-paced 3×3 format.

Public admission to the event is $2.00, and the registration deadline for all teams is February 13. Players can sign up by contacting Mr. Milton McLean at 542-0555.

In addition to the tournament, awards will be presented to the Champions in each division of the Holiday District Tournament, which was held in December.

The U17 category of the Holiday District Tournament saw the D3 team, made up of Jhustin Disla, Twari Samuel, and J’lun Ramirez, go undefeated, winning all four of their games to claim the title. Disla and D2’s Zion Phillip were named co-MVPs. In the U13 category, Money Jr., representing D7, with Steven Walters Jr., Zayden McIntosh, and Anthony Baker, also claimed victory, winning every game they played. Walters was named the MVP for his outstanding performance.

The MLK Jr. District 3×3 Tournament promises to be an action-packed event for basketball fans, with local talent set to shine on the court.

Whether you’re cheering for your local team or simply enjoying the sport, this tournament will be an excellent display of the BVI’s young basketball players and their commitment to the game.

Be sure to come out, support the teams, and enjoy the fast-paced action this weekend.