The Inter-American Development Bank has released a comprehensive Damage and Loss Assessment (DALA) report outlining the effects and impacts of Hurricane Dorian, with key recommendations made for a sustainable recovery for The Bahamas.
Examining various sectors of the Bahamian economy, the DALA provides an overview of the severity of damage left in the wake of the 2019 category 5 hurricane, with specific emphasis on the islands of Grand Bahama and Abaco.
“The Bahamas has experienced an unprecedented natural catastrophe that requires long-term solutions and efforts that can return these islands to a position where they can thrive once again,” said Bahamas Country Manager Daniella Marquis. “Right now, there is an opportunity to rebuild to an even higher standard that will position the country to be even more resilient to future disasters that are beyond its control. The Inter-American Development Bank is proud to commit our efforts and provide this report that details the successful reconstruction of these communities, businesses and lives that have been affected by this hurricane.
“We understand that reconstruction after major disasters is a complex undertaking that may require a multi-year/multi-stakeholder approach and we look forward to advancing this rebuild with the Government of The Bahamas in a continued partnership that will strengthen the resilience of this nation against natural disasters.”
The report estimated damage of around $2.5 billion, of which 9 percent is public and 91 percent is private. Abaco suffered 87 percent of the damage and Grand Bahama accounts for 13 percent of the damage. The DALA is the culmination of efforts between the IDB, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and The Bahamas Government. It follows field visits by an IDB team in collaboration with partners to the affected areas to assess the damage.
The 218-page document presents detailed lessons learned from Hurricane Dorian and proposes a framework for solutions-based policies to aid in the rebuild.
“It is paramount for The Government of The Bahamas to always ensure that our people and our communities are secure,” said K. Peter Turnquest, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. “We have an opportunity ahead, using evidenced-based solutions like those presented in this report, to rebuild our infrastructure so that it complements our communities of today and our communities of the future.”
“We are dedicated to maximizing this partnership with the IDB and continuing our work to uniquely position this nation to be even stronger in the face of any challenge that may arise.”
The report outlined that given the magnitude of this event, the reconstruction efforts is expected to last many years and will require major assistance from financing institutions.
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The Inter-American Development Bank is devoted to improving lives. Established in 1959, the IDB is a leading source of long-term financing for economic, social and institutional development in Latin America and the Caribbean. The IDB also conducts cutting-edge research and provides policy advice, technical assistance and training to public and private sector clients throughout the region.
