Daniel Best

As we look to the future of #Aid4Trade, we must not lose sight of its core purpose: improving people's lives. For the Caribbean, that means stronger climate resilience, enhanced food and energy security, greater innovation, and more inclusive economic opportunity. #Aid4Trade has an important role to play in that journey by helping countries build productive capacity, strengthen competitiveness and translate growth into lasting improvements for people and communities. This is the future we must work together to achieve. #A4TNext20 #TradeForDevelopment #CaribbeanTrade #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

🌐 Trade remains a critical driver of Caribbean growth, but our ability to compete in an increasingly complex global economy depends on more than what we produce. It requires modern infrastructure, strong institutions, investment in people, and deeper regional collaboration. 🤝Yesterday, @wto’s Global Review of Aid for Trade 2026, I welcomed the opportunity to meet with WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala @NOIweala and her team. I was also honoured to join fellow regional and international leaders for the Regional Spotlight on The Americas panel discussion. We examined how the Caribbean can strengthen its competitiveness, diversify exports, deepen regional integration, and position itself to seize emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing global trading environment. 📈 During the discussion, I highlighted three priorities that will be essential to advancing this agenda: scaling up investment in trade-enabling infrastructure, trade facilitation and digitalisation; expanding opportunities for MSMEs to participate in regional and global markets; and accelerating digital transformation and the growth of new services-based export opportunities. Additionally, I underscored the importance of climate resilience, the strategic use of public resources to mobilise private investment, and equipping our people with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving economic landscape. @Caribank we remain committed to working alongside our Borrowing Member Countries and development partners to advance this agenda. The investments we make today in resilience, competitiveness, and people will determine the Caribbean's place in the global economy for decades to come. View the full discussion 🔗: youtube.com/live/cqfhB-zvkt4 🤝On the margins of the event, I also had the opportunity to meet with WTO Deputy Director-General Johanna Hill and her team, and to engage with CARICOM Ambassadors representing Jamaica, Barbados, Dominica, The Bahamas, Haiti, and Belize. These discussions reinforced the importance of strong partnerships, regional coordination, and ensuring that Caribbean perspectives and priorities remain part of global trade and development conversations. #Aid4Trade #CaribbeanTrade #TradeCompetitiveness #StrongerInstitutions #RegionalCooperation #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

🌎 Five days in Bangkok. One shared commitment to the Caribbean’s future. Throughout the IMF and World Bank Fall Meetings, our CDB delegation has engaged with regional leaders, development partners and investors to advance the priorities of the Caribbean and other small, vulnerable states. As we close the week, five priorities stand out: expanding opportunities for our young people through technology and innovation; rethinking development finance; strengthening collaboration among development institutions; financing resilience before shocks occur; and ensuring vulnerable countries have a meaningful voice in the global financial system. 🤝 The opportunity now is to turn these priorities into progress. That means connecting partnerships and financing with investments that strengthen resilience, create opportunities and improve lives across our region. The global dialogue continues, and so does our work. Your CDB remains committed to advancing practical solutions, mobilising resources and building a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous Caribbean. #IMFWBGMeetings #DevelopmentFinance #InnovativeFinance #InclusiveGrowth #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

The Caribbean has lost one of its most distinctive voices. Slinger Francisco, known and loved as The Mighty Sparrow, understood the extraordinary power of music to tell our stories, challenge us, unite us and bring us joy. 🎤 For more than seven decades, Sparrow gave voice to the Caribbean with wit, rhythm, courage and an unrivalled gift for storytelling. His music gave generations a way to laugh, reflect on and celebrate who we are. As a lifelong lover of music, I have immense admiration for the artistry, musicianship and lyrical brilliance that made Sparrow such a singular talent. His work was unmistakably Caribbean, yet the humanity in his storytelling allowed it to travel far beyond our shores. On behalf of @Caribank, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones, and to the people of Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago. I also join Caribbean people at home and across the diaspora in mourning a true cultural giant. May his music continue to fill our homes and our hearts, and may his unmistakable voice forever remind us of the richness, wit and indomitable spirit of our Caribbean. Rest in perfect peace, Birdie.

🌎 Climate finance cannot only be about the commitments we make. It must be about whether countries can actually access financing and turn it into meaningful action. That was the message I shared at the @UN Solutions Dialogue on Climate Finance at the Climate Summit 2026. For the Caribbean, we are seeing what is possible when partners are willing to rethink how development finance works, from the 🇨🇦 Government of Canada’s USD 200 million portfolio credit guarantee to CDB, which will significantly expand our financing capacity, to the regional platform we are advancing with @theGCF to help countries move investment priorities into implementable projects. But access also requires listening. Earlier this year, we brought @FRLossandDamage directly together with our Borrowing Member Countries to better understand its application process. One workshop helped move the Caribbean from one proposal being prepared to 16. 🤝 Sometimes the solutions are not complicated. We simply need to ask countries what they need, bring the right people to the table and create the conditions for action. 💡 That is how we move climate finance from conversation to impact. #ClimateFinance #ClimateAction #GlobalPartnerships #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

Some moments in development are especially rewarding because you have had the privilege of seeing the journey from its earliest stages. 💧 The Jamaica Rural Water Supply Programme is one of those for me. The initial concept and discussions began taking shape during my time as @Caribank Director of Projects , so it was deeply gratifying to mark this important step towards implementation with the Government of Jamaica. It was a pleasure to share the occasion with Prime Minister The Most Honourable Dr. Andrew Holness (@AndrewHolnessJM) whose leadership and steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Jamaicans have been central to advancing this transformative initiative. His Government's strong focus on water security and resilient infrastructure has helped create the momentum and partnership necessary to bring this project to fruition. I must also recognise Honourable Matthew Samuda and Mr Omar Sweeney, whose determination, persistence, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in bringing us this far. Their efforts, together with the support of the many partners involved, have helped turn a shared vision into a tangible reality. At its heart, this is about something very simple but fundamental: improving people’s lives. Through a US$36 million investment, six water-supply schemes across five parishes will be developed or upgraded, expanding access to reliable, potable water for more than 45,000 people. For me, this occasion was also another reminder of the enduring partnership between Jamaica and the Caribbean Development Bank, and of what sustained collaboration can achieve. I look forward to seeing the programme move from plans and infrastructure to what matters most: reliable water in homes and communities, greater opportunity, and a better quality of life for the people it is intended to serve. #WaterSecurity #ClimateResilience #Jamaica #SustainableDevelopment #OurCDB

🌎For the Caribbean, uncertainty is no longer an occasional disruption. It is the reality in which our governments, businesses, and people must now plan and prosper. Climate risk, economic volatility, geopolitical shifts, and rapid technological change are reshaping the landscape in which we operate. Resilience cannot be occasional: it must be built into the institutions that serve our people, the businesses that drive our economies, and the systems that underpin our development. That was the core of my message as the Keynote Speaker at this year’s Environmental, Social, and Governance Conference hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago (@amchamtt) under the theme: “Navigating Uncertainty: Sustainability, Resilience & the Future of Business.” At @Caribank, we believe the E, the S and the G are not separate conversations. These principles are embedded in how we finance projects, manage risk, strengthen institutions, advance gender-responsive development, and support climate resilience across our region. 🤝Resilience is also a shared responsibility. It requires governments, businesses, development institutions, and communities to work together to turn uncertainty into an opportunity for innovation, investment, and sustainable growth. Our task is not to eliminate uncertainty. It is to build economies and institutions resilient enough to thrive despite it. I thank AMCHAM Trinidad and Tobago for convening this important conversation. I look forward to the ideas, partnerships, and actions that emerge from the conference. #AMCHAMTT #ESG2026 #ESG #Sustainability #Resilience #FutureOfBusiness #BusinessLeadership

📊 Evidence matters. It shapes better decisions, strengthens accountability, and helps us make smarter development investments. This past week, we launched the inaugural Caribbean Evaluation Space, bringing together evaluators, policymakers, development partners, and emerging leaders to share knowledge, challenge thinking, and strengthen how we understand what works in our region. For @Caribank, evaluation is not simply about accountability. It is about learning, adapting, and improving so that our development investments deliver greater impact for Caribbean people. As we build a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable Caribbean, we must continue to strengthen a culture of evidence and equip the next generation to carry it forward. 🔗 Learn more: bit.ly/4zZ0VWK #CEvalSpace2026 #StrongerInstitutions #EvaluationMatters #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

🤝 Strong partnerships create lasting impact. It was a pleasure to join the Small Business Association of Barbados @SBAofBarbados government representatives, entrepreneurs, and regional stakeholders for the launch of Reengineering MSMEs for Growth: Adoption and Application of Digital Solutions to Build Resilience and Global Competitiveness — a regional initiative funded by @Caribank to help Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) embrace digital solutions, build resilience, and compete in an evolving global economy. Through this partnership, a minimum of 150 businesses across Barbados 🇧🇧, Dominica 🇩🇲, Grenada 🇬🇩, Saint Lucia 🇱🇨, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 🇻🇨 will receive support, including grant funding and capacity building, to strengthen their digital capabilities and accelerate growth. This is development partnership in action: bringing together finance, knowledge, technology, and local networks to turn opportunity into impact. Hearty congratulations to everyone who helped make this initiative possible. Together, we are investing in the people and businesses at the heart of the region’s private sector, empowering them to innovate, grow, and drive the Caribbean’s transformation. #PrivateSectorDevelopment #DevelopmentImpact #Entrepreneurship #Partnership #Innovation #OurCaribbean

I convey sincere sympathy to His Excellency President @ABDELAESPRIELLA the Government of Colombia, and the Colombian people following the tragic loss of life, injuries, and destruction caused by the devastating and powerful earthquake in Colombia. On behalf of the Caribbean Development Bank, I extend heartfelt condolences to the families mourning loved ones and to all communities affected by this disaster. As a valued member and partner of the Bank, Colombia continues to play an important role in strengthening cooperation between Latin America and the Caribbean and advancing our shared development agenda. Our thoughts are with those affected as well as response personnel and our CDB colleagues and partners, including CDB Governor Hon. Diego Alejandro Guevara Castañeda, Alternate Governor Ms. Claudia Marcela Martinez, Director Dr. Alba Nury Martinez Barrera, and Alternate Director Mr. Gerardo Romel Espitia Peña. In moments of profound loss, our shared humanity calls us to stand together. The people of Colombia are in our thoughts as they mourn, recover, and begin the difficult work of rebuilding. We stand with you. 🇨🇴 #Colombia #CaribbeanDevelopmentBank #CDB #RegionalCooperation

🤝Our region is strongest when we stand together and support one another. I am pleased to share that @Caribank's Board of Directors has approved a USD 1 million contribution to @AgendaCAF's Fund for the Recovery and Reconstruction of Venezuela. This support will assist relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts following the devastating earthquakes that struck the country on June 24, 2026. Venezuela is a longstanding member of the Bank and a country that has consistently and meaningfully supported the people and nations of the Caribbean over many decades. This contribution, made through CAF's recovery mechanism, reflects the strength of multilateral cooperation and our shared commitment to resilience, partnership, and regional solidarity. As Venezuela begins the difficult journey of rebuilding, we stand alongside its Government and people, reaffirming our support during this time of profound loss and recovery. Read the full statement: ow.ly/rSgC50Zyfk9

I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life following the sinking of the MV Barima and the immense suffering this disaster has brought to the people of Guyana. Guyana holds a special place in my heart as one of our member countries, and I know that this tragedy is being felt not only by the families directly affected, but by communities across the country, throughout our Caribbean and the entire Bank. As the search and rescue efforts continue, my thoughts remain with those who are still missing, and with the loved ones enduring the anguish of uncertainty. On behalf of the Caribbean Development Bank (@Caribank), I extend our deepest condolences to President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali (@presidentaligy), the Government and people of Guyana, and especially to the families who have suffered the loss of loved ones. We also hold in our thoughts those who survived this terrible incident, knowing that their journey to healing will be significant. In moments such as these, we ask for the compassion that defines our Caribbean people. I commend the extraordinary dedication of the emergency responders and others who have worked tirelessly in the face of heartbreaking circumstances. Their courage and selflessness reflect the very best of our region. The Bank stands in full solidarity with the people of Guyana and all those impacted during this time of profound grief and remains committed to supporting our member country with recovery efforts. May the memories of those who lost their lives be a source of comfort to their loved ones. 🙏🏽

🏙️ Resilient cities do more than withstand disruption; they create opportunity for all. At the OPEC Fund Development Forum in Vienna last week, I joined global leaders to discuss how we can build Cities of Opportunity that strengthen resilience, unlock human potential, and expand pathways to shared prosperity. For @Caribank, this begins with three priorities: 🔹 Investing in people – especially our youth. Stronger foundational education, expanded technical and vocational training, and digital skills are essential to preparing the next generation for a green and digital economy. 🔹 Protecting places through climate action. Resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, smarter planning, and coordinated action are critical to reducing risk, strengthening resilience, and safeguarding lives. 🔹 Powering opportunity through stronger institutions and inclusive finance. Better data, effective governance, and innovative financing can mobilise investment and deliver greater impact. 🌎 Across the Caribbean, where small island realities, climate vulnerability, and fiscal constraints intersect, these priorities are deeply connected. Development finance must evolve to match this complexity because citizens do not experience strategies—they experience outcomes. Success is measured not by the financing we approve, but by whether people have reliable services, greater economic opportunity, and stronger resilience to future shocks. As CDB advances its new Strategic Plan, we remain focused on helping to build communities where opportunity is inclusive, resilience is embedded, and every person has the chance to contribute, innovate, and thrive. My thanks to @TheOPECFund for convening this important dialogue as it marks 50 years of development cooperation. 🤝 The future of the Caribbean will be shaped by the opportunities we create today, and resilient cities will be central to that vision. #OPECFund50 #CitiesOfOpportunity #Resilience #SustainableDevelopment #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

Fatherhood is both a privilege and a responsibility – it calls us to lead with love, to guide with wisdom, and to nurture with patience. This Father’s Day, I celebrate the invaluable role that fathers and father figures play in shaping lives and strengthening communities. 💟 I am blessed to have had a father who lived a life of selfless sacrifice and kindness for his family and all those he encountered. And I miss him dearly. But through his example, and as a father myself, I am reminded daily that the lessons we pass on are not only for our children, but for the generations that follow. In every act of care, encouragement, and sacrifice, fathers help build the foundation of a brighter future. To the fathers of our region and beyond – those celebrated today and those no longer with us 🙏🏾– thank you. Happy Father’s Day! #Fatherhood #FathersDay #ThankYou

🌐On Day 2 of the Berlin Climate Mobility Forum, I was honoured to participate in the High-Level Panel on “Insuring Resilience – The Role of Climate Risk Insurance in Supporting Climate Mobility Decisions.” Regional development banks like @Caribank are uniquely positioned to build layered financial protection systems that connect sovereign risk management with resilience at the sector, community, and household levels. During the discussion, I highlighted how CDB is advancing this agenda by: 🔹 Supporting rapid post-disaster financing through CCRIF SPC 🔹 Extending insurance solutions into agriculture and livelihoods 🔹 Dedicating 40% of our Special Development Fund and 35% of Bank-wide financing to climate action 🔹 Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure – roads, schools, critical systems 🔹 Leveraging the Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, and the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage to blend grants, concessional finance, and risk transfer 🔹 Strengthening community and household resilience through social protection systems and climate-resilient livelihoods At CDB, we are committed to building end-to-end protection systems that help Caribbean nations absorb shocks, recover faster, and reduce risk over time—securing long-term resilience, while ensuring no one is left behind. @gccmobility @ccrif_pr #BerlinClimateMobilityForum #ClimateMobility #EnableAdaptationJourneys #CaribbeanDevelopment #ClimateAction #OurCDB

🤝 Resilience cannot be built for communities; it must be built with them. That was the central message of my remarks yesterday at the Berlin Climate Mobility Forum 2026, where I had the opportunity to share lessons from the Caribbean's experience with locally led adaptation and community resilience. 🌎 Across our region, climate change is a lived reality—hurricanes, floods, droughts, and coastal erosion continue to affect communities every year. Our experience has shown that resilience is strongest when community members understand the risks, have access to trusted information, and are empowered to shape solutions. Through initiatives such as @Caribank's Community Disaster Risk Reduction Fund and our work toward the Caribbean's first Multi-Country Locally Led Adaptation Programme, we are helping communities strengthen preparedness, improve early warning systems, and build climate-resilient futures. 👥 We are also investing in the people who make resilience possible. In partnership with @cdemacu, CDB launched accredited online courses in community engagement and proposal writing to equip practitioners, civil society organisations, and community groups with practical tools to design and deliver resilience projects. The response has been remarkable, with more than 3,500 participants from around the world registering within the first two weeks! The strong uptake of these courses is a powerful indication that communities are ready to act. ⚡ The challenge before us is to ensure they have access to the knowledge, resources, and partnerships needed to transform ambition into impact. @gccmobility #BerlinClimateMobilityForum #ClimateMobility #EnableAdaptationJourneys #CaribbeanDevelopment #ClimateAction #OurCaribbean

🌎🤝Proud to mark another milestone for the Caribbean. At Sustainability Week 2026 in Barbados, @Caribank signed a $25M trade finance facility with @BIDInvest—advancing efforts to broaden access to financing for the businesses that power our economies. The trade finance gap remains a significant constraint on growth across the Region. Partnerships like this help shift that reality by mobilising capital, reducing risk, and expanding opportunities for trade and development. This is the power of collaboration—working together to unlock greater impact for the people of the Caribbean. Learn more🔗 bit.ly/4oiYbxT #TradeFinance #CaribbeanDevelopment #SustainabilityWeek2026 #OurCaribbean