Daniel Best

President, Caribbean Development Bank (@Caribank)

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

🌎🤝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🔗 https://t.co/iWghRX0n3m

#TradeFinance #CaribbeanDevelopment #SustainabilityWeek2026 #OurCaribbean

[The OPEC Fund for International Development @TheOPECFund]

How can multilateral development banks strengthen development impact in an increasingly uncertain global environment?

This was the focus of the 2026 President’s Chat “Financing the Future: MDB Strategies for Uncertain Times” during the 56th Annual Meeting of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) @Caribank.

OPEC Fund President Dr. Abdulhamid Alkhalifa joined CDB President Daniel M. Best @DanielBestCDB, @CABEI_Org Executive President Gisela Sánchez @gisela_san102 and the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage's Executive Director Ibrahima Cheikh Diong for a high-level dialogue on strengthening resilience, scaling development finance and better supporting vulnerable economies, particularly Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

In his intervention, Dr. Alkhalifa emphasized that uncertainty has become part of the development landscape for many partner countries and highlighted the need for MDBs to move from shock response to shock readiness.

“The real test is whether we can help countries move from strategy to implementation, and from implementation to results,” said Dr. Alkhalifa.

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

As the curtain closes on @Caribank’s 56th Annual Meeting in The Bahamas, I leave encouraged by the depth of dialogue, the strength of our partnerships, and the shared determination to build a more resilient Caribbean.

Over the past week, we examined some of the most pressing issues facing our region—from climate resilience and energy security to debt sustainability and global economic uncertainty. While the challenges are significant, so too is our collective capacity to respond.

My sincere thanks to the Government and people of The Bahamas 🇧🇸 for their exceptional hospitality and excellent stewardship in hosting us, and to every leader, partner, young person, and institution whose contributions enriched these discussions. 🤝

The true value of this Annual Meeting will not be measured by the conversations we had, but by the actions that follow.

I am confident that, together, we can turn ideas into impact and ambition into lasting progress. The work continues.

#OurCDB #CDBAnnualMeeting2026 #CaribbeanDevelopment #DevelopmentFinance #ClimateFinance #CDB

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Today marked the Official Opening of @Caribank's 56th Annual Meeting here in Nassau 🇧🇸, bringing together leaders from across the Caribbean and the international development community at a pivotal moment for our region.

The conversations were thoughtful, forward-looking, and grounded in the realities facing Caribbean countries. Climate vulnerability, fiscal constraints, and global economic uncertainty continue to shape the development landscape. At the same time, the prevailing message was one of confidence: confidence in the strength of partnership, the power of innovation, and the resilience of our people.

Beyond the Opening Ceremony, the day’s discussions focused on practical solutions. Among the highlights:

✅ The inaugural EdgeX by CDB: Analytics Unlocked session, exploring how data-driven solutions can address the hidden economic costs of traffic congestion and unlock productivity

✅ The launch of the Impact Room — a dynamic new space connecting investors, entrepreneurs, and development partners, designed to unlock opportunities that can accelerate growth and improve lives

✅ The President's Chat on Financing the Future, where I was joined by the Presidents of CABEI (@bcie_org) and @TheOPECFund, alongside the Executive Director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage for a substantive dialogue on deepening collaboration, expanding access to development finance, and designing solutions fit for small island developing states

The challenges before us are significant, but so too is our collective determination.

The Caribbean is not simply adapting to change—we are shaping it with purpose, partnership, and a shared vision for a stronger future.

#OurCDB #CDBAnnualMeeting2026 #CaribbeanDevelopment #DevelopmentFinance #ClimateFinance #CDB

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

As @Caribank’s 56th Annual Meeting continues, I am encouraged by the depth of dialogue, collaboration, and shared purpose that have defined our discussions so far.

👥 Today’s conversations reinforced an important truth: the Caribbean’s future will be strongest when we bring together the voices, ideas, and talents of all generations.

The Inter-Generational Dialogue of our 2026 Youth FIRE Forum was a powerful reminder that young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow. They are partners in shaping the decisions we make today. Their challenge to us was clear: move beyond consultation and create meaningful opportunities for youth to help design the Caribbean’s future.

⚖️ We also reflected on the importance of strong institutions, public trust, and collective action in driving sustainable development across our region at the 26th William G. Demas Memorial Lecture, delivered by Justice Denys Barrow of the Caribbean Court of Justice.

The challenges before us are significant, but so too is the determination, ingenuity, and resilience of the Caribbean people.

As we prepare for the formal opening of the Annual Meeting, I remain optimistic about what we can achieve together. The conversations taking place here are not only about addressing today’s realities, but about building a stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous Caribbean for generations to come.

The Caribbean’s moment is now. 🚀

#OurCDB #CDBAnnualMeeting2026 #CaribbeanYouth #CaribbeanDevelopment #Leadership #PartnershipForProgress

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

🌎 A major milestone for Caribbean development finance.

At our 56th Annual Meeting, the CDB Board approved a US$200M First-Loss Portfolio Credit Guarantee with the Government of Canada 🇨🇦 — first announced by Canada's Prime Minister at the G7 Summit in June 2025.

This guarantee is expected to unlock up to US$400M in additional financing for climate resilience, sustainable infrastructure, and economic growth across the region.

I was deeply honoured by Canada's recognition of the innovations we've advanced in recent years. It affirms our progress and reinforces our commitment to keeping CDB at the forefront of multilateral development finance, delivering innovative solutions for the Caribbean's future.

Thank you to Canada and our partners for your continued commitment to a stronger Caribbean. 🤝

Learn more🔗 https://t.co/n6LkiRaN8Y

#CDBAnnualMeeting #CaribbeanDevelopment #ClimateAction #SustainableGrowth #CanadaCaribbeanPartnership @Caribank

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

🔥We’ve had a bold start to @Caribank’s 56th Annual Meeting here in Nassau 🇧🇸.

From the vision of young leaders at the Youth FIRE Forum to key Board approvals strengthening climate resilience in 🇧🇿 Belize, 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago, and 🇧🇸 The Bahamas — Day 1 showed what’s possible when we unite around a shared purpose.

🤝 On the sidelines of the main meetings, I also welcomed the opportunity to engage with key partners in shaping new avenues for collaboration across our Region.

The conversations are flowing, partnerships are growing, and momentum is building. We are building the Caribbean’s future — together.

#OurCDB #CDBAnnualMeeting2026 #YouthFIRE #CaribbeanYouth #CaribbeanDevelopment #Leadership

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Development financing is entering a new era — one defined by uncertainty, climate pressure, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and the urgent need for greater resilience and growth.

I was deeply humbled and honoured to be invited by Professor Andreas Klasen to deliver a keynote address at the Lill Global Symposium 2026 at Rhodes House, Oxford, joining more than 130 global leaders from finance, government, academia, and development institutions.

Under the theme, “Unlocking Innovative Finance, Fostering Global Cooperation,” the discussions focused on how we mobilise capital, partnerships, and political will to deliver real development impact at scale in an increasingly volatile world.

One message came through clearly: ambition alone is not enough. There is growing urgency to develop innovative financing instruments that can unlock greater trade, investment, resilience, and inclusive growth — particularly for vulnerable states.

As the only voice from the Caribbean, I needed to emphasise that these issues are deeply consequential for us. Better access to climate finance, stronger partnerships, and financing systems that reflect the realities of Small Island Developing States are critical to our future.

I left Oxford encouraged by the quality of the conversations, the opportunities for deeper collaboration, and the importance of ensuring the Caribbean’s voice continues to help shape the future of development finance.

#SustainableDevelopment #ourCaribbean #ourCDB

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Happy Mother’s Day!

Today, I celebrate the remarkable women who shape our lives with unconditional love, strength, and wisdom.

From my mother, who taught me the values that continue to guide me each day, to my wife, whose loving support and care anchors our family, and to my mother-in-law, whose kindness and wisdom enrich our lives — I am deeply grateful.

To all mothers and mother figures across the Caribbean and beyond: thank you for the countless ways you nurture families, strengthen communities, and inspire future generations. Your impact reaches far beyond the home and helps build a more compassionate and resilient world.

Wishing you a joyful Mother’s Day💐

#MothersDay #Gratitude

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

This week, we brought the @Caribank’s Board of Directors together in Bridgetown 🇧🇧 for meaningful engagement and forward-looking discussions.

From our headquarters tour to the Information Session and Policy Dialogue on Wednesday, and our 313th Board Meeting on Thursday, the focus has been clear: delivering stronger results for the people of the Caribbean 🌎

Our impact is powered by partnership across our member countries.

Borrowing Members:
🇦🇮 🇦🇬 🇧🇸 🇧🇧 🇧🇿 🇻🇬 🇰🇾 🇩🇲 🇬🇩 🇬🇾 🇭🇹 🇯🇲 🇲🇸 🇰🇳 🇱🇨 🇻🇨 🇸🇷 🇹🇹 🇹🇨

Non-Borrowing Members:
🇧🇷 🇨🇦 🇨🇳 🇨🇴 🇩🇪 🇮🇹 🇲🇽 🇬🇧 🇻🇪

Together, we are shaping a more resilient, inclusive future for our region. 💙

#ourCDB #ourCaribbean #StrongerTogether

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

I’m pleased to invite you to join us for the media launch of the 56th Annual Meeting of the @Caribank’s Board of Governors on Thursday, March 19 at 10:00 AM AST.

This year, The Bahamas will host this important gathering of regional and international leaders, where we will discuss the priorities shaping the Caribbean’s development future.

I’ll be joined by Senator the Honourable Michael Halkitis, CFA, CAMS, Chair of the Bank's Board of Governors and Governor for The Bahamas. At the launch, we’ll reveal the theme, dates, programme of events and of course the beautiful logo for the meeting.

📺 Tune in live on CDB’s YouTube, LinkedIn, or Facebook pages.

I look forward to sharing what we have planned for this year’s meeting.

#ourCDB #ourCaribbean #BOG56 #TheBahamas

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Standing with Haiti: Delivering Caribbean Solutions Where They Matter Most 🇭🇹

Last week, we welcomed our Haiti Country Office team to our Headquarters' campus here in Barbados. Hearing directly from the team on the ground was a powerful reminder of both the challenges Haiti faces and the importance of our work there.

Haiti remains a priority under the @Caribank's new Strategic Plan. The context is extremely fragile – 1.4 million people are internally displaced, 6.4 million require humanitarian assistance, and nearly 5.7 million are projected to face hunger. The impact on children and young people is especially concerning.

In this environment, our presence on the ground matters. Since 2018, our Haiti Country Office has helped strengthen partnerships and deliver practical support across several sectors, including:

📚 Education & skills: Over 17,000 students (50% girls) benefited from improved learning conditions under the Quality Enhancement in Public Education programme, while strengthened TVET training at the Jacmel Institute prepares young people for employment.

🌱 Agriculture: The Community-Based Agriculture and Rural Development programme established apprenticeship plots, farmer training for 250 producers (48% women), and a 23.5-hectare irrigation scheme in Northwest Haiti.

⚡ Energy access: The First Power rural mini-grid project will bring electricity to more than 2,000 households and businesses in Mont Organisé, Vallières, and Capotille.

🚨 Disaster resilience: Continued support for Haiti’s participation in the @ccrif_pr regional catastrophe insurance mechanism helps ensure rapid financing after disasters.

As a Caribbean institution delivering Caribbean solutions, we work alongside Haitian communities, making a tangible difference even in the most challenging circumstances.

Haiti is central to our mission of reducing poverty and advancing sustainable development across the Caribbean. I thank our team for their dedication and reaffirm the Bank’s commitment to support Haiti and expand opportunities for Haitian people.

#ourCDB #ourCaribbean #Haiti #Partnerships #DevelopmentImpact

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

The Caribbean is at a defining moment.

At @Caribank's Annual News Conference last week, I spoke about what I believe is a genuine "decade of decision" for our Region. The numbers help explain why:

📊 US$65.2B—the projected financing need across our Region from 2024 to 2033, just to sustain current growth trajectories.
🌱 US$14B—the estimated annual requirement for climate action, with less than 10% currently mobilised.

These are not abstract numbers. They represent schools, hospitals, coastlines, livelihoods, and the ambitions of a generation of Caribbean people.

At the same time, the world around us is changing rapidly. Geopolitical realignments, climate volatility, technological acceleration, and shifting global supply chains are reshaping the environment in which our Region must compete and thrive.

The question before us is clear: Will we become architects of our own resilience, or remain exposed to forces beyond our control?

At CDB, we are responding with equal ambition. Our new Strategic Plan 2026–2035 is built on three pillars:

🤝 Social Resilience
📈 Economic Resilience
🌱 Environmental Resilience

We are committing 30% of our financing to climate action. We are prioritising youth, strengthening institutions, and expanding our capital base because incremental responses to structural challenges are not enough.

By 2035, I believe the Caribbean 🌎can stand among the world’s most resilient regions, supported by strong institutions, climate-smart infrastructure, and a globally competitive generation ready to lead.

That future is within reach, but it requires us to act with urgency and purpose.

Together with our team, our member countries, and our partners, we are committed to rising to this moment and delivering excellence for the people of the Caribbean.

#ourCDB

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Happy International Women’s Day!
On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate some of the women who inspire,
contribute and shape my life daily. I’m motivated by their strength, their wisdom and their determination to meaningfully contribute to building this region, our home.
Across the Caribbean and around the world, women are at the heart of progress and possibility. Today, we honour their contributions and stand firm in our commitment to equality and opportunity for all.
#InternationalWomensDay #HappyBirthdayMum #LoveYou #ThankYou
#IWD2026 #EqualityForAll #ForAllWomenAndGirls
#ourCDB #ourCaribbean

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Returning to the office after an exceptional week at the 50th Regular Meeting of the @CARICOMorg Heads of Government in Saint Kitts and Nevis 🇰🇳, I feel both grateful and energised.

My sincere thanks to Prime Minister Hon. Dr. @TerranceDrewSKN and the wonderful people of Saint Kitts and Nevis for their outstanding hospitality. The warmth and professionalism with which the region was hosted truly reflected the very best of who we are as Caribbean people.

For the first time in approximately a decade, all leaders of the full member states of CARICOM gathered in one space 🏛️, with the majority of associate members also present. In one moment in time, the collective leadership of our Region came together, and it was powerful.

I had the privilege of engaging directly with many Heads of Governments and States 👥 and hearing, firsthand, their perspectives on the role of the Caribbean Development Bank in this increasingly complex geopolitical environment 🌎. I also met with new and prospective partners to explore how we can mobilise greater resources and strengthen collaboration to support the Caribbean’s development priorities.

What resonated most throughout the week was the unwavering commitment of our leaders and institutions to improving the lives of Caribbean people. These are challenging times globally, but the resilience and determination of our Region are unmistakable ⚡.

The spirit of partnership I witnessed last week reinforces my belief that we are well positioned to navigate this moment – together. There is important work ahead, and I look forward to sharing more soon.

#CARICOM50 #StrategicPartnerships #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Sustainable growth. Strategic partnerships. Shared Caribbean progress. 📊

I was pleased to participate in the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the invitation of the Government of Guyana. 🇬🇾

Guyana stands among the fastest-growing energy markets in the world⚡. Yet what is particularly significant is not only the scale of growth, but the vision guiding it.

Under the leadership of @presidentaligy, Guyana is pursuing a net-zero carbon profile 🌳 while advancing its energy ambitions. This commitment to sustainability signals a country thinking long-term: building an energy sector that is competitive, responsible, and resilient.

@Caribank's partnership with Guyana spans the life of the Bank. Today, that collaboration supports strategic investments in infrastructure🏗️, human capital 🎓, and environmental resilience 🌱—helping to ensure that growth strengthens national capacity and delivers tangible, broad-based impact.

At the Conference, President Ali underscored the importance of strong partnerships 🤝 and long-term relationships in sustaining progress. These principles have anchored CDB’s engagement with Guyana for decades and will continue to shape and strengthen our collaboration in the years ahead.

Guyana’s progress matters—not only for Guyana, but for our wider Caribbean. 🌎

#SustainableGrowth #StrategicPartnerships #OurCaribbean #OurCDB

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Stability and confidence are essential foundations for sustainable development.

The recent affirmation by Fitch Ratings reflects the continued strength 📈of the @Caribank and our steadfast commitment to serving the Region.

With “excellent” capitalisation and ‘AAA’ liquidity, CDB remains a reliable and affordable source of financing in a dynamic global environment 🌐. These strong ratings enable the Bank to access capital on favourable terms, helping to channel cost-effective resources toward investments that strengthen resilience and support inclusive growth in our Borrowing Member Countries.

Guided by our Rebirth vision 💡, we continue to advance financial innovation and prudent stewardship to maximise impact, safeguard our strong institutional foundation, and help build a resilient, future-ready Caribbean.

https://t.co/vDAu8U0TdB

#Leadership #FinancialInnovation #FitchRatings #ourCDB #ourCaribbean

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Congratulations, Prime Minister Mottley! 🇧🇧

Warm congratulations to The Honourable @miaamormottley, on her re-election as Prime Minister of the Republic of Barbados.

This renewed mandate reflects the confidence of the Barbadian people in your principled leadership, steady stewardship, and unwavering advocacy on issues that matter most - economic resilience, climate action, social equity, and sustainable development.

At @Caribank, we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the Government and people of Barbados as we work together to advance inclusive growth and build a more resilient Caribbean.

Here’s wishing you every Blessing for continued strength and success in the term ahead. 🙏🏽🤝

#Leadership #Barbados #Partnership #ourCDB #ourCaribbean

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Last week, I joined regional and global leaders at the @AgendaCAF International Economic Forum 2026 in Panama 🇵🇦 to explore strategic opportunities to strengthen South–South cooperation.🫱🏾‍🫲🏿

On a panel discussing Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC)-Africa partnerships, we spoke candidly about the urgency of bridging the Atlantic - not just through dialogue, but through tangible collaboration that delivers results for our people. As the fastest-growing region in the world 📈, Africa presents significant opportunities for shared learning and collective progress, especially given the deep historical and cultural ties that connect our regions.

At @Caribank, we are strengthening partnerships with CAF, @afreximbank and others to advance innovative financing solutions. We are committed to ensuring that regional integration is inclusive and leaves no one behind.

I am encouraged by the many productive discussions and optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.

#CAFForum2026 #SouthSouthCooperation #InclusiveDevelopment

[Daniel Best @DanielBestCDB]

Delighted to have met with Fiona Ramsey, Ambassador of the @EUinBarbados and Ambassador Designate to the Eastern Caribbean, and the EU-@EIB delegation at @Caribank recently.

Our long-standing #partnership with the EU continues to deliver real impact across the #Caribbean Region.