Unlocking New Government Contracts in the Caribbean
Rifbid
9/7/2024
Our Rifbid team was thrilled to be a part of the inaugural WB/CDB/OECS Procurement Fair, which brought together suppliers and procurement officers from across the Caribbean region. This landmark event provided an incredible opportunity to connect with key stakeholders in the procurement ecosystem, from regional government representatives to international funding bodies. It also gave us an inside look at how procurement processes can be streamlined and optimized for better transparency, efficiency, and growth.
One of the key highlights of the fair was the exciting revelation that there is over $300 million USD on the table for funding various projects across the Caribbean region. This massive injection of capital into the Caribbean’s development landscape presents unprecedented opportunities for suppliers and procurement officers to partner on infrastructure, healthcare, technology, and other vital sectors. For us at Rifbid, this was particularly energizing as we continue our mission to transform procurement through digital innovation.
Key Projects Highlighted at the Procurement Fair
At the Procurement Fair, we had the opportunity to learn about several significant projects that are set to drive economic and infrastructural development across the Caribbean. These initiatives reflect the region’s growing commitment to sustainability, climate resilience, and innovation. Below are some of the standout projects we were introduced to:
Government of Saint Lucia Solar Energy Project
The Government of Saint Lucia is embarking on a solar energy project aimed at retrofitting 10 government buildings with solar panels. This effort aligns with the country’s commitment to renewable energy and reducing its carbon footprint.
- Project Budget: $9.7M USD
- Project Timeline: 2025-2029
- Project Lead: Kurt Ingles | kurt.ingles@gov.lc
Geothermal Energy Project in St Kitts and Nevis
Funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), this project focuses on procuring drilling services for geothermal production and reinjection wells. The aim is to drill three production wells and two reinjection wells, helping to harness geothermal energy in the region.
- Project Budget: $17M USD (with $1M USD allocated for technical assistance)
- Project Lead: Naftalie Errar | naftalie.errar@nevlec.com
Caribbean Action for Resilience Enhancement Programme
This project seeks to reduce the impact of climate change across CDB member countries. It includes several initiatives to strengthen climate resilience in the region.
- Project Budget: €14M Euro
- Project Timeline: Jan 2022 – Oct 2026
- Belize Subproject: Implementation of a Multi-Hazard Impact-Based Forecasting and Early Warning System for the Belize Watershed ($1.2M USD)
- Consultancy Subproject: Strengthening Institutional Capacity for a Resilient Caribbean Coastal and Marine Environment ($1.8M USD)
- Project Lead: Yves Persona | yves.persona@caribank.org
Southern St George Water Supply Project
This project aims to improve water supply systems in Southern St George, contributing to the region’s water security and infrastructure development.
- Project Budget: $20.7M USD
Basic Needs Trust Fund
This fund supports projects under the themes of water and sanitation, community access, drainage, and education, focusing on improving living conditions in local communities.
- Project Budget: $4.9M USD
- Project Lead: Brandon Antoine | brandon.antoine@slusdf.net
University of the West Indies IT-Based Education Consultancy
The University of the West Indies (UWI) is investing in the procurement of an IT-based consultancy to enhance educational systems through digital transformation.
- Project Budget: $6M USD
- Project Lead: digitaltransformation@uwi.edu
Government of Saint Lucia Emergency Medical Supplies
This project is dedicated to procuring emergency medical supplies to bolster Saint Lucia’s healthcare infrastructure in times of crisis.
- Project Budget: $11M USD
OECS Skills and Innovation Project
This ambitious project by the OECS focuses on fostering skills development and innovation across its member states, supporting the region’s economic growth and future readiness.
- Project Budget: $35M USD
- Project Timeline: 2025-2030
Looking Forward
With over $300M USD in funding available, the future of procurement in the Caribbean is bright. At Rifbid, we are committed to supporting regional stakeholders in capitalizing on these opportunities. Our presence at the fair was just the beginning of what we hope will be long-lasting partnerships with governments and suppliers across the region.
As we move forward, our team is more excited than ever to continue innovating and helping the Caribbean realize its full procurement potential. Whether you’re a supplier looking to scale your business or a procurement officer aiming to optimize your processes, Rifbid is here to help you every step of the way.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to engage with stakeholders and expand our presence in the region. The future of procurement in the Caribbean is digital, and Rifbid is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation.