Central Bank of Barbados’ Governor Honoured with Global Leadership Excellence Award at IFAL 2024

The 10th International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL) honoured Central Bank of Barbados Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge with the Global Leadership Excellence Award for his outstanding contributions to promoting regional integration, cooperation, and the dignity of the Caribbean people.

Governor Greenidge joined 15 other distinguished guests of honour yesterday, including African municipal, parastatal, and organisational leaders. He was one of only three speakers to deliver a special presentation during the opening plenary session.

This year’s forum, held at the Harvard Club in New York City, convened influential leaders and policymakers from across Africa and the Caribbean to discuss solutions for sustainable development and economic growth. Dr. Greenidge emphasised the interconnectedness of the regions and the crucial role of partnerships in fostering sustainable development.

 “The theme of this year’s forum, ‘Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships to Drive Transformation, Sustainability, and Resilience in the Global South,’ aligns perfectly with our efforts to strengthen ties between Africa and the Caribbean. These partnerships are not just necessary—they are the foundation upon which we build a future of sustainable development, economic growth, and shared prosperity,” he stated.

Dr. Greenidge also highlighted the impact of the Bridgetown Initiative. 

“This initiative marks a crucial step in strengthening the economic and financial bridges that connect our regions. By uniting governments, international organisations, private sector entities, and civil society, we aim to tackle critical issues like climate change, sustainable development, and economic resilience,” he said.

Governor Greenidge pointed to the role of partnerships, such as the one with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in boosting trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean. 

He noted, “The $1.5 billion credit facility announced during the opening of the Caribbean office of Afreximbank is a direct example of this cooperation in action. These funds are dedicated to financing infrastructure projects, export development, and import facilitation, directly benefiting Caribbean nations and creating new growth opportunities.”

Reflecting on the shared history and goals of Africa and the Caribbean, Dr. Greenidge stated, “Our relationship has been forged through shared history, cultural ties, and common goals. Together, we prove that history unites us and that we can break the chains of poverty, injustice, and any efforts to hinder our collective transformation.”

He concluded his speech with a call to action, quoting the late Nelson Mandela: “Do not look the other way; do not hesitate. Recognise that the world is hungry for action, not words. Act with courage and vision. The world, indeed, is hungry for action. The Caribbean and Africa are ready. Let us, through multi-stakeholder partnerships, drive that transformation.”

This recognition highlights Governor Greenidge’s leadership and the Central Bank of Barbados’s commitment to driving sustainable growth and economic resilience in the Caribbean region.

About the International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL):

IFAL is a premier platform that unites policymakers and private sector influencers from Africa and the Caribbean to discuss critical issues and explore opportunities for collaboration. Hosted by the African Leadership Magazine (ALM) on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the forum aims to foster stronger ties between the two regions and promote sustainable development and economic growth.

September 24, 2024