Barbados will soon have brighter roads, thanks to a generous donation of 180 solar lamps from China’s Hunan Province to the Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW). The donation was formalized during a courtesy call on the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Works.
Barbados and China Strengthen Ties with Solar Lamp Donation
During the meeting, Minister Bradshaw spoke of the enduring bond between Barbados and China, expressing gratitude for the extensive cooperation between the two nations. She highlighted the solar lamp donation as another significant step in deepening their bilateral relations.
Minister Bradshaw added that the Government Electrical Engineering Department (GEED) collaborated with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Barbados to ensure the solar lamps met the island’s necessary specifications.
Benefits of Solar Lamps for Road Safety
Recognizing the essential role of street lighting, Minister Bradshaw explained how the solar lamps would improve road safety across the island. She expressed gratitude to Hunan Province for their support, noting the broader benefits for Barbadians and visitors alike.
“Street lighting is a crucial aspect of Barbados’ road infrastructure that needs improvement. These solar lamps will help the Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW) better illuminate our roads and ensure their safety. This will benefit both Barbadians and visitors. We appreciate your support and the donation of 180 solar lamps as we strive to enhance traffic safety across the island,” said Minister Bradshaw.
Transportation Collaboration with China
Minister Bradshaw noted that the MTW’s collaboration with China is well-established, citing previous projects like the Scotland District Road Rehabilitation, funded by a BDS $230 million loan from the Exim Bank of China. She also mentioned the upcoming donation of 50 electric buses from China, highlighting the ongoing bilateral cooperation in transportation.
Exploring Renewable Energy Prospects
Governor Mao Weiming emphasized the potential for further collaboration in renewable energy, acknowledging Barbados’s capacity for solar and wind energy development. He suggested that closely monitoring the installation of the solar lights in one district could provide a model for future cooperation in this field.
The Handover Agreement was officially signed by Andrew Gittens, Permanent Secretary of MTW, and Xu Zhengxian, Director General of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Hunan Provincial People’s Government. Dr. Romel Springer, Parliamentary Secretary of MTW, and Tyrone White, Chief Electrical Officer of GEED, were also present, marking the significance of the occasion.
