In an impassioned plea, the chairman of the National Organising Committee (NOC) for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Ambassador Noel Lynch, has urged the private sector to reimagine and re-energise itself if it intends to cash in on the cricket carnival in an impactful and sustainable way over the long term.
Delivering a keynote address at the Chamber of Commerce’s 198th marquee event, the annual general meeting and business luncheon, Lynch emphasised leveraging the World Cup as a catalyst to revitalise and re-energise the economy beyond the event itself.
“The information presented so far, in keeping with revitalising and re-energising the economy, brings me to what happens after the global event. I believe we have made a sound business case for hosting the World Cup, establishing that we must emerge expecting a number of legacy benefits,” he said. While acknowledging the opportunities the event presents, Lynch stressed the true measure of success lies in enduring social and economic development.
A paradigm shift
Calling for a paradigm shift towards a private sector-led development agenda, Lynch declared: “If this assertion is accepted, then the key must be a new deal for Barbados and Barbadians. Central to this must be a re-energised and re-imagined private sector. Government has gone as far as it can go.”
Drawing parallels with successful post-colonial societies like Japan and South Korea, the NOC chairman highlighted the limitations of a state-led model in an era driven by technological advancement.
While appreciating the business community’s contributions, Lynch stressed: “The next wave of development must be private sector-led.” He underscored the need to embrace innovation, creativity and cross-border investments, with the private sector spearheading this transformative journey.
“We have long heard of the desire for less government. If this is truly the desire, then the private sector must step up and take the lead in reinventing itself.”
The former tourism minister, diplomat and marketing executive urged the business community to see itself not as individual firms but as a conglomerate focused on driving new industrial development for the country.
BCCI President James Clarke.
City revival prospects
Echoing Lynch’s sentiments, BCCI President James Clarke expressed conviction that the tournament could be “a defining moment for Bridgetown and Barbados”.
“This event has the potential to showcase our capital city on a global stage, highlighting its charm, culture and commercial opportunities…and presents a golden opportunity for Bridgetown to reinvent itself, leveraging global attention and economic activity,” he said.
Emphasising strategic planning in urban development, infrastructure and community engagement, Clarke stressed ensuring benefits extend beyond the tournament itself.
He cited examples like Melbourne, Australia, and Birmingham, England, where similar events catalysed downtown rejuvenation through renewed interest, investments and long-term economic and social gains.
“The potential for revitalising Bridgetown and the wider economy extends beyond immediate gains. It’s about a lasting legacy benefiting future generations,” Clarke added, advocating fostering community pride, improving residents’ quality of life and positioning Bridgetown as a premier international event destination.
“By embracing this opportunity, we can transform our city into a vibrant, dynamic and prosperous hub reflecting the best of Barbadian culture and hospitality.”
Members of the business community at Wednesday’s BCCI Annual General Meeting.
