BNT’s Pig Roast 2025 Raises $100K for Bonefish Pond National Park

April 22nd, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently raised $100,000 for Bonefish Pond National Park (BPNP) during their 2025 Cuban Pig Roast event.

Held on April 5 at The Maillis Farm, the annual fundraiser drew hundreds in support of this year’s cause: constructing a welcome center at BPNP, which will be pivotal in enhancing the national park’s accessibility; its capacity to offer educational and recreational programs; and its ability to generate sustainable revenue. 

Bonefish Pond National Park protects the last intact tidal mangrove ecosystem in New Providence. These mangroves act as nurseries for economically and culturally important marine species, like grouper and crawfish; support the fight against climate change by reducing carbon emissions; and protect nearby communities from storm surge. The park also supports many small, local businesses which utilize its resources for ecotourism opportunities – the likes of which will also be enhanced by the construction of a welcome centre.  

BNT Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle said: “The planned welcome center is poised to transform Bonefish Pond National Park into a more accessible and educational space. It will not only serve as the heart of the park but also as a foundation for deeper community ties and enhanced conservation initiatives. This facility will enable us to better connect people to the natural environment through unique park experiences, fostering a stronger bond between the community and this important space.”

 

At the event, she thanked longtime supporters of Bonefish Pond National Park, including Atlantis and Baha Mar – both of whom have a history of donating towards the park and assisting with park cleanings, mangrove plantings, and other initiatives.

Atlantis has donated more than 3,000 mangroves between 2011 and 2025 to contribute to ongoing restoration efforts in the park. Additionally, they have partnered with the BNT to conduct ongoing water quality testing for the park.

Baha Mar has committed to providing ongoing support for conservation work undertaken by the BNT – including but not limited to efforts at Bonefish Pond National Park and Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park. They also provided a $30,000 donation on the night of the Pig Roast event – majorly jumpstarting the BNT’s live auction in support of Bonefish Pond National Park.

Pig Roast is the BNT’s annual flagship fundraiser, and each year it supports a different priority conservation project or initiative. Pig Roast 2023 raised more than $150,000 towards the development of a welcome centre at Moriah Harbour Cay National Park in Great Exuma; and last year’s Pig Roast raised more than $160,000 for the initial development of Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera. At Pig Roast 2025, sponsor Sagoma Construction pledged an additional $25,000 to go towards Seahorse National Park.

Inspired by the joyous gatherings of family and friends in Cuba who unite in celebration and cheer, the BNT’s Pig Roast provides an atmosphere of joyful camaraderie. This year’s event invited partners, supporters, and friends of conservation together for a night of premium drinks, fine Cuban-Caribbean cuisine, live music and entertainment, and exciting raffle prizes. The evening ended with a beach bonfire and dancing under the stars.

Anderson-Rolle said: “Conservation is not effective without community. The BNT is fortunate to have a community of exceptional partners and major supporters, many of which were able to join us for this inspiring night. Your support creates impact. Thank you all for your commitment to national parks, the BNT, and environmental stewardship.”

Pig Roast 2025 was sponsored by: RBC Capital Markets; Sandyport Development Company; Sun Oil; Harbourside Marine; Bristol Wines & Spirits; Bahamian Brewery & Beverage; Summit Devco Limited, Colina, Grand Diamond, Caribbean Wines & Spirits; Bahamas Waste; Octogone; Bahamas Wholesale Agencies Ltd. (BWA); Marlin Capital Partners; Atlantis; and Callenders Realty.