Monthly Archives: March, 2025
Education
Hope Haven focuses on educating children who are not attending school
A significant number of children are not enrolled in school on Ambergris Caye. This challenge is complex and involves various economic, social, and educational factors. In response, several initiatives are being implemented to ensure that more children have access to education. One such effort is Hope Haven’s upcoming free learning center, which is currently accepting applications.
Dr. Love
Doctor Love: No love for San Pedro
Doctor Love is the islands, and possibly the world’s greatest authority on just about everything. The Doctor answers questions concerning any subject except religion or politics. Persons needing additional assistance or counseling should contact Family Services Division at 227-7541. The opinions herein are not necessarily of The San Pedro Sun. Write Doctor Love at PO Box 51, San Pedro Town, Belize, or email: [email protected]
Government
The Belize Senate finalized for 2025-2030 term
The Belize Senate has been finalized for its 2025 term. The ruling People’s United Party (PUP) and social partners quickly appointed their representatives. At the same time, the United Democratic Party (UDP) introduced a new opposition lineup, featuring Gabriel Zetina, a young real estate agent from San Pedro Town.
Health
The Salud Mesoamerica Initiative saves the lives of thousands of Belizean mothers and newborns
In Belize, the proportion of mothers and newborns receiving quality care for obstetric and neonatal complications more than doubled between 2012 and 2022, thanks to Salud Mesoamerica Initiative (SMI) efforts to improve maternal, child, and reproductive health in terms of access, use, and quality. Administered by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), this regional health initiative significantly improved health care for the poorest 20% of women, children, and adolescents in not only Belize, but also six other Central American countries and one Mexican state, according to an independent study from NORC at the University of Chicago.
Government
The Belize Health Sector Strategic Plan launched to improve public health and well-being
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) has launched a strategic plan aimed at improving access to universal health services for Belizeans. This initiative, known as the Belize Health Sector Strategic Plan 2025-2034, outlines a clear vision to address key challenges within the health system and enhance the nation’s healthcare services, including promoting healthier lifestyles. The program was officially launched on March 21st in Belize City. The event was attended by the ministry’s leadership and representatives from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), a key partner that provides technical and financial support to the initiative.
Police News
Oscar Nal charged and remanded for rape
San Pedro resident Oscar Nal, also known as Omar, has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison following his arraignment at the San Pedro Magistrate Court on Monday, March 24th, on a charge of Rape. Nal is accused of raping an American tourist. He has been denied bail and will remain in custody until his next court date, which is scheduled for May 27, 2025.
Community and Society
Police Report: Boat Incident at Caye Caulker
On March 27th, 2025, at approximately 4:20PM, Caye Caulker Police responded to a call regarding an injured American national at the Caye Caulker Polyclinic. Upon arrival, officers observed a Caucasian male being attended to by a doctor. He was suffering from what appeared to be a large cut on the back of his head and was bleeding profusely. The individual was identified as Mark Christopher Strus, a 45-year-old civil engineer from Michigan, USA, as confirmed by his passport.
Sports
The Future of the Belize Men’s National Football Team
Following the disappointing loss against Costa Rica in the Gold Cup qualifiers, the senior men's national football team is expected to see significant changes under the new Minister of Sports, the Honourable Anthony Mahler. The national team, known as the Jaguars, suffered a staggering 13-1 defeat in aggregate goals against Costa Rica, which is led by Mexican coach Miguel ‘Piojo’ Herrera. Since the loss, Belizeans have expressed their disappointment in the national team’s performance and are calling for changes. However, the Football Federation of Belize (FFB), through its president, stated on Wednesday, March 26, that there are no major issues within the team, and any minor problems will be addressed.