Community and Society
UK, the CDB and Belize Unveil Transformative Infrastructural Milestone
The Government of the United Kingdom (UK), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and the Government of Belize announced the successful completion of the Philip Goldson Highway and Remate Bypass upgrade in Belize - a significant milestone in the UK’s and the Bank's longstanding partnership with the Government and people of Belize.
Community and Society
Proposed Municipal Boundaries Re-Delineation Exercise Public Sensitization Sessions
In an effort to promote community engagement and foster inclusive governance, the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government announces a series of public sensitization sessions regarding the proposed expansion of municipal boundaries.
Community and Society
SPTC activates a response to tackling the heavy influx of sargassum
San Pedro Town has activated a response to tackle the current influx of the brown seaweed known as sargassum, with the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) leading the campaign. On May 3rd, they offered more job posts to keep the beaches sargassum-free and are also partnering with the private sector to jointly remove much of the seaweed from the shoreline. All tourism stakeholders are encouraged to share their response efforts as the seasonal natural phenomenon affects the coasts beyond the downtown area.
Community and Society
Belize eliminates mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis
On Tuesday, May 7th, Belize was recognized at a commemorative event in Kingston, Jamaica, for eliminating the mother-to-child transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus, commonly known as HIV and syphilis. Both are sexually transmitted diseases. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) organized the recognition ceremony, which acknowledged the successful eradication efforts in Jamaica, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines. They are the latest countries in the Americas to receive the certification from the World Health Organization (WHO) for this achievement.
Community and Society
Electricity supply issues still threatening Ambergris Caye; nationwide load shedding scheduled
The country's energy crisis continues, but Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) is tackling the issue as best as possible. To maintain power stability on the national grid, BEL is implementing daily load shedding or planned outages for some regions of the country. This has become necessary as BEL currently does not have enough generation capacity in the country after its primary provider in Mexico has been unable to supply them due to power demands on their side.
Community and Society
San Pedro Police Formation receive dash cameras
On Thursday, May 9th, the San Pedro Police Formation received six dash cameras for their vehicles from San Pedro Town Councillor Jose Castellanos. The equipment is to promote safety and enhance police officers' duties. The dash cameras will capture front-view images and the interior of the police vehicles. The cameras record video in 4K resolution, and all footage will be stored and examined at the police station.
Community and Society
Third Annual Kentucky Derby benefit for Saga Humane Society a profitable and entertaining success
Flaire and fanfare of the world-renowned horse race, the Kentucky Derby, served as the theme for the third annual benefit for Saga Humane Society on Saturday, May 4th. Hosted by Kristen Newton, owner of Someplace South CafeBar where the event was held, dozens of Saga volunteers organized the details, which included an impressive selection of silent auction items and raffle prizes. Adding to the entertainment was the Fancy Hat and Human Dressage (a form of horse riding performed in exhibitions and competitions) contests that amused the jovial crowd.
Community and Society
Holly Edgell hosts Workshop and Second Annual Belize Prize for Investigative Journalism
n Saturday, May 4th, the Belize Prize for Investigative Journalism (BPIJ) held a pivotal workshop at the University of West Indies (UWI) Open Campus in Belize City. This significant event, organized by BPIJ Coordinator Holly Edgell, with support from the United States Embassy in Belize, was part of a series of activities to promote journalism in Belize.