Community and Society
Belize Advances Solar Power Plans with Major Utility Project Set for 2026
Belize is advancing its transition to renewable energy with the signing of a major power purchase agreement between Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and Blair Athol Power Company Limited. The deal paves the way for the construction of a 15-megawatt (MW) utility-scale solar plant with a 1.5MW battery energy storage system in the northern Corozal District. Once completed, the project is expected to help reduce the country’s overall electricity costs.
Community and Society
Belize to Launch New National Bus Company in 2026
Belize is taking a significant step toward modernizing its public transportation system with the planned launch of the Consolidated National Bus Company in January 2026. The initiative, guided by the National Bus Consolidation Pro Tempore Advisory Committee, aims to unify the country’s fragmented bus operations into a single, more efficient, and safer national service.
Community and Society
San Pedro Police Boost Patrols to Prevent Crime Spillover from Belize City
The San Pedro Police Department is stepping up efforts to prevent the recent spike in crime in Belize City from reaching the island. Authorities are implementing proactive strategies and collaborating with other security forces to ensure the continued safety of residents and visitors.
Community and Society
Caye Caulker closer to being connected national electricity grid
The Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) is nearing completion of its long-term project to connect Caye Caulker to the national electricity grid. The milestone follows the installation of a submarine cable link between September 29th and October 1st in the vicinity of The Split area. The island is expected to be fully linked to the grid by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the existing generators currently supplying power to the island will be relocated to northern Caye Caulker, where they will serve as a backup system in case of a significant power outage.
Community and Society
Caye Caulker Says No to Legalizing Marijuana in Historic Referendum
On Wednesday, October 8th, the majority of Caye Caulker residents, known as Hicaqueños, voted against the proposal to legalize cannabis on the island. The final tally recorded 857 ballots cast from 1,454 registered voters, with 79 percent voting “No” in the historic marijuana referendum.
Community and Society
Amber Isle Launches Full Bus Operations Across San Pedro
San Pedro’s new public transportation service, Amber Isle, officially began charging fares on Wednesday, October 8th, following a period of complimentary runs held from October 3rd to 7th. Operating six buses, the service now covers a wide range of routes across the island, including key areas from San Mateo to Secret Beach and Boca del Rio to south of the WASA water plant.
Community and Society
Team Chingon Wins 5th Reef Adventures Lionfish Tournament
Team Chingon emerged as the champion of the fifth annual Reef Adventures Lionfish Tournament after capturing an impressive 608 lionfish. The team also won the prize for the smallest lionfish. In second place was Team Elite Divers with 532 lionfish, earning the award for the largest specimen. Team Carma placed third with 523 lionfish.
Community and Society
Steven Cruz to Lead New National Garifuna Council San Pedro Branch
A new executive board headed by Steven Cruz was elected on Sunday, September 28th, to lead the National Garifuna Council (NGC) San Pedro Branch. The election, held in San Pedro Town and presided over by NGC President Alex Nolberto, resulted in the selection of Cruz as president, Alex Noralez as vice president, Eden Velásquez as secretary, Florett Flowers as assistant secretary, Julie Zúñiga as treasurer, Gene Lopez as assistant treasurer, Joseph Elijio as delegate, and Elroy Castillo as alternate delegate.