Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Community and Society

Work Advances on Marina Drive to Improve Road Conditions

Paving work is now in full swing along Marina Drive in San Pedro Town as part of the San Pedro Town Council’s ongoing efforts to improve key roadways across the island. The long-awaited upgrade aims to provide a smoother, safer surface for motorists while enhancing drainage and access for residents and businesses in the area.

Residents Reminded to Properly Bag Garbage and Drain Waterlogged Bins

The San Pedro Town Council’s garbage collection crew continues to face challenges on rainy days, as many trash bins are filled with stormwater, and household garbage is often left unbagged. This ongoing issue, exacerbated during the rainy season, hampers waste collection efficiency and poses health and safety risks for sanitation workers on the island

Belize joins Taiwan in celebrating its 114th National Day

The Republic of China (Taiwan) celebrated its 114th National Day on October 10, marking over a century of history, democracy, and national identity. In Belize, the Taiwanese Embassy hosted a “Double Ten” reception on October 9th at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. The event brought together government officials, diplomats, and special guests, reaffirming the close and enduring friendship between Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan). Meanwhile, in Taiwan, Belize’s Governor General, Her Excellency Froyla Tzalam, attended the official ceremonies.

Belize observes Indigenous Peoples’ Resistance Day

Formally known as Columbus Day and later Pan-American Day, October 12th has been officially recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Resistance Day in Belize since 2022. The day honors and celebrates the rich heritage and resilience of the country’s Indigenous cultural groups, particularly the Maya and Garifuna peoples, whose history and traditions remain vital to Belize’s national identity.

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.

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.

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.

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.