Government
Belize Monitoring Northern Border Amid Cartel Violence in Mexico
As the Mexican government continues its fight against drug cartels and other organized crime groups, Belize is closely monitoring the security situation along its northern border with Mexico. Prime Minister Honourable John Briceno said patrols have increased and that Belize needs additional support. He has contacted United States officials for possible assistance with equipment, intelligence, and training.
Education
GOB Launches Digital Literacy Training Initiative
On February 13, 2026, the Government of Belize, through the Ministry of E-Governance, partnered with the University of Belize (UB) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to soft-launch the Digital Literacy Training to Citizens initiative. The virtual and in-person ceremony marked an important step toward expanding nationwide digital skills training, targeting Belizeans of all ages, backgrounds, and locations.
Government
Government Confirms Plans for International Airport in Northern Ambergris Caye
The proposal for an international airport in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, continues to advance, with the site selected in the northern part of the island. Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez said the government has approved the project, and the airport will accommodate regional flights and private aircraft.
Community and Society
San Pedro Firefighters Among 21 Nationally Honored for Long Service
The Ministry of Public Service and Disaster Risk Management held a recognition ceremony on Friday, February 13th, in Belmopan to honor 21 dedicated members of the National Fire Service (NFS) for their long-term commitment. Awardees received Long Service Awards for 10, 15, 20, or 25 years of exemplary duty. Among the awardees were Station Officer Orin Smith, recognized for 25 years of service, and Firefighter John Sandoval, recognized for 10 years of service. Both are stationed at the San Pedro Fire Station.
Government
Belize Secures 10,000 Scholarships Through IDB–Google Partnership
Belize joined regional leaders at the 39th Meeting of Governors of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for Central America, Panama, and the Dominican Republic, held in Panama as part of preparatory events for the 2026 IDB Annual Meetings. The country was represented by Narda Garcia, Alternate Governor of Belize to the IDB and Chief Executive Officer in the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Investment and Civil Aviation, along with Cinnamon Bottaro, Belize’s representative on the IDB Board of Directors.
Environment
Belize and UK Celebrate Ocean Partnership Milestones During OCPP Week
Belize and the United Kingdom strengthened their long-standing collaboration in marine conservation and climate resilience during Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP) Week, held from Wednesday, February 4th, to Friday, February 6th. The three-day forum brought together government officials, UK representatives, scientists, youth leaders, and civil society stakeholders to reflect on five years of cooperation and to outline priorities for the future of Belize’s ocean governance.
Government
Guyana President’s State Visit Strengthens Bilateral Cooperation with Belize
President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, concluded a state visit to Belize on Tuesday, February 3rd, marking a significant step in strengthening cooperation between the two CARICOM nations. Highlights of the visit included President Ali addressing parliamentarians at a joint sitting of the House of Representatives, touring Belize’s agricultural sector, and the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). The agreements aim to deepen collaboration across defence and security, education and skills development, tourism, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, and investment opportunities.
Government
Belize’s Military Forces Undergo Change of Command
Belize’s two main military institutions, the Belize Defense Force (BDF) and the Belize Coast Guard (BCG), marked changes of command on January 29th during formal military ceremonies. Captain Gregory Soberanis assumed command of the Belize Coast Guard, while Captain Anthony Velasquez was appointed Brigadier General of the Belize Defense Force.
Conservation
Hol Chan Secures Title to Mangrove Lands South of Ambergris Caye
Following public concern raised in September 2025 over the alleged subdivision of parcels of land south of Ambergris Caye in the Boca Ciega Area within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the office of Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez intervened to address the issue. Months later, on February 2nd, Perez’s office announced that the parcels in question, 11 in total, had officially been issued land titles in the name of the marine reserve.
Government
Belize and Guatemala Foreign Ministers meet at the OAS office to discuss territorial dispute
As Belize and Guatemala continue to strengthen their bilateral relations, a special meeting was held on January 22 at the Organization of American States (OAS) between the foreign ministers of both countries. The discussions touched on ongoing opportunities and challenges and focused on charting a positive course toward a peaceful resolution of Guatemala’s claim at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Government
Unclaimed Million Dalla Jackpot Winnings to Be Donated to Charity
Belize Government Lotteries Ltd. (BGL) has announced that unclaimed winnings from the Million Dalla Jackpot draw held on December 20, 2025, totalling $111,111.11, will be donated to a charitable organization. In a public notice issued on January 21, 2026, BGL reported that eight of the nine winning tickets drawn for the Million Dalla Jackpot game were claimed within the required time frame, resulting in total payouts of $888,888.88.
