Government
Dr. Marvin Manzanero may return to the Ministry of Health and Wellness
The new Minister of Health and Wellness (MOHW), Honourable Kevin Bernard, has hinted that Dr. Marvin Manzanero may return to the ministry. The doctor faced the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic under the previous administration. After the change in government, he was unceremoniously removed from his post as Director of Health Services (DHS). Dr. Manzanero ended up leaving MOHW, an incident that did not sit well with many Belizeans, who appreciated his efforts against the pandemic.
Environment
Questionable sale of private island within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve raises concerns on Ambergris Caye
An advertisement for the sale of a private island reportedly within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve south of Ambergris Caye was met with resistance by many islanders prompting an immediate reaction from the reserve's authorities. The post with details of the island was found on a renowned Real Estate company's Facebook page and was promptly removed. Hol Chan, however, indicated that an investigation is ongoing to find out if and how the realtors managed to get ownership of an island located in a marine reserve.
Government
Economic cooperation agreement between Belize and Taiwan goes into effect
Months after the pandemic gripped the country, Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan) signed a mutually beneficial Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA) on September 30, 2020. The agreement, signed under the previous administration, went into effect on Saturday, January 15th, and will provide preferential treatment for Belize’s goods, such as key products from the agricultural and fisheries sectors.
Government
Belize Chairs Forty-Eight Meeting of the Community Council (CARICOM) of Ministers
The Forty-Eight Meeting of the Community Council (CARICOM) of Ministers met virtually on, January 14, 2022, under the chairmanship of Hon. Eamon Courtenay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration.
Government
COVID-19 Curfew extended for another month
The current Statutory Instrument (SI) is due to expire on Saturday, January 15th. Although the recent number of COVID-19 infections is on a significant rise, Belizeans should not expect considerable changes. The curfew is one feature in the regulations that will continue for at least another month. The curfew remains at 11PM from Sundays to Thursdays and 12-midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Government
Direct access to safe potable water for 800+ households in Libertad and Concepcion Villages, Corozal District
An official ground-breaking ceremony for the commencement of rehabilitation works for the Libertad and Concepcion rural water system took place on January 14, 2022 in Libertad, Corozal District. The rehabilitation project entails two components: - Rehabilitation and expansion of existing rudimentary water system (RWS) - Installation of approximately 800 service connections at residences, schools and churches.
Business & Economy
Belize to benefit with millions from foreign aid to help micro, small and medium enterprises
Belize could see between $US200 and $US500 million in grant funding from an independent United States Government foreign aid agency called Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). This funding, expected in 2023, would aid the nation’s economic development and last for five years.
Government
Commission of Inquiry final report approved by Cabinet; highlights irregularities by ministers of previous administration
The report from the Commission of Inquiry into the sale of government assets has been completed and submitted to Cabinet. The report was to determine whether proper procedures, practices, applicable rules, and regulations were duly observed in the sale of government assets by the previous administration under the United Democratic Party from October 2019 to November 2020. The government announced on Tuesday, January 11th they will submit the findings to the Office of the Attorney General and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for advice and action deemed appropriate.