Community and Society
Firefighters unhappy about cuts to overtime pay
Firefighters across Belize, including those in San Pedro, are voicing their dissatisfaction and concerns regarding several issues within the fire department. These include cuts to overtime wages, inadequate equipment, lack of training, and the removal of ranks.
Government
E-Governance participates in the ‘In-Person Workshop on Political Leadership and Advocacy in Public Policies for Women-Led SMEs’ in Costa Rica
On January 22 & 23rd, The E-Governance & Digitalization Department (EGDD) proudly participated in a significant workshop focused on enhancing women's leadership in the region, represented by Dr. Adriani Coleman, Director of the EGDD. This workshop was organized by El Centro Regional de Promoción de la Micro, Pequeña y Mediana Empresa (CENPROMYPE) in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy and the Central American Integration System (SICA).
Government
Belize Advances SDG Financing with UNCTAD and ECLAC
The Government of Belize has concluded a week of consultations with UNCTAD and ECLAC to strengthen Belize’s access to sustainable development financing. At the end of the consultations, Ambassador Amalia Mai, CEO in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, met with the delegation to formally close the discussions, which focused on securing affordable external funding, improving debt sustainability, and expanding climate finance through UNCTAD’s Sustainable Development Finance Assessment (SDFA) framework.
Business & Economy
Design for new Belize banknotes revealed
The Central Bank of Belize (CBB) is set to issue a new series of redesigned banknotes in June or July of this year, featuring two national heroes of Belize. These heroes are the late Right Honorable George Price, Belize’s first prime minister, and the late Honorable Philip Goldson, a journalist, activist, and politician. On Thursday, January 23rd, the CBB unveiled the new banknotes during a ceremony held at the Belize Civic Centre in Belize City. The new notes will feature portraits of these two figures, replacing the British monarch, the late Queen Elizabeth II. Belize is a member of the Commonwealth and recognizes the British monarch as its head of state.
Government
Department of Youth Services Receives Grant to Promote Climate Change Awareness and Action
In a bold and transformative move to tackle climate change and encourage a sustainable future, the Department of Youth Services (DYS) is proud to share that it has received a $50,000 grant from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This generous funding will support various youth-centered initiatives designed to raise awareness about climate change and inspire collective action to combat its impacts.
Government
UDP leadership still in turmoil: Who will be the leader of the opposition?
A leadership dispute within the United Democratic Party (UDP) between Honorable Moses “Shyne” Barrow and Honorable Tracy Teager Panton is set to be resolved in court, with a management session scheduled for January. Barrow claims he is the legitimate leader of the UDP and the Leader of the Opposition. At the same time, Panton asserts her position as interim leader following a national convention organized by the Alliance for Democracy (AFD).
Government
New Diplomatic Era: David Hodge Takes Control of the U.S. Embassy in Belize
David Hodge has officially assumed the role of Chargé d'Affaires at the United States of American (U.S.) Embassy in Belize, effective January 17, 2025. His appointment follows the departure of Ambassador Michelle Kwan, who held the position since late 2022. Hodge's arrival marks an important transition for the Embassy, which is committed to further strengthening U.S. and Belize relations.
Government
Mayor Wally Nuñez travels to Washington, DC to witness US Presidential Inauguration
San Pedro Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez traveled to Washington, D.C., USA to attend President Donald Trump's inauguration events. On Sunday, January 19th, he attended a private reception, where he mingled with various members of Congress and influential leaders.
