Government

The National Health Insurance (NHI) program now covers residents in all of Belize Rural South, which includes San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker. The government program reached the Caye Caulker community on Friday, September 27th. A private clinic and a pharmacy signed contracts with the NHI to provide access to primary healthcare services and medication at a significantly reduced cost. The two accredited institutions are Dr. D’s Clinic and Prescription Value Pharmacy. To join NHI, Hicaqueños can register at these institutions with their Social Security Card. If their cards have expired, island residents can still register using their Social Security number.

On September 9, 2024, Michael Lund took on the role of Deputy Resident Representative (DRR) for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Belize. The appointment ceremony was held in Belmopan City, Cayo District. With over two decades of experience in international development, Mr. Lund brings extensive expertise in policy formulation, crisis prevention and recovery, governance, trade, and political affairs to his new role. His previous leadership roles include serving as the President of the Global United Nations Development Program, United Nations Population Fund, United Nations Office for Project Services, and United Nations Women Staff Association. He has overseen one hundred and seven local staff committees worldwide.

On Tuesday, September 17th, Prime Minister Honourable Dr. John Briceño delivered his first State of the Nation address in the Capital City of Belmopan. The Prime Minister shared with Belizeans that the country's state is strong, and the gross domestic product has significantly increased, along with a robust tourism industry and a low unemployment rate. Among other important topics discussed, the highlight of his speech to many was the announcement of a break in income tax for wage earners making up to BZ$29,000 annually.

The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and the Belize International Network for Women in Business (NIME) are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a significant milestone in their joint efforts to empower women entrepreneurs and promote economic growth in Belize. This strategic partnership aims to foster collaboration and support for the growth and development of women-owned businesses in Belize. It also signifies a major step towards DFC’s goal of positioning itself as the “Bank for Women”.

On Saturday, September 7th, a group of vessels, including a large gunboat from the Guatemalan Navy, was seen in southern Belizean waters. The Belize Defence Force (BDF) and the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) approached the Guatemalan military boat. The Guatemalan forces initially claimed they were in their territorial waters, but after some discussion, they complied with Belizean authorities, and the vessels returned to Guatemalan waters.

The Government of Belize and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a U.S. government agency, signed a five-year US$125 million Grant Agreement for investment in education and energy in Belize. Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño signed on behalf of the Government of Belize, and CEO Mrs. Alice Albright signed for MCC.

Seven asylum-seekers in Belize have been granted Permanent Residency Cards, officially recognizing their legal status in the country. The residency cards were distributed on 2 September during an Amnesty Ceremony at the University of Belize Conference Center in Belmopan City, Cayo District.

The Executive Vice President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Jordan Schwartz, and the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. John Briceño, signed loan contracts and related non-reimbursable grant agreements to finance two new programs aimed at enhancing healthcare services and promoting sustainable urban development in Belize, respectively. The signing took place on Friday, 30th August 2024, during the Third High-Level Dialogue of the Regional Climate Change Platform of Finance and Economy Ministries in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.