Belize Times August 7, 2022 - MSMEs Roadshow

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The Belize Times

7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Established 1957

7 AUGUST 2022 | ISSUE NO: 5312

The Truth Shall Make You Free

facebook/belizetimespress | $1.00

MSMEs AWARDED 20% OF GOB PURCHASES

RoadShow Aims to Super Empower MSMEs on a Path to Success “We are ushering in a new chapter in our national development, Government is doing what it is tasked to do, fulfil its promise to the people and doing something to improve the lives of all Belizeans.

The success of this program will address unemployment, it will address poverty through the provision of opportunities, and it will create an enabling business environment.” PM John Briceño

Pg. 2 Pg. 5

Joint Statement on Cannabis Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill 2022

HUGE WEEKEND FOR BELIZE AND TOURISM

AMNESTY 2022:

Offers Permanent Residency Application Aug 1 to Nov 30

Pg. 10

Belize Observes

Successful Belize Music & Food Festival

Pg. 8

UDP Desperate!!

Chairman Lies LOO Absconds

2nd Emancipation Day

Pg. 5

Pg. 5

"LET’S GET YOUR BUSINESS ON THE ROAD!"

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7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

MSMEs AWARDED 20% OF GOB PURCHASES

Cabinet Brief Belmopan, 4th August 2022. 11:25 a.m.

The Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met in regular session on 2nd August 2022.

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After deliberating on the results of the meeting of 19th July 2022, and the letter from the churches dated 25th July 2022 addressed to the Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Cordel Hyde on the matter of the holding of a referendum on the proposal to issue licenses for the sale and use of marijuana in Belize, the church leaders, on behalf of the petitioners and the Government of Belize, requested that the Governor General defer the issuing of the Writ of Referendum until a date to be determined. In addition, Cabinet supported the recommendation to issue a joint statement from the government and churches on the matter.

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The Minister of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries updated Cabinet on the investigation into the tragic incident at a Hopkins nightclub, which resulted in the death of two persons and another eight injured. The minister informed Cabinet that three persons were in custody. He assured Cabinet that police investigations will be thorough and that no effort will be spared to bring the perpetrators to justice.

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The Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics and E-Governance, with the assistance of the European Union, has embarked on a consultation process for the development of a National Energy Plan, which will create a path to energy independence through the increased use of sustainable renewable sources of energy.

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Cabinet discussed the National Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprise (MSME) Policy and Strategy for 2022-2025 presented by the Ministry of Investment. The new policy and strategy were approved along with several key recommendations, carving a roadmap with significant contributions to the efforts that have been undertaken to strengthen the MSME ecosystem in Belize. This national effort towards MSME resilience and sustainability compliments the recent strategy to increase the call to support local businesses by buying locally produced goods and services. This support is crucial, given MSME’s contributions to economic development, through job creation, strengthening communities, and increased contributions to gross domestic product (GDP). In Belize, MSMEs are responsible for approximately 70 percent of national employment and close to 50 percent of the country's GDP.

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Cabinet’s commitment to focusing on leading the sustained growth and prosperity of all Belizeans, through inclusion and partnership, is highlighted in these initiatives. Through the national initiatives to support MSMEs across Belize, there will be the implementation of the National MSME Roadshow between August to November 2022 which will include the following pillars: capacity building, access to finance, policy, and legislation, msme formalization, and market access.

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Cabinet also endorsed the first-ever MSME National Roadshow, which will be launched on Friday, 5th August 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. The National Roadshow, spanning approximately four months, will take the services to all district towns and major tourist destinations. This major endeavour will allow MSMEs countrywide to access important services very close to home, ensuring that micro, small and medium-sized businesses have the opportunity to get business-ready or grow their businesses to the next level.

Cabinet was provided with a written update on the status of COVID vaccinations. Currently, there are 219,950 vaccines on hand. As of 29th July 2022, 227,851 persons or 53.0 percent had received at least one dose of the vaccine and 218,203 or 50.8 percent have been fully vaccinated. Of the population ages 12 to 17 years, 26,723 or 45.8 percent have received two doses of the vaccines and of the population 5 to 11 years, 5,825 or 8.0 percent of have received two doses.

To date, 49,964 booster shots have been issued.

Finally, Cabinet congratulated the Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations and the Belize Tourism Board for successfully hosting the International Food and Music Festival, held in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, from 30th to 31st July.

While the remnants of the exmass Party called the UDP is still trying to destroy the nation with their fake news strategy, the planBelize government is looking out for the Micro enterprises all over the country, for the Small Businesses in your neighbourhood and for Medium-sized businesses in Belize. When you see the Prime Minister in Europe, he is looking out for the MSMEs in Belize.

When the Office of the PM(OPM) hosted the Investment Summit in November 2021, they were making sure that the MSME benefitted by any and all growth.

Now the OPM is openly placing the MSMEs on the business pedestal they deserve for directly and positively impacting the rebounding and opening up of the economy. Proof positive of this growth is how quickly the Public servants and teachers got back their 10 per cent which was so instrumental in the world renowned and awarded Blue Bond. This Bond saved us half a billion dollars; this achievement cannot be lauded enough.

Such applause though needs to be followed with sustained growth by the MSMEs and the GoB is bent to help them forward.

OPM Release: City of Belmopan, July 29, 2022. The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) through the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service, is coordinating a national initiative to support Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) across Belize. This initiative will be achieved through the launch of the National MSME Strategy, inclusive of the National MSME Roadshow (NMR) which commences in August and ends in November 2022.

The overall objective of the NMR is to support MSMEs through the following: • Support for an enabling environment for MSME development, • Improve market access and establishment of business linkages for MSMEs • Promote buying locally to improve economic recovery • Increased procurement of MSME goods and services by the public and private sectors • Facilitate Access to affordable finance for the MSME Sector AND • Build the business acumen of MSMEs

Activities under the 3-day roadshow will include: I. A Boot Camp that will deliver business development trainings in Business Models, Marketing, Customer Service, Goal Setting, and Money Management.

II. A Formalization Clinic that will provide a space for key government agencies and financial institutions, to offer services and relevant information to MSMEs inclusive of live registration, and III. A Showcase/Pop Up Shop that will provide MSMEs an opportunity to promote and sell their products, while facilitating supply chain linkages with the Tourism Industry.

The Government of Belize is cognizant that support to the MSME sector is crucial given the important role they play in creating jobs, strengthening communities, and increasing contribution to macroeconomic development. A key output of this initiative will be a National MSME Directory; an online listing of MSMEs geared towards raising public awareness and allowing for the trading of goods and services, produced by these enterprises.

The launch of the National MSME Strategy and Roadshow was held on Friday August 5, 2022, at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

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serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

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Roberto Peyrefitte Printed and Published By TIMES NEWSPAPER LTD. Tel: 671-8385 #3 Queen Street P.O. BOX 506 Belize City, Belize Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

7 AUG

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

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EDITORIAL

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BASHMENT ECONOMICS

here are conflicted feelings over the recent celebration of recent festivals and fairs. However, there seem to be many scheduled over the rest of the summer and even more during the September Celebrations. There is criticism that the spending and celebrations are frivolous and unnecessary. There are many who are disgruntled over the cost of the production of the events, and they argue that the funds could have been diverted to other purposes. However, it can also be argued that all the bacchanal is yet another sign of a healthy, happy, and rebounding economy. San Pedro has seen its fair share of festivities over the last few months. There was San Pedro Day, Lobsterfest, the Food and Music Festival and in a few weeks, they plan to have yet another bash. San Pedro has for years recognized the economic power of a well-organized and marketed event. The Costa Maya Festival proved powerful enough to mitigate the effects of the slow season and ensure that residents of La Isla Bonita made enough during those days to tide them over until the high season.

This year after the quarantine, the lockdown, and pandemic regulations over the better part of two years, it was finally time as Minister of Tourism, Hon Anthony Mahler stated, “time to free up.” This massive party called the Food and Music Festival was celebrated on Emancipation Day, whether by coincidence or by design, it captured the celebration of freedom, fun and, of course, food. The Annual Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament was also hosted by Gran Caribe and brought in hundreds more fishing aficionados. Beyond the apparent frolicking and good times, the massive influx of visitors to San Pedro cannot be denied. The island was packed, there was not a single hotel room left vacant and restaurants and even the street food vendors were all sold out. Flights, water ferries, and taxis were booked out in advance.

The investment in the festival was substantial but was well justified and has had a meaningful and positive economic impact. The people of San Pedro are wonderful hosts, beyond just the hotels, the food, the entire welcoming atmosphere, and the friendly manner of the townspeople is what the San Pedro experience is all about. Thousands of Belizeans flocked to caye this past weekend, and they did so because no matter what the naysayers gripe about, there is now a measure of disposable income for Belizeans to use on entertainment.

The economy shows signs of vigour as people are starting to spend. This spending is what moves the economy. The more people spend and invest, the stronger our economy is. The initiatives that the Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations are implementing to boost local economies and especially the small entrepreneur who sells food at these events are meant to inject money into the local economies. There are many businesses that indirectly make money off these events, and all the Belizean farmers and butchers and producers of all food products benefit.

These events come with a hefty price tag, but they also serve to stimulate the economy, as well as the griping of a sour puss or two. The economic policy of free pibil by the bay did not work. Belizeans are happy that they now have a government that is proactive and ensures that the right investments are made for the benefit of the many, not the few.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

7 AUG

2022

en Español

LA ECONOMÍA DE LOS FESTEJOS

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ay sentimientos encontrados por la celebración reciente de fiestas y ferias. Sin embargo, parece haber muchas programadas durante el resto del verano y aun más durante las Fiestas de septiembre. Se critica que el gasto y las celebraciones son frívolas e innecesarias. Hay muchos que están descontentos por el coste de la producción de los eventos, y argumentan que los fondos podrían haberse desviado a otros fines. Sin embargo, también se puede argumentar que toda la bacanal es un signo más de una economía sana, feliz y en recuperación. San Pedro ha visto su cuota de festividades en los últimos meses. Hubo el día de San Pedro, el Lobsterfest, el Festival de Música y Comida y, dentro de unas semanas, tienen previsto celebrar otra fiesta más. San Pedro lleva años reconociendo el poder económico de un evento bien organizado y comercializado. El Festival de la Costa Maya demostró ser lo suficientemente potente como para mitigar los efectos de la temporada baja y asegurar que los residentes de la Isla Bonita ganaran lo suficiente durante esos días como para aguantar hasta la temporada alta.

Este año, después de la cuarentena, el cierre y las regulaciones de la pandemia durante la mayor parte de los dos años, por fin llegó el momento, como declaró el Ministro de Turismo, Hon Anthony Mahler, de "liberarse". Esta enorme fiesta llamada Festival de Música y Comida se celebró el Día de la Emancipación, ya sea por coincidencia o por diseño, captó la celebración de la libertad, la diversión y, por supuesto, la comida. El Torneo Anual de Pesca Clásica en Aguas Profundas también se celebró en el Gran Caribe y atrajo a otros cientos de aficionados a la pesca. Más allá del aparente jolgorio y los buenos momentos, no se puede negar la afluencia masiva de visitantes a San Pedro. La isla estaba abarrotada, no quedaba una sola habitación de hotel libre y los restaurantes, e incluso los vendedores ambulantes de comida estaban agotados. Los vuelos, los transbordadores y los taxis se reservaron con antelación.

La inversión en el festival fue considerable, pero estuvo bien justificada y ha tenido un impacto económico significativo y positivo. Los habitantes de San Pedro son unos anfitriones maravillosos, más allá de los hoteles, la comida, todo el ambiente acogedor y el trato amable de la gente del pueblo es lo que constituye la experiencia de San Pedro. Miles de beliceños acudieron al Caye el pasado fin de semana, y lo hicieron porque, independientemente de lo que se quejen los detractores, ahora hay una medida de ingresos disponibles que los beliceños pueden utilizar en entretenimiento. La economía muestra signos de vigor a medida que la gente empieza a gastar. Este gasto es lo que mueve la economía, cuanto más gasta e invierte la gente, más fuerte es nuestra economía. Las iniciativas que el Ministerio de Turismo y Relaciones con la Diáspora está poniendo en marcha para impulsar las economías locales y, sobre todo, el pequeño empresario que vende comida en estos eventos, están destinadas a inyectar dinero en las economías locales. Hay muchos negocios que indirectamente ganan dinero con estos eventos, y todos los agricultores y carniceros beliceños y los productores de todos los productos alimenticios se benefician.

Estos eventos tienen un precio elevado, pero también sirven para estimular la economía, además de las quejas de algún que otro amargado. La política económica de pibil gratis en la bahía no funcionó. Los beliceños están contentos de tener ahora un gobierno que es proactivo y se asegura de que se realicen las inversiones adecuadas en beneficio de muchos, no de unos pocos.

7 AUG

2022

Belize Observes

2nd Emancipation Day

August 1, 2022 commemorates the 188th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the British Empire and the 184th anniversary of the abolition of the system of apprenticeship. For the second year, Belize joined its sister Caribbean nations in officially observing Emancipation Day as a public and bank holiday.

Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, attended the official ceremony held for Emancipation Day 2022. In his remarks, he stated that “the indignity and injustice of slavery brought with it psychological trauma and socio-economic inequities which have been passed on from generation to generation.”

Minister Fonseca emphasized that as a government, “we have an obligation and duty to create greater opportunities in these underserved sectors by investing more meaningfully in education, health, housing, and provide greater access to land ownership and

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THE BELIZE TIMES

economic opportunities.”

Minister Fonseca was joined by H.E. Mr. David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Mrs. Marilyn Garvin-Gentle, Interim President of the National Kriol Council and other representatives of the Afro-Belizean community.

This year, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, along with its line agencies, the National Institute for Culture and History, the Belize National Library Service and Information System, and the Belize Archives and Records Service undertook numerous initiatives to promote awareness of the historical, cultural, and social relevance of emancipation. The highlight of these initiatives, the ‘Documentary Heritage of Enslavement and Emancipation in Belize’ virtual exhibit, was relaunched to allow the public to analyse and understand African enslavement in Belize. The virtual exhibit can be accessed at bit.ly/BZEmancipationDay2022 .

Joint Statement on Cannabis Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill 2022 WHEREAS: 1. The Government of Belize recognizes and appreciates the successful effort of the Church Leaders in garnering the required 10 percent threshold of petitions to trigger a National Referendum on the Cannabis Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill, 2022 (“The Bill”).

2. The Prime Minister, Hon. John Briceño publicly announced that The Bill will not be brought into force until the issues in relation to the banking of proceeds connected to cannabis are resolved because this would otherwise have a negative effect on Belize’s domestic banks’ correspondent banking relationships.

3. On 19 July 2022, the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Cordel Hyde and other members of Cabinet met with the Church Leaders to discuss the referendum and especially the high cost of holding a National Referendum at this time.

4. On 25 July 2022, Senator Bishop A. Moses Benguche expressed in writing the position of the Church Leaders and agreed to the postponement of the National Referendum.

THEREFORE, the parties agree to this joint statement: 1. The Church Leaders on behalf of the petitioners and the Government of Belize request of the Governor General to defer the issuing of the Writ of Referendum until a date to be determined.

2. The Government of Belize undertakes to introduce legislation at the next sitting of the House of Representatives to mandate the holding of a National Referendum on the matter of The Bill to determine the will of the Belizean people.

3. In the interest of national unity and cooperation the parties will continue to dialogue and work together on this matter and all matters of national concern.

Dated this on 4th of August 2022.

UDP Desperate!!

Chairman Lies LOO Absconds Shyne’s police protection is rejected so he runs to the only United he adores and it is not the ex-mass Party. Meanwhile, unelected and multiple times rejected Michael Peyrefitte has been making the shadow media rounds around his own self and around the haad pay UDP station. All this just to render lies as per usual—the sky is falling he blurts. Peyre is mysteriously now, post 2020, adept at every issue when clearly his record shows he is inept and clueless. The long list of Peyre failure and scandals cannot be listed in one article. The worse was probably his misinformation about the helicopter incident where the Belizean public was kept in the dark of what happened in the dark lagoon down south. What the families can say is that he lied to them about their compensation.

This reinforced chair Peyrefitte is the same man that in the middle of the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic and economic depression found himself riding in a super reinforced Landcruiser. Whatever happened to this vehicle is a good question. What we know and could not be hidden was how furniture that had to be custom-built for him but still belonging to the Government of Belize was voodoo-like passed on to him in the sweetest of deals from Barrow’s Ministry of Finance. Unknown to us is if laptops in the deal were also custom-engineered for Peyre.

So when a buffoon goes on a TV station that ill-pays its employees whose bruk boss is flying around the

world escaping the realities of Belize, the savvy people of Belize definitely will definitely recall this buffoon’s insulting sarcasm during the ‘Ask the Exxperts’ joke.

Peyre was then the Barrow-version of himself as the Minister of Everything. In 2020, No UDP was worth a Ministry, especially not UDP women representatives.

Peyre had commented that there was no need to share the Ministries since he could do them all. He could NOT. All of his Ministries and departments were in horrible decay, disarray and demoralized states: Police, BDF, Vital Stats, Attorney General’s Office were the most debilitating to Belize. Now in Opposition, Peyrefitte finds it easy to float in the mire of UDP falsehoods and Trumpian illusion.

Real Belize progressing policy is far from the oppressive minds of this remnant of a party Opposition.

Mike Peyre, the media and public have NOT forgotten that you called them Facebook whores. In the UDP, it seems you are the only one being paid today for doing nothing, so you attempt to manufacture uncut versions of soap operas.

Your rhetoric includes, the UDP did the blue bond, the Haulover, all Infrastructure, even Berger Field…etc etc…The only truth is that the former UDP, now an extinct mass party, was and continues being too incompetent and corrupt to have even begun these projects. They do not understand basic engineering and math. Filling pockets and socks for “campaigns” was easier. Be gone, the people have spoken to you four times in a row.

Rest in peace UDP.

BELIZEPROPERTYAUCTIONS.COM COUNTRYWIDE PUBLIC AUCTION SALES PROPERTY: Independence Village, Stann Creek District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the following property. Sales currently running until 30th September 2022.

Public Auction Sales will expire fortnightly on the dates and times listed on the website until this property is sold.

Lot No. 251 Seagull Street, Independence Village, Stann Creek District:

(ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 251 comprising of 661.665 square metres situate in Independence Village, Stann Creek District, bounded and described as Shown by Plan No. 884 of 2001 attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 884 of 2001 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Being a two-storey concrete/timber structure [3775 sq. ft.] consisting: Ground Floor – 2 bedrooms + 1 bathroom + living/dining/kitchen; First Floor – 1 bedroom + 1 bathroom + living room + dining room; large 2 car garage TOGETHER with lot [661.665 S.M.] situate on Seagull Street, Independence Village, the freehold property of Ms. Anthea Mathias and Mr. Samuel Mathias)

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE”

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE: 223 4488 Email: kevinacas@yahoo.com Face Book: Belize Auctions

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7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022 NOTICE GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE TREASURY BILLS ISSUE NUMBER 9/2022

Tenders are invited for an issue of Government of Belize Treasury Bills.

The amount of the issue will be $67,408,200.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH & WELLNESS VACANCY NOTICE

The Bills will be issued in electronic form only evidenced by an electronic book entry in the Central Securities Depository of the Central Bank of Belize in multiples of $200 and will be repayable at par 91 days after issue.

They will be issued on Wednesday, 17 August 2022 and will be redeemed on Wednesday, 16 November 2022.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the post of Chief Drug Inspector, Ministry of Health & Wellness.

Each tender must be for $200 or a multiple of $200 and must specify to five decimal places the amount, which is offered for each one hundred dollars face value of the Bills sought.

Salary Pay Scale: 23 of $36,554 × 1480 -$64,674

Qualification: Recognized Master’s Degree in Pharmacy or related field. Must be a Deadline:

registered Pharmacist with five (5) plus years’ experience as a pharmacist.

August 19, 2022 Application with two (2) references and copies of qualifications to be submitted to: Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Health & Wellness 3rd Floor, East Block Building Belmopan

(N.B. complete details on this position can be viewed at https:// jobs.publicservice.gov.bz/)

Members of the public who wish to participate in the auction must submit their bid to the Central Bank of Belize electronically or at the designated drop off box no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, 12 August 2022.

The Auction in the Central Securities Depository System (CSD) will be opened from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Wednesday, 17 August 2022.

Successful bidders should arrange to settle via the Automated Payment & Securities Settlement System of Belize (APSSS).

Bank: Central Bank of Belize Account: GLICORP0402627 The Government of Belize reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all tenders in whole or in part.

CENTRAL BANK OF BELIZE

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Notices are placed on Central Bank of Belize Website (www.centralbank.org.

27 July 2022

CARTOON

7 AUG

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

07 7

MSME ROADSHOW & MSME STRATEGY LAUNCH

Remarks by Hon. John Briceño Prime Minister of Belize

Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel Belize City, 5th August 2022 Good morning.

I hope you are all as excited as I am about this morning’s event. Today, I am pleased to be a part of this initiative. In addition to launching our Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Strategy and Roadmap for Belize, we will also be launching the MSME Roadshow.

I see with us today His Excellency, Mr. David Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) as well Mr. Ramiro Lopez Ghio, Country Representative for the Inter Development Bank.

The Representative of the United Nations Development Program, Our private sector partners and many other friends.

Thanks for coming, we’re glad you came This strategy and roadmap are significant contributions to the efforts that we have undertaken to strengthen the MSME ecosystem in Belize. As you know we are committed and focused on leading for sustained growth and prosperity for all Belizeans. Our strategy is to build an inclusive ecosystem and for this reason our initiatives are geared towards building partnerships. This is why we are having this road show, to include and involve as many partners as possible from all across Belize. Let me say from now that we are doing this in collaboration with the UNDP, the United Nations Development Program. UNDP is supporting our work through a project called the "Building Resilient MSMEs- Accelerating Digitization project." We also received support from the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF).

So, from August to November, we are implementing the National MSME Roadshow. Our roadshow will seek to support MSME nationwide and will include the following pillars: Capacity Building, Access to Finance, Policy, and Legislation, MSME Formalization, and Market Access. This national effort towards MSME resilience and sustainability compliments our recent strategy to increase the call to support local businesses. We want Belizeans buying locally produced goods and services. MSME’s contributions to economic development is crucial because it facilitates job creation, strengthens communities, and increases contributions to GDP. Our records show that MSMEs are responsible for around 70 percent of our national employment and close to a half -- 50 percent -- of the country's GDP. It is indeed a fact that MSMEs continue to face economic challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, access to affordable financing, the rising costs of doing business, disruptions in the supply chain, and increased competition brought on by globalization. To combat these challenges, we must work together to provide the enabling environment, so that MSMEs can innovate and so that they can pivot where necessary to meet the needs of an ever-transitioning Belize. In essence, they must undertake initiatives that build their competitiveness.

For these efforts, let me thank our local, regional, and international partners who continue to champion organic growth among MSMEs, by facilitating projects and programs that provide capacity building and economic empowerment of women, youth, and other vulnerable groups. During the last two years this collaboration has helped my administration to transform itself into an effective, forward-looking, fiscally disciplined, and economically sober government. It has also allowed us to demonstrate that real transformation occurs when we promote national development together.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have and will continue to support our Belizean businesses because this is at the heart of Plan Belize. Each time successfully implementing any part of Plan Belize, we work toward improving the lives of all Belizeans. Now we know, that what must happen in tandem with the Roadshow, is the need for revised legislation which should add to the enhancement of MSMEs fiscally and operationally. With support from the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF), BELTRAIDE, in 2012, developed an MSME Strategy and Policy for Belize. What we are doing today is realigning the Strategy and Policy to match the times and the present challenges our MSMEs face.

Why? Because these past years have been anything but ordinary, so we must adjust. The disruptive nature of things has forced us to level up in business and learn to adapt to remain competitive. We understand that those who can’t face the inevitable become obsolete. For this reason, key elements of the revised policy focus on identifying the sector's needs and analyzing Belize's business environment through regional and international best practices, all within a Belizean context. Today, the National MSME Strategy and Roadmap includes a definitional, legislative, and regulatory framework and a plan to improve market access and competitiveness with business continuity, as its nucleus.

We are all aware that our Belizean economy is vulnerable to external shocks. We also know that tourism, which for some time now has been the mainstay of the Belizean economy recently faced serious challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The result of this was immediate contraction. At the time tourism contributed to close to 44 percent of GDP. This, of course, was not unique just to Belize, all global economies that depended on tourism suffered. What we did when we came into office was focus efforts on expanding our breadbasket into non-traditional industries to create a more diversified economy. We encouraged investments in manufacturing, agribusiness, business process outsourcing, and the creative industry to promote and strengthen Belizean MSME businesses' competitiveness. Through the development of this strategy, MSMEs will benefit from programs to improve competitiveness, access to larger markets, access to affordable microfinance, cultivate innovation, and build technical, managerial, and requisite skills, five (5) strategic thrusts.

The first thrust is to improve Access to Markets: The growth of MSMEs is dependent on their ability to infiltrate other markets, and therefore it is imperative to offer strategic opportunities to develop their export capabilities. Through BELTRAIDE's EXPORTBelize, MSMEs will continue to receive support aimed at foreign market penetration, in tandem with standards to encourage value-added production. They will also be able to participate in regional and international trade shows to enable their export capabilities and most importantly, they will be provided a digital space, in the virtual knowledge center supported by the IDB. This Virtual Knowledge Center is an online platform supported by BELTRAIDE that will provide access to training, capacity building, and a free directory featuring MSMEs from across the country. I encourage all MSMEs in Belize to sign up to be a part of the directory that will also provide free marketing for your business.

The second thrust focuses on the development of a conducive business climate that harmonizes with the MSMEs, export, and private sector development macro policy framework. This focuses on regional and international best practices, the needs of the sector, and can also be an excellent opportunity to accelerate government’s regulatory reform and reduce the excessive costs of doing business in Belize.

The other three thrusts focus on enhancing capabilities and innovation which equips MSMEs with modern technologies that enable them to compete globally; and the setting up of institutional and governance frameworks which enable businesses to assess their company value and creditworthiness.

Finally, the strategy will facilitate access to finance, inclusive of financial literacy, through partnership with our local and international funding agencies. Increasing MSME competitiveness is only possible through affordable credit, which is crucial for developing businesses. Credit disbursement to this sector, however, has remained sluggish over recent years. While we acknowledge the efforts by the financial institutions and development banks for new financial products such as digital wallets and tailored MSME loan products, we know that there is more that needs to be done to ensure that MSMEs have the financial support that they need to keep their doors open and maintain their pivotal role in the socio-economic development of our country. To upscale the impact and sustainability of our MSMEs, we have secured a loan of US$15 million, from the Inter-American Development Bank for production-oriented financing through environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient systems. This project will provide direct support to over 200 businesses in the agriculture, fisheries, and tourism sectors and will help protect jobs and promote the recovery of MSMEs. On Tuesday, Cabinet also approved the adoption of the policy to have government award 20 percent of all government procurement tenders to MSMEs by March 2025. Additionally, BELTRAIDE, through the Development Finance Corporation, will be launching the Belize Enterprise Revolving Fund: with a focus on diversifying the national economy of Belize, by strengthening and improving the competitiveness of MSMEs. Under this program, maturing businesses, export-ready and near-ready-export MSMEs, with export potential, will receive technical assistance, including capacity building, and financing through loans and grants.

And yes, I am excited to say this program will especially be made available to disadvantaged groups such as women and young people. We are taking these crucial steps to ensure the sustainability of our MSMEs, we want them to benefit from financing and business development support -- for us this is key.

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen today is a good day. We are ushering in a new chapter in our national development, Government is doing what it is tasked to do, fulfil its promise to the people and doing something to improve the lives of all Belizeans. The success of this program will address unemployment, it will address poverty through the provision of opportunities, and it will create an enabling business environment.

Let us move forward with the implementation of the MSME Strategy and Roadmap. Let us work together for the success of the MSME Roadshow. And let do our part to build Belize and ensure a lasting impact on a prosperous and sustainable future for all Belizeans.

I thank you.

8 08 8

THE BELIZE TIMES

HUGE WEEKEND FOR BELIZE AND TOURISM

Successful Belize Music & Food Festival MUSIC DAY 1 July 30, 2022 - The first Belize International Music and Food Festival kicked off in San Pedro! The night was filled with stellar performances by local and international artists and DJs. Headliners included Timaya, DeMarco, Barrington Levy, and Grammy-award winning performing artist, Koffee!

MUSIC DAY 2 Energy could be felt at the Saca Chispas Field on Sunday, July 31st. From punta to cumbia to soca, the music had the crowd rocking to every beat. This day started with performances by C Wills, TLC Band, Flako Leslie, Supa G, and the vibrant Latino band Sonora Dinamita.

The dynamic lineup continued with performances by Ernestine Carballo, TR Shine, the powerhouse headliner Patrice Roberts alongside Teddyson John, Farmer Nappy, Ricardo Drue, and Lil Natty & Thunda.

The Belize International Music and Food Festival ended with a fiery crowd, dancing and singing along with friends and family from local and abroad.

FOOD at the Music and Food Festival A highlight of the Belize International Music and Food Festival was the flavorful food offered by a variety of vendors. Attendees had the flexibility to purchase food at the festival either in person or via a live food catalogue which was made available by E-Menu Belize. With more than 20 food vendors, there was something to suit every palette! The recipients of the People’s Choice Award were Sandbar, JK’s Kitchen, and Itza’s Caribbean Flavors. They were each presented with a cash prize of $500 at the festival.

MSME’s Opportunity: BTB Connect Expo & 6th Annual Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic!

The Grand Caribe in San Pedro hosted the Belize Tourist Board Connect Expo on Saturday, July 30th. The event hosted over twenty vendors from various sectors such as eye care, distillery, financial institutions, law firms, pastry shops, and many others! More MSMEs got an opportunity to showcase their products and services.

This weekend also was the 6th Annual Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic! It started on Friday, July 29th, and finished Sunday, July 31st, with over $200,000 in cash and prizes.

This mega event involves many experienced fisherfolks and even international participants.

This year, the fishing content creator with over 4 million subscribers, Blacktiph, participated in the highly regarded event! Also, fitness social media influencer Demi Bagby came to San Pedro to fish in the deep blues!

Seine Bight Welcome Center Concept August 3, 2022 - The BTB unveiled the Seine Bight Welcome Center Concept at the current Seine Bight Police Station.

The project will give the area a complete makeover with lighting, landscaping, and relocation of the Police Station to a new building. The community will have a place to display culture and heritage as the new infrastructure will include: • A 2500 sq. ft. open concept welcome center for a Garifuna culture museum • A 500 sq. ft. mini-amphitheater entertainment center with a seating area for drumming and performances • Three vendor booths for food and artists • Outside seating area with benches for 60 visitors • A walkway from the road up to the sea The anticipated time period for completion of the Seine Bight Welcome Center is nine months.

Belize Music & Food Festival

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2022

HIGHLIGHTS

7 AUG

2022 Minor in an adult entertainment establishment The National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC) has noticed with alarm the report that a 15-year-old minor was one of the injured at a nightclub shooting on Sunday morning in Hopkins Village.

It is clear that a 15-year-old should not be in a bar or nightclub, which must be reserved for adults. We call on law enforcement to fully investigate the management of the nightclub and to let the law takes its course for this grave infraction.

Just as importantly, we call on all parents and guardians to be ever vigilant in ensuring that minors are not allowed in such establishments. We consider this to be a family and child protection issue of extreme importance. Therefore, we repeat, that law enforcement, business establishments, parents and guardians and communities as a whole must ensure that underage persons are not to be in any adult entertainment establishments.

In order to protect our families and children, we must give the highest priority to this issue. Only through keen awareness and vigilance will we protect our children and ensure strong and resilient families.

NCFC will continue to champion the rights, welfare, and development of Belizean children and families.

Belize National Prayer

Almighty and Eternal God, who through Jesus Christ has revealed Your Glory to all nations, please protect and preserve Belize, our beloved country.

--------------------God of might, wisdom and justice, please assist our Belizean government and people with your Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude.

--------------------Let Your light of Your divine wisdom direct their plans and endeavours so that with Your help we may attain our just objectives.

--------------------With Your guidance, may all our endeavours tend to peace, social justice, liberty, national happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety and useful knowledge.

--------------------We pray, O God of Mercy, for all of us that we may be blessed in the knowledge and sanctified in the observance of Your most holy law, that we may be preserved in union and, in that peace which the world itself cannot give.

--------------------And, after enjoying the blessings of this life, please admit us, dear Lord, to that eternal reward that You have prepared for those who love You. Amen.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

ENGINEERS CONDUCT SITE SURVEY ON SARSTOON FOB Belmopan, August 4, 2022. 11:00 a.m.

On July 29, 2022, the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security, along with a team of engineers, visited the Sarstoon Forward Operating Base (FOB) in the Toledo District.

The visit follows reports concerning the integrity of the FOB due to erosion. During the visit, engineers conducted a site survey and collected data with a view to make recommendations for immediate and short-, medium- and long- term improvements. Once the engineers present their recommendations, the ministry intends on tabling before Cabinet for consideration.

The delegation included Brigadier General

(Ret’d) Dario Tapia, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of National Defence and Border Security; Brigadier General Azariel Loria, Commander, Belize Defence Force; Dr. Kenrick Williams, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management; Mr. Irvin Thimbriel, Civil Engineer, Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing; Honorary Captain Anthony Henderson, Civil Engineer for surface and sub-surface; Mr. Alan Garcia, Civil Engineer, Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing; Major Justo Veliz Jr, Executive Officer, First Infantry Battalion; and Mr. Devin Azueta, Communications Officer, Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

BELIZE PARTICIPATES IN ECLAC HIGH-LEVEL MEETING

The United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) Subregional Headquarters for the Caribbean convened a high-level meeting to advance consideration of the ECLAC Caribbean Resilience Fund in Antigua and Barbuda, from July 26 to 29, 2022.

The ECLAC Subregional Headquarters for the Caribbean continues to champion its Debt for Climate Adaptation Swap Initiative and the establishment of a Caribbean Resilience Fund (CRF), an innovative financing mechanism intended to leverage much-needed development finance for resilience building, economic diversification and innovation, while reducing the subregion’s onerous debt burden, exacerbated by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Given the Caribbean economy’s structural weaknesses and its susceptibility to natural events, fostering macroeconomic integrity, competitive economies and environmental resilience will be critical for building resilient economies.

Participating in the meeting were Hon. Christopher Coye, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment, who spoke on several panels to discuss debt restructuring and liquidity; and the option of Debt for Climate Adaptation Swap as a possible mechanism to bring debt relief to the member states. Minister Coye also discussed the Belize experience with its successfully negotiated Blue Bond Agreement.

The Belize delegation also included Ms. Beverly Wade, Director of the Blue Bond and Project Finance for Permanence Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister, who was one of the respondents for the discussions on the structure, functioning and capitalization of the proposed CRF and engagement with donors/investors. The meeting is meant to determine a roadmap for the establishment of the fund.

Belize also held several bilateral meetings with ECLAC, key private sector representatives and other states to discuss the advancement of Belize’s Economic resiliency agenda.

NORTHERN MEDICAL Specialty PLAZA ORCHID DRIVE, B.S.I. AREA, ORANGE WALK TOWN, BELIZE PHONE: 302-3708 Northern Medical Plaza invites applications from experienced, dynamic, energetic, self-motivated and professional individuals for the following vacancies Anesthesiologist Radiologist X-ray-Technician Qualification General Practitioner with specialty in Anesthesiology.

General Practitioner with specialty in Radiology.

Bachelor’s degree in Radiology Technician Requirements Anesthesiologist must be registered with the Belize Medical Council.

Radiologist must be registered with the Belize Medical Council.

Xray Technician must have 3years experience in Mammography and Ct-Scan.

X-ray-Technician must be accredited by Ministry of Health as an X-ray Technician.

Applications close: August 15, 2022 Please submit application letter and three References to: northernmedical@live.com Human Resource Manager Northern Medical Specialty Plaza Ltd. Orchid Drive, BSI Area Orange Walk Town

AMNESTY 2022:

7 AUG

2022

Offers Permanent Residency Application Aug 1 to Nov 30

Amnesty 2022 was officially declared open this morning by Hon. Ramon Cervantes, Jr., Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration, during a small ceremony at the Belize Amnesty Registration Center in Belmopan.

Migrants residing in Belize illegally or who are recommended asylum seekers, and fit the eligibility criteria, will now have an opportunity to apply under the program. Following a thorough application process, which includes police background checks, those who qualify for the amnesty will be offered permanent resident status with a path to citizenship.

On July 6 of this year a Public Notice for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration went out informing Belize and the world of the following: Amnesty 2022 will address the issue of irregular migrants in Belize and focuses on managing migration, national security, economic development, and humanitarian assistance.

• The application period begins on August 2, 2022 and ends on November 30, 2022.

• The processing period runs from December 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023.

• Three Amnesty 2022 Registration Centres will be available in every district.

• The online appointment portal opened on July 1, 2022.

• The Information Centre opens on July 11, 2022 (Telephone – 8224913, 822-4914, 8224915; WhatsApp – 610-3674; Email - amnesty@immigration.gov.bz; Live online chat on website) More information can be found on the ministry’s website at www. immigration.gov.bz

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2022 GET WELL SOON

BISHOP LARRY NICASCIO

Press Statement

Honourable Henry Charles Usher, Minister of Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform and Religious Affairs, received the sombre news, via email correspondence from the Roman Catholic Chancery Office, that the Most Reverend Lawrence Nicascio, Bishop of Belize City and Belmopan, has been diagnosed with cancer and is away receiving treatment.

The minister and the ministry send their prayers and well wishes for a complete healing of Bishop Nicascio and ask the nation to join in lifting the bishop and all those affected by cancer in prayer.

1st Disbursement of 2022 Bilateral Cooperation Grant from the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) On July 21, 2022, Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment, received a grant from H. E. David KuanChou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), in the amount of US$1,150,000. This represents the first disbursement under the 2022 Bilateral Cooperation Program between Belize and Taiwan.

The generous financial support received from the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will support several initiatives aimed at attaining our

sustainable development goals and will see the upliftment of the people of Belize.

This initial disbursement will be used to fund the expansion of the National Healthy Start Feeding Program for this school year. The feeding program is an initiative administered by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, with the support of the Ministry of Health & Wellness, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Food and Agriculture Organization, to reduce and prevent hunger, obesity, and other forms of malnutrition in vulnerable school children and help to keep such children in school.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE: Notice is hereby given that Fleur Del Valle Musa is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “The Factory Kitchen” located at # 91 North Front Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wei Quan Zheng is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Coral View Game Room” located on Aventurera Street, Caye Caulker, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shikai Li is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “88 Shikai Shop” located at # 7386 Antelope Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Sheng Wang Chen is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “K.C. Shop” located at # 78 Barrack Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

NEEDED: Cashier at BD Laundromat & Grocery, located at # 39 Mahogany Street, Belize City. Call 669-4212 for more information.

Cashier at Hoque Store, located at # 44 Mahogany Street, Belize City.

Call 669-4212 for more information.

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) invites tenders for the following vehicles: BID # 2022-600 T-1

Serial No.: MPATFS85HAH519472 Type: Pick-up Truck Description: 2010 ISUZU DMAX C-35527 BID # 2022-600 T-3

Serial No.: MPATFS85HAH519855 Type: Pick-up truck Description: 2010 ISUZU DMAX C-41449

BID # 2022-600 T-2

Serial No.: 1GC3KVBG2AF148888 Type: Pick-up truck Description: 2010 CHEVROLET SILVERADO C-35612 BID # 2022-600 B-1

Serial No.: 1HTSDAARXYH242729 Type: Bucket Truck Description: 2000 INTERNATIONAL 4900 4X2 A-4069

The bidding documents which outline the scope of the bid, submission and dates, are available on BEL’s website at www.bel.com.bz/Tenders.aspx Bids must be submitted via email to bidsubmittal@bel.com.bz no later than 3:00 p.m. on Friday, August 19, 2022.

The subject of the email should include Bid #2022-600 Sale of Retired Vehicles.

The above vehicles can be inspected at BEL’s Ladyville Compound in Belize City between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Monday, August 8, 2022 to Friday, August 12, 2022.

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THE BELIZE TIMES 2022

7 AUG

2022

7 AUG

2022

2015THE BELIZE TIMES

Economy on the Rebound Prime Minister John Briceño, OW Central

Min. Jose Mai, Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise

13

18 JAN

Belizeans Out Everywhere Belize Music & Food Festival in SP

Min. Julius Espat, Infrastructure Development and Housing

Awesome success

National Sports Council in Bmp Summer Camp, teaching health and wellness by example

Hon. Oscar Mira at Salvapan crossing well underway Resilient Rural Belize: Equipment to New River Farmers Football teeming at Isidoro Beaton, Atletico FC vs Valley of Peace United

Min. Andre Perez, Blue Economy and Civil Aviation

Belize City Council

On the Crooked Tree causeway

Briefed on police work

Special Envoy Rossana Briceño for the Development of Families and Children

Back-To-School Edition Downtown Super Sale

Requena Cup in Toledo

Fruitful discussion with Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Leyla Moses-Ones

Min. Rodwell Ferguson, Youth, Sports and Transport

In Belama, collaboration w/ Citco & Hon. Fonseca

Min. Anthony Mahler, Tourism & Diaspora Relations

Visited the SCLAN training sessions in Southern Belize

Hon. Leal, sports in BRN

Hon. Ramon ‘Monchi’ Cervantes, OW North

Soft Launch of Amnesty Program

Men and Women championships

w/ Diaspora supporting our Security Forces ‘Baker to Vegas’ team

Sponsor: Aug 13 Miss Universe Pageant at the Bliss

Congrats to Crooked Tree and all for playing in Softball Marathon

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THE BELIZE TIMES

7 AUG

2022

THE TRUTH ON

planBelize 2022 FUEL Stabilization and Subsidies

PM Briceño’s Administration is supporting our critical economic sectors during this global fuel crisis. They are making decisions which will have positive impact and support for economic recovery. This will keep Belizeans in jobs.

• About 5000 sugar cane farmers and citrus farmers are included in the productive sector fuel subsidies from the Government to lower this critical input cost.

• $1.6 million Fuel Subsidy Program for the benefit of 93 bus operators and 70 thousand commuters.

• 185 tour and tender operators, mostly micro, small and medium-sized enterprises benefit from tourism fuel subsidies.

• 80% of our transportation sector - public and private - use diesel and regular fuel/ gas.

• At least, $9Million of Government revenues foregone with the drastic reduction of fuel excise tax on diesel and regular fuel.

7 AUG

2022

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THE BELIZE TIMES

"LEARNING TO GROW PROSPERITY" Legacy Belize Hon. Alex Balona: It was an honor and pleasure being a part of today's(July 23) program at Hillview Park, Santa Elena with Legacy Belize!

The objective of today was to sensitize the youngsters and parents of the opportunity of growing food in our backyards. Thanks to members of Legacy Belize, The Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Environment for making this a reality.

Follow up will be done with the youngsters plants by members from Legacy Belize.

The children displayed so much interest in participating in the program.

This might not be a direct consequence of planBelize but it is definitely a part of it and of a Belize that works for everyone.

Additionally, thank you to the Double Head Village Council for inviting me to be a part of their Clean Up Campaign! It was a pleasure being on the ground and supporting the community.

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given DOGREAT FINANCE S.A. commenced dissolution on 6th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given KINBAND OVERSEAS LTD. commenced dissolution on 6th July, 2022; and Soriano 1074, Montevideo, Uruguay is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given SAFERWAY TRADING CO., LTD. commenced dissolution on 11th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given ASHLAND ENTERPRISES INC. commenced dissolution on 13th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given MARGATE ASSOCIATED LTD. commenced dissolution on 20th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given SAGITTARIUS GEM LIMITED commenced dissolution on 26th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given ZODIAK CONSULT LIMITED. commenced dissolution on 26th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given LUSTRE RESOURCES INCORPORATED commenced dissolution on 27th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given NICLAS REAL ESTATE INC. commenced dissolution on 27th July, 2022; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Companies listed below have been dissolved and duly struck off the IBC Register as follows: NAME OF COMPANY ZELDA FINANCE LTD. HYDRALA UNIVERSAL INC. EIGERBAU S.A. OMEGA ASSOCIATES INC.

Date of Dissolution 2nd July,2022 9th July, 2022 15th July, 2022 26th July, 2022

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Ltd.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Kids in Action in San Pedro The Kids in Action program is coordinated yearly by the San Pedro Tour Operators Association and San Pedro Tour Guides Association. The program entails taking kids between the ages of 12 to 15 years from different schools and training them to Dive, Fish, or Snorkel. The objective of the program captures kids and ensures, the following: 1. STAY IN SCHOOL - The stay in school Assures that we give the different elementary schools the right on how to choose the kids. Some are selected by good conduct while others are selected by academic achievement. We obtain different kids and communicate with parents on how they are doing.

2. LEARN ECOLOGY - We ensure that there is a safe place for kids from different schools while they enjoy each other’s company. At the same time they learn about the ecology of the coral reef. They also get to understand and appreciate the Belize Barrier Reef. This will open their minds to protection and conservation. A popular activity chosen by them is a six hour clean up campaign.

LEARN TO DIVE - They learn to enjoy scuba. The biggest enthusiasm is learning how to conduct scuba. The kids are excited as they learn all academics and skills to scuba dive. They complete their junior open water certification from PADI .

LEARN TO FISH. The kids learn basic fly fishing techniques about the art of fly fishing including tying and making of their own fly’s. They also get to go to our flats and catch our magnificent bonefish.

LEARN TO SWIM . The kids that are a little apprehensive about diving end up learning how to be comfortable on water and enjoy swimming. This Carry’s some of the smaller kids in the group. 5 to 14 yrs .

CONTINUATION - The kids obtain the base knowledge and skills to dive and are perfect candidates for continuing programs like coral check, fish count, and even continuing to obtain advanced Open Water. Some of these kids have become dive masters, marine biologist instructors, operators and even end up owning their own operations.

The sky is the limit and we have placed the corner stone for their carriers.

In conclusion our program is two weeks during the school summer vacation. We have cho-

sen to stay with the PADI program because it’s the best choice for proper open water dive training. We use the elite of the instructors in SanPedro, Belize. PADI has been one of our biggest sponsor and best option in supporting our efforts for over 12 years by producing and donating the manuals and pictures. The San Pedro Tour Guides Association and the San Pedro Tour Operators Association would like to express their biggest thanks to PADI , DAN , SAN PEDRO TOWN COUNCIL , MINISTER ANDRE PEREZ, HOLCHAN , AMIGOS , RAMONS, many other operators and instructors for always supporting their cause.

Thank You! Billy Leslie SPTGA(via SP Town Council FB Page)

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID REPAIRS AND RESURFACING OF VARIOUS SECTION OVER A 7.5 MILES LENGTH OF EX-SERVICEMAN’s ROAD (BOOM CREEK VILLAGE ROAD) TOLEDO DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to repair and re-surface various small sections over 7.5 miles length of the Ex-serviceman’s Road (Boom Creek Village Road)), Toledo District with suitable crushed material.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors for repairs and resurfacing of small sections of Ex-serviceman’s Road, Toledo District.

The scope of works repair works on the road will include the following: 1 Clean main road of all vegetation and deleterious materials and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

2 Clean side drains –8,000 linear yards and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

3.

Drainage improvement & Culvert Installation works (Provisional item) 3 Scarify, shape and compact road surface (110,000 S.Y) as per crossfall on drawings.

4.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of subbase type material as per specifications.

5.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of crushed All-In as per specifications.

Bidders who are interested must have the financial capacity, necessary equipment, technical expertise, and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022, during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 11.15 AM local time on Tuesday, September 2, 2022, and they will be opened on the same day at 11.30 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

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2022

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THE BELIZE TIMES

United States-funded UNDP-InfoSegura Project Invests in Belize’s Future Crime Intelligence Architecture Belmopan – In support of Belize’s effort to enhance its national security and strengthen inter-agency crime-data sharing, today the U.S. Embassy presided over a donation that included a high-powered Dell server and three Dell workstations with high-quality monitors.

This equipment will support improvements in data management by the Belize Police Department and the National Forensic Science Service. The goal is to strengthen inter-agency data sharing, through the Belize Crime Observatory— the national repository of crime data and information—so that criminal investigations can be swift, thorough, and assure justice.

At the bestowal ceremony, Minister of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries Hon. Kareem Musa received the US $35,078 in Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment from U.S. Embassy representative Political-Economic Chief Andie De Arment. Implementing partner United Nations Development Program (UNDP) was represented by Belize’s Programme Officer Marilyn Pinelo-Lee. The American people funded this project through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)’s “Evidence-Based Information Management for Citizen Security in Central America and the Dominican Republic” project; implementing partner UNDP Belize procured the equipment. This collaborative effort, also known as the InfoSegura Regional Project, is an integral part of broader U.S. efforts to improve citizen security in the region. InfoSegura addresses critical needs outlined in the BCO’s Strategic Action Plan (2020-2023), which envisions the establishment of a Crime Intelligence Architecture by 2023.

U.S. Embassy Political-Economic Chief Andie De Arment highlighted, “We know that seamless communication and an established platform for intelligence sharing improves law enforcement investigations and increases the likelihood of prosecutions – ensuring justice for citizens. The ICT equipment donated to the Government of Belize today, are new resources that will give multiple agencies access to accurate, real-time information to follow the successful arc of justice from investigation to prosecution.”

Minister Kareem Musa stated, “The Ministry of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries places very high value on the relationship that has been nurtured over the years with the UNDP and USAID, through the InfoSegura Regional Project.

This ICT equipment donation builds upon previous investments made by the U.S. government to support rule of law infrastructure across multiple stakeholders. We trust that these agencies will make the best possible use of the hardware being provided, to enhance the time-

ly delivery of quality data and information on citizen security to the Belize Crime Observatory, and to advance the collaborative work towards establishing Belize’s Crime Intelligence Architecture by 2023, for the use of information in the implementation of public policies based on evidence.”

UNDP Belize Programme Officer, Mrs. Marilyn Pinelo - Lee remarked, “The United Nations Development Programme through the USAID funded InfoSegura Project has Continued on page 18

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID PAVING OF 2.2 km of GUINEA GRASS VILLAGE ROAD ORANGE WALK DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to upgrade to paved standard a 2.2 section of Guinea Grass Village Road (section passing through Village), Orange Walk District with Double Chip and Seal Treatment.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors for paving of the above-mentioned 2.2 km section road passing through Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District.

The scope of works will involve upgrading to paved standard a total of 7218 ft x 23 ft of roadway with Double Chip and Seal Treatment and will include the following: 1 Clean main road of all vegetation and deleterious materials and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

2 Clean side drains –14,437 linear feet and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

3.

Drainage improvement & Culvert Installation works (Provisional item) 3 Scarify, shape and compact road surface (18,446 S.Y) as per crossfall on drawings.

4.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of subbase type material as per specifications.

5.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of crushed All-In as per specifications.

6.

Supply all equipment, materials, and labour to apply 2 coats of chip seal treatment covering a total surface area of 18,446 S.Y. Bidders who are interested must have the financial capacity, necessary equipment, technical expertise and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022 during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 10.00 AM local time on Tuesday, September 2, 2022 and they will be opened on the same day at 10.15 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

18 PUBLIC NOTICE

Haulover Bridge Replacement Project

August 3, 2022.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing, through its construction contractor for the Haulover Bridge Replacement Project, M&M Engineering Consultants Ltd., informs the public that six extremely heavy, 100-foot-long bridge beams will be transported along the Philip Goldson Highway from Ladyville to the southern approach of the Haulover Bridge throughout the day on Sunday, August 7, 2022.

The public is advised to be vigilant and exercise extreme caution when approaching the heavy equipment transporting these reinforced concrete beams. Drivers are asked to always follow traffic warnings and the instructions of escorts as these beams may take up the entire width of the highway and the existing Haulover Bridge.

The ministry thanks the public for their kind cooperation in abiding by these safety precautions and by exercising due care and attention when encountering these extraordinary loads on the highway.

United States-funded UNDP-InfoSegura Project Invests in Belize’s Future Crime Intelligence Architecture Continued from page 17

been supporting the BCO and its key partner agencies since May 2014 through the creation, strengthening and institutionalization of the BCO, deepening the joint implementation of tools sensitive to gender, evidence-based policy and decision making and the support to a national security strategy. Since its inception the project has invested approximately US$796,000 in Belize. Donations of ICT equipment satisfy the urgent needs outlined in the BCO’s Strategic Action Plan (2020-2023) and help to lay the foundation for a sophisticated ICT framework and the realization of Belize’s multi-agency Crime Intelligence Architecture.”

The InfoSegura Regional Project continues to support interventions and policies that aim to strengthen crime investigations methodologies so that justice may be strong, swift, and accurate through a data-driven processes. The project is being funded by the United States and implemented in Belize by the UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries, through the Belize Crime Observatory.

7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

SECURITY FORCES RUNNING TEAM Price Barracks, Ladyville 28 July 2022 The Belizean Diaspora, in partnership with The Honorable Rodwell Ferguson (Minister of Youths, Sports, and Transport), donated running tennis to the competitors of the Baker to Vegas Competition, in which our security forces team participate. This gift is a token of appreciation, and was handed over at the Marion Jones Sports Complex, on Wednesday 27 July 2022. This will assist our security forces running team to maintain and improve their excellent performance.

The Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup Relay is a 120-mile foot race which begins in Baker, California and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada. The race, which began in 1985, is run by 20 person teams of law enforcement personnel. The 20 legs of the race are of varying lengths and difficulty.( lasdeliterunningteam.com) The Ministry remains committed to serving Security Forces. Members of the team are grateful for this much needed assistance.

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID MAJOR REPAIRS TO HAWKESWORTH BRIDGE (563 FT IN LENGTH) SPANNING THE MACAL RIVER, SAN IGNACIO TOWN, CAYO DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to have major repairs done on the Hawkesworth Bridge which spans 563 feet across the Macal River in San Ignacio Town, Cayo District. The Bridge is approximately 48 feet above normal water level of the Macal River.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced Bridge contractors to undertake the proposed repairs of high-level Suspension type Hawkesworth Bridge.

The scope of works repair works on the road will include the following: 1 Replacement of various metal elements of the Main Deck, Towers and Pedestrian Sidewalk of the Bridge structure such as Metal I Beams, Wind Braces, and Guardrails.

2.

Replacement of Nuts and Bolts on the Main Bridge Deck 3.

Sand blasting of sections of the Bridge 4.

Painting of the entire Bridge with a Primer and two coats of Rustoleum Paint Bidders who are interested must have the financial capacity, necessary equipment, technical expertise, and experience as Bridge Contractor to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022, during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 10.00 AM local time on Tuesday, September 7, 2022, and they will be opened on the same day at 10.15 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

7 AUG

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT BELIZE FIRST MASS SHOOTING Last weekend, there were shockwaves running rampant throughout the country.

The horrible news spread fast and furious that some bad men had kicked open a night club door and shot up the place, killing and wounding many patrons. Two were reported dead and the others hospitalized.

Of the wounded, three were police officers. This flash news was as frightening as Belizeans have ever heard, regarding the rising tide of gun violence in Belize.

The speculation was that the gun men had gone after the police, which would have been an attack against the very foundation of Belize’s society. The attack was double frightening because it took place in the peaceful, scenic village of Hopkins in the Stann Creek District.

God be praised, bad as it was bad, it was not the worst for our frightened people. It was actually the stupidity that is taking hold among certain sections of our men folk. Where ignorance, short temper and the urge to settle issues with violence is becoming a social disease. The three gunmen had gotten into a relatively minor altercation, they are reported to have left the club and returned with deadly gun fire.

Thanks to attorney Oscar Selgado who was able to convince the alleged killers to turn themselves in the following morning.

Private cell phones captured some of the moments of chaos and mayhem and showed the blood, the injured, and the dead. It could have been worse.

Belizeans have survived two years of Covid and are now facing rapid increases in cost of living, and the backlash of a deadly war between Russia and Ukraine in Europe.

Although we are strong and our resilience has seen us through, our patience with violent criminals has been stretched thin. We need an allout, massive search for solutions to this rising violent crime situation.

We have been neglecting this problem for too long.

Every problem has at least one solution. We must set about as a nation to tackle the crime situation with workable solutions. The majority of crimes are the products of social and economic problems.

We just got to do something. And that something has to be different from what we are doing year in and year out, which is not working.

We just got to do something.

THIRTY MILLION DOLLARS IN LEGAL FEES So many things have been happening in the media that a thirty-million-dollar scandal got lost in translation. The thirty million dollars is what Prime Minister Barrow is said to have paid as legal fees and costs to his brother and his ex-wife. Thirty million dollars is a lot of money. It is like precious water in a desert dry as a coconut husk.

Here is Belize, a broken, run-down, poverty-stricken country, where out of every ten Belizeans, six are poor.

Can you digest those official statistics that poverty in Belize is over 60%?

Can you imagine how many lives could be better off by the use of thirty-million dollars? The police could have all the vehicles and motorcycles they need. A dozen more high schools could provide free education. Fully equipped hospitals and clinics could have available medication and injections.

Thirty-million dollars… In the name of Almighty God, what was the last government doing with the people’s money?

And we still haven’t heard how much was paid and to which law firm, for the over 500 million dollars taken from taxpayers’ money to pay for BTL. Nor have we recovered the boledo stroke lottery so cruelly taken away by those who have used their high offices to exploit the people of Belize.

WHY OROSCO ATTACKED PASTOR WADE There will soon be a Constitutional Commission. This Commission will be responsible to either produce a new Constitution for the nation or to make amendments to the existing one to improve upon our supreme law.

The Prime Minister of Belize is in the process of appointing members based upon recommendations from groups and entities representing major sections of the country.

The gay community has already nominated their hero Caleb Oros-

19

co.

The media have nominated Pastor Louis Wade.

Within moments of Pastor Wade’s nomination being public, Orosco launched a Russian-styled attack, listing some of Wade’s more public stance against the perceived gay agenda. Orosco is clearly fearful of Pastor Luis Wade, who because of his fervent belief in Christianity, he is obliged to speak out against the gay agenda. There may be more to Orosco’s Russian-type campaign than just a clash of personalities or a clash of opposing views. Orosco has even chastised the media for nominating Pastor Wade.

A major legislation arrived out of nowhere a few years ago. It was called “Equal Opportunities Bill”. It was considered a frightening and dangerous piece of legislation by all the churches in Belize. There were many powerful entities and personalities supporting this strange piece of legislation. Pastor Wade, along with Pastor Scott Stirm and the leaders of the Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, Evangelical and Roman Catholic churches joined forces and were able to kill the bill.

The LGBTQ+1 are prominently featured as one of 21 entities and institutions which will comprise the Commission to give Belize a new Constitution. The law which governs the Constitutional Commission requires the Commission to pay specific attention to ‘gender equality’.

We are informed that is a buzzword to many religious leaders and that their fears have been arisen that the masterminds behind the EOB will find ways to advance their international and national agenda through the Constitutional Commission. The churches view Caleb’s outbursts and his vitriol against Pastor Wade as one of those things, which is ‘more than meets the eye’.

“Those with eyes to see, let them see.”

URSULA ANDREWS Ms. Ursula Andrews is the first and the only female to have been a driver for a government Minister. Recently she celebrated a milestone birthday, which caused her friends and family to recount her many achievements and goodness of her heart. Ms. Ursula works at the Belize Defence Force and has been a loyal and dedicated Public Officer who has given more than 20 years to her country.

Happy belated birthday, Ursula Andrews.

EWART GARBUTT Ewart “Chow” Garbutt originally from Punta Negra village on the scenic coast of Stann Creek, now living with his wife and children in Placencia has emerged as an unlikely hero of “If it is to be, it is up to we.” This young man organized and spear-headed a people’s environmental movement of hundreds of patriotic persons whose hard work in the sun-saved Silk Caye.

Silk Caye is a very small island some 20 odd miles from Placencia.

It was being drowned by the winds and the waves and was on the verge of being swallowed up by the sea.

Also, while the professional environmental bureaucrats attended conferences at home and abroad; the livelihood of dozens of tourists, guides and boaters was heading to the bottom of the sea. Ewart organized many like-minded folks who used their time, their expensive petrol, their boats and their hard labor and ferried rocks and materials and built a beautiful retaining wall around Silk Caye, raising it and saving it from the waves. We have seen the results. It is awesome.

Maximum respect is due to Ewart Garbutt and all those who made it possible.

THAMAR JONES SETS AN EXAMPLE Thamar Jones is a host, script writer and news reader at Love FM Television. A few days ago, she unveiled a first in a series in which she is providing inspiration and tips to students, in order for them to acquire more discipline and techniques in tackling their school work to be much better students. This is a great example of how many of us can contribute towards making our people and our country better than what it is.

“PLANT TEN THOUSAND TREES” Those words come from none other than George Price. They are the subject of an editorial in the Reporter newspaper, which opined that the advice is even more important today than when George Price first encouraged us to love nature, to do our share and to plant 10,000 trees.

20

7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Details on the National Curriculum Framework Over the past eight months, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) has been collaborating with education stakeholders to develop the National Curriculum Framework that will guide our transition to competency-based education in Belize. The framework was officially launched today.

The ministry has assembled a team of competent and experienced educators and professionals to produce the new competency-based curriculum for pre-schools and primary schools that will be based on the new National Curriculum Framework.

In sequence will be the development of competency-based unit plans and assessments, utilising authentic student- centred pedagogies such as inquiry, discovery, cooperative, experiential, problem- and project-based learning. The upcoming 20222023 school year will serve as a transition and pilot year for all pre-schools and primary schools, as well as for the high schools that decide to participate. It will also serve as an important time to continue efforts at “catching up” for students who have fallen behind due to the pandemic. All pre-schools, primary schools, and secondary schools should be following the new National Curriculum Framework by the 2023-2024 school year.

The unit plans and assessments for pre-schools and primary schools will be available to all schools via the Ministry's virtual platform, www.501academy. edu.bz as per the schedule below. The unit plans and assessments will guide teachers and principals to develop their own lesson plans for this transition year. During the 2023-2024 academic year, lesson plans will be available for teachers and principals on the virtual platform. Unit plans and assessments for preschools and primary schools will be available incrementally on the ministry's virtual platform as follows: The ministry will work closely with high schools that have an interest in commencing implementation of the National Curriculum Framework during the 2022-2023 school year. All high schools that would like to do so are asked to contact the Chief Education Officer at chief@moe. gov.bz by July 31, 2022.

In addition, in August 2022, the Teacher Learning Institute (TLI) will be offering professional development courses that will be focused on training teachers on competency-based education for pre-schools and primary schools.

The courses will cover the National Curriculum Framework, an introduction to competency-based education and how to

August 31, 2022

Unit Plans and Assessments for September and October 2022

October 31, 2022

Unit Plans and Assessments for November and December 2022

December 31, 2022

Unit Plans and Assessments for January and February 2023

February 28, 2023

Unit Plans and Assessments for March and April 2023

April 30, 2023

Unit Plans and Assessments for May and June 2023

use the unit plans and assessments to develop lesson plans. There will be ongoing training throughout the 2022-2023 academic year on these and related topics. The ministry will be partnering with Pathlight International to deliver similar courses for high schools via the TLI.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology remains committed to the objective of reforming the national curriculum so that students can gain the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed for personal and national development. The ministry is

always appreciative of the efforts of the extended education community, as together we continue to make education work for Belize.

The National Curriculum Framework document can be accessed at www.moecst.gov.bz/ media/publications.

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID BLASTING AND SUPPLY OF CRUSHED ROAD MATERIALS TO REPAIR EXSERVICEMAN’s ROAD (BOOM CREEK VILLAGE ROAD) TOLEDO DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to repair various small sections of the Ex-serviceman’s Road (Boom Creek Village Road)), Toledo District with suitable crushed material.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors to blast and crush road materials for use on repairs of small sections of Ex-serviceman’s Road, Toledo District.

The scope of works repair works on the road will include the following: 1 Clear Borrow Pit Location 2 Provide equipment and labour to drill Borrow Pit and Prepare site for Blasting 3.

Coordinate all applicable safety measures for control blasting as required by the Belize Police Dept and the MIDH 3 Blast and supply the following crushed road materials: 4,500 C.Y. of 1 ½ inch graded Limestone material 4,500 C.Y of crushed graded 3” minus subbase material 2,600 C.Y of crushed 4–8-inch graded material Bidders who are interested must have the necessary equipment, financial capacity, a licensed blaster, technical expertise, and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022, during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 2.00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, September 2, 2022, and they will be opened on the same day at 2.15 p.m. at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry established under the Financial Services Commission July 29th, 2022, Belmopan.

Today, the Financial Services Commission announces that effective July 30th, 2022 as per section 284 of the Belize Companies Act (Act No. 11 of 2022), the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry (BCCAR) is established under the jurisdiction of the Financial Services Commission (FSC). Registry services previously provided separately by domestic companies and international business companies registries, will now be delivered by the combined BCCAR. The merger of the registries’ services is a key part in the transformation and strengthening of the business environment and improving the ease of doing business in Belize. Other key components in the transformation include the enactment of a modern companies Legislation, the Belize Companies Act, 2022 (Act No. 11 of 2022), and the launching of the Online Business Registry System (OBRS) anticipated to be launched in the latter quarter of 2022 positioning Belize as a leading jurisdiction for company incorporation, starting a business, and best-inclass delivery of corporate registry services.

The public and agents that use the registry services are advised

Obituary

Alfredo Gongora

that services may be delayed in the upcoming days due to the transition and updates to the registry system.

The FSC and BCCAR will keep the public informed on further changes and development of its transformation. “The Transformation Continues”

New Chairperson Appointed for NCFC

21

Belmopan, August 2, 2022 - The Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Maria Elena Contreras as Chairperson of the National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC).

Mrs. Contreras brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge in public service to Belize. She served as a manager at the Social Security Board for many years and comes with the maturity and skills in management necessary to guide the commission forward. Her commitment to the families and children of Belize is unwavering, and her energy to coordinate and lead the NCFC is solid as proven by her record.

The ministry welcomes Mrs. Contreras and thanks her for taking on the reins at the NCFC.

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING

PROCUREMENT NOTICE Construction of One (1) Bedroom Modular Homes The Government of Belize (GOBZ), through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH), wishes to invite interested bidders to tender for the construction of one (1) bedroom modular homes in the Corozal, Orange Walk, Belize, Cayo, Stann Creek and Toledo Districts.

The requirements for this bidding process are as follows: (a) Bidders shall be registered with the MIDH. (b) Bidders shall demonstrate, by providing documentary evidence, having experience as a contractor or sub-contractor on any type of construction project over the period January 2020 to July 2022. (c) Bidders shall demonstrate, by providing documentary evidence, having satisfactorily and substantially completed a minimum of three (3) residential construction contracts during the period January 2017 to July 2022 with the following details: i. having a minimum contract value of BZ$45,000.00; ii. having a minimum residential space of 400 square feet; and iii. having completed the construction contract within a maximum timeframe of three (3) months. (d) Bidders shall demonstrate, by providing documentary evidence, having access to the following equipment: i. One (1) 3/4-horsepower concrete vibrator; (e) Bidders shall present a work plan for the contract.

Bidding documents can be obtained by request at the address below, starting Tuesday, August 2, 2022, on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. When making requests for bidding documents, bidders shall clearly indicate which of the following location packages are required: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Belmopan, Cayo District Belize City, Belize District Corozal Town, Corozal District Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District

Submissions of bidding documents shall be in English and shall be received in sealed envelopes, clearly marked “Tender - Construction of One (1) Bedroom Modular Home, (Insert Location), District”.

Bidding documents shall be delivered by hand to the address below not later than Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.

The MIDH reserves the right to accept or reject late bids or to cancel the bidding process partially or in its entirety. The MIDH will not

The People's United Party announces the untimely passing of Brother Alfredo Gongora of Dangriga Town. Br. Gongora was a true General of the revolution.

His contribution to his community and our country are nothing less than outstanding.

On behalf of our Prime Minister Hon John Briceño, DPM Hon Cordel Hyde, Chairman Hon. Henry Usher, Area Representative Hon. Louis Zabaneh, the PUP National Executive and the extended PUP family we extend sincerest condolences to his wife, children and entire family. RIP our dear brother. Till we meet again.

defray costs incurred by bidders in the preparation and submission of the bidding documents.

Further details about the bidding process can be obtained by contacting: 1. Attention: Mr. Evondale Moody Engineering Coordinator Project Execution Unit

Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing Power Lane Belmopan

Cayo District Belize, C. A Tel:

+501-828-5220

cc:

colin.escalante@midh.gov.bz

Email: peu@midh.gov.bz

22

7 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

Crooked Tree girls win Hon. Marconi Leal softball marathon

2022 REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

The Government of Belize (GOB) through the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment intends to contract a team to form a Central Execution Unit (CEU) to Manage the design, execution and monitoring of IDB financed projects in accordance with Government-defined policies and strategic planning.

The CEU’s mission should be to provide assistance, when needed, and ensure their alignment with the sector policies established by the Government through the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment (MFEDI). It also seeks to lend efficacy to the portfolio of IDB financed projects by generating synergies and interactions and facilitating a rapid execution, as well as securing adherence and congruence with national public policies.

Sand Hill Village, July 31, 2022 The Crooked Tree ladies won Hon. Marconi Leal softball marathon which concluded in Sand Hill Village, to claim the $500 first prize on Sunday evening, July 31.

In Game 1 of the morning, Double Head Cabbage ‘Unity” ladies hammered the Bermudian Landing Legends: 13-0, led by their pitcher Annette Morey who struck out 3 batters and gave up no hits. The DHC diamond made two errors, but Bermudian Landing was forced to leave 3 runners and they scored no runs.

Pitcher Shauna Nicholas struck out 3 DHC Unity batters, but she also walked three batters and the Legends’ diamond made 4 errors. Elma Wade led the attack, as she and Stephanie Talbert, Kaylie Mcfadzean and Francine Moralez scored 2 runs each. Kaylie also hit an out of the park homer to help Ranisha Rhaburn, Kariel Kelly, Brentlee Garcia, Ashanti Villanueva and Ardeth Kelly score a run each.

In Game 2, DHC Unity eliminated the Gardenia girls: 12-2, relegating them to 3rd place. The Unity ladies collected 10 hits off Gardenia’s pitcher, who also walked 3 batters while the diamond made 8 errors.

This allowed Ranisha Rhaburn and Francine Morales to round the bases twice while Elma, Brentlee, Mary Flowers, Kaylie, Ardeth Kelly, J. Flowers and A. Marin each scored a run.

DHC’s pitcher Annette Morey struck out 5 batters, and the diamond made 2 errors, allowing Liney and Jay to score a run each for Gardenia.

In Game 3 the championship final, the Crooked Tree ladies walloped DHC Unity: 15-1, as their winning pitcher Amber Wade gave up 4 hits, with no walks or strikeouts. The Crooked Tree diamond made only one error, forcing DHC Unity to leave 3 runners on base, and only Kaylie McFadzean scored for Double Head.

The Crooked Tree ladies collected 12 hits off Annette Morey’s pitching. Morey struck out 3 batters, but walked 4, and the DHC diamond made 6 errors, allowing Amber Wade, Shara Robinson, and Dian Baldwin to each round the bases thrice. Sherelee Nicholson and Eyvette Flowers each scored 2 runs, while Kamanie Gilletet and Shara Robinson scored a run each.

Hon. Marconi Leal presented the $500 first prize to Crooked Tree and the $250 2nd prize to the DHC Unity ladies. Gardenia had to settle for 3rd place, and Bermudian Landing finished 4th.

VACANCY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AT DAVILA’S CLINIC ULTRASOUND

GENERAL DOCTOR

Interested candidates must possess a curent Police Record and have valid Social Security Card.

Applicants can email resume and pertinent documents to: bgdavilasclinic@gmail.com

The CEU will be led by an Executive Director who will providing leadership, coordination and guidance on all matters pertaining to the preparation, design, planning and smooth administration and successful implementation of assigned Programs/Projects through the efficient management of the Central Executing Unit (CEU) in accordance with the Program Operations Manual (POM) of the CEU and the procedures and obligations specified in the relevant loans contracts and technical cooperation and/or other relevant administrative Agreements.

The other team members will include the following members 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Vacant Posts Procurement Specialist (I) and (II) Financial Management Specialist Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist Environmental and Social Specialist Administrative Officer

Remuneration: Competitive salary and benefits are offered, commensurate with academic level, work experience and other relevant strengths of the winning candidate.

Kindly follow the below link for further details. https://med.gov.bz/ Interested candidates are requested to submit ONE PDF File that shall include: a) Letter of Interest indicating the post being applied for; b) the curriculum vitae, c) copies of university degrees, and d) the names of 3 references.

Deadline for application is 11th August 2022 at 4:00pm. Application can be sent via email to: Irelandde@gobmail.gov. bz or hand delivered to the address indicated below: Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Economic Development Sir Edney Cain Building Ground Floor, Right Wing Belmopan City, Belize C.A. Any request for clarification should be sent via email no later than 5th August 2022. Responses will be provided within three days.

7 AUG

23

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022 (A Reflection only)

Upliftment through Decades of Hard work

By Hon. Gilroy Usher, Port Loyola The two pictures below portraying myself as a craboo vendor were taken on Monday August 1st, Emancipation Day, in Belize City in front of the new supermarket that was formally the popular Malic Supermarket opposite the Transport Department formerly Novelo's Bus Terminal.

The pictures serve as a reminder to myself and all other persons that I worked hard to uplift myself and my family. They also serve to remind the youths that they can also uplift themselves and their families with handwork and ambition.

About forty years ago in an effort to provide my family with a better life, for at least five years I became one of the biggest craboo vendors at the corner of Albert St. and Orange St. in the old capital.

In those days, I bought buckets of craboo from wholesalers at the then Queen Square Market and, at the then, Novelo's Bus terminal and retailed them $1.00 per bag on Albert St. On a good day, I sold approximately 6 buckets of craboo, with the assistance of several youths who got their first employment with me.

In those days, some of the main craboo vendors on Albert St. were Shine, Big George, Pecker, Craboo Jo, and Ernesto Will, all deceased.

There were also several craboo vendors on Albert St. from San Antonio village in the Cayo District, as well as a gentleman from Jane Usher who now sells tamales at the bus terminal and at 88 Grocery Store on C.A. Blvd.

CALL FOR PROPOSALS Consultancy to Develop a National Rural Development Strategy for Belize 1. PURPOSE The Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour & Local Government’soverarching ission is to contribute to Belize’s sustainable development by providing effective labour administration services, strengthening local governments, and facilitating an enabling environment for rural development.

The Ministry of Rural Transformation has embarked on developing a new National RuralDevelopment Strategy (NRDS) that is both area-based and multi-sectoral. the NRDS would aim to alleviate the current ad hoc approach to rural development by establishing a multi-sectoral andcoordinated approach to not only reducing rural poverty but also improving rural residents’ cultural, social, political, and environmental well-being.

2. CONSULTANCY OBJECTIVES: The objective of the consultancy is to develop a national rural development strategy for Belize thatwill serve as a national framework to guide the rural sector’s development process by clearly identifying development strategies that result in poverty reduction and rural economic growth while enhancing local culture and conserving critical environmental resources.

3. SCOPE OF SERVICES To develop the strategy, the Consultant will conduct the following: a) At a high level, engage directly with relevant line Ministries for assessment and planning of the strategy framework. b) Assess the implementation deficit of the previous BRADS and identify lessons learned. c) Carry out a situational analysis of the social, economic and natural environment conditions of the rural sector based on an informed delineation. The issues to be considered/reported upon in the analysis should include, but not necessarily be limited to the following: i.

Economy – identify critical elements of the rural economy including production, emerging commodities, off-farm employment, tourism, eco-tourism, main employers, livelihoods, labour force participation and overall economic opportunities. Establish clear linkages to the private sector and value chains for whatever opportunities that exist in various sectors. ii. Social development – produce a sex-disaggregated profile of the rural sector. Describe the supply and demand of health and education services, educational achievement, multidimensional poverty, and other relevant social issues of concern. iii. Infrastructure – identify needs and gaps in infrastructure including roads and public utilities that impact on the efficiency of production and quality of rural life. iv. Environment and natural resources – identify the state of the environment, degradation risks, resources for production inputs and climate change risks. d) Review secondary data including reports, studies, assessments, and relevant policy and legal documents including poverty assessments, census reports, labour surveys, etc. e) Collect primary data through participatory consultations with all categories of stakeholders in order to introduce the initiative, obtain feedback and gauge perception of need and strengthen buy-in. f) Prepare, validate, and submit a National Rural Development Strategy to the Ministry.

4. SUPERVISION/PROCESS MANAGEMENT The Consultant will report to the Chief Executive Officer or his designate. The Rural DevelopmentDepartment’s staff will assist the Consultant in coordinating activities such as meeting planning, stakeholder workshops, interaction with government Ministries and agencies, and general administrative matters.

5. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND DELIVERABLES The Consultant shall prepare and submit all reports in English. A soft and hardcopy of all reportsare to be submitted to the Ministry.

Main tasks

Payment

Timeframe

Inception Report and Work Plan

20%

One week after signing

Situational Analysis Report Draft of National Rural Development Strategy

25% 30%

One month aftercommencement Three months aftercommencement

Final National Rural Development Strategy

25%

Five months aftercommencement

6. DURATION OF CONSULTANCY 5 months (August – December 2022) 7. TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION Consultant will be expected to travel to locations for meetings and consultation sessions as agreedupon by both parties. The Consultant’s fees will be inclusive of travel and accommodation costs.

8. QUALIFICATIONS • The consultant must have the following qualifications and experience: • Minimum of a master’s degree in Rural Development, Local Economic Development, Sustainable Development, Agriculture Economics or any disciplines directly related to theConsultancy.

• At least 10 years’ experience in local economic, rural development or community development planning.

• Extensive knowledge of rural community development, public policy, poverty reduction, climate change adaptation, gender and equity approach to programming.

• Broad experience in facilitating extensive stakeholder consultations with government representatives, private sector, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

• Proven technical report-writing (English), analytical, communication, and project management skills.

9. INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICATION: Technical proposals must demonstrate relevant local or regional experience, appropriate knowledge, skills, and academic qualifications, approach and methodology, and a preliminary work plan. Financial proposals should include consultant costs such as fees, travel, and accommodation. The Ministry will cover the costs of meetings and workshops.

The full Terms of reference may be requested by writing to us at Coord.Rural.Dev@labour.gov.bz.

Technical and financial proposals must be submitted to: Elsa Cardinez Coordinator for Rural Development Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local GovernmentEmail: Coord.Rural.Dev@labour.gov.bz Subject: “National Rural Development Strategy for Belize” All submissions must be made by 12th August 2022 at 4:00pm

24

THE BELIZE TIMES

7 AUG

2022