Belize Times March 5, 2023 - PlanBelize Positivity

The Belize Times

PlanBelize

INSPIRING POSITIVITY

FINANCIAL, SOCIAL, BILATERAL, GOVERNANCE, POLITICAL ETC.

Belize WINS…MCC RECOGNIZES PLANBELIZE DEMOCRACY was the December 19, 2021 headline. The media in Belize was hardly moved. Here at the Belize Times we know the Truth when we see it. The Millennium Challenge Corporation had recognized what the UDP and followers(all 7 of them) could not. The MCC has a blueprint criteria and planBelize was the carbon copy. “These (selected) governments have demonstrated a clear commitment to democratic governance, investing in people, and pursuing economic freedom. We look forward to working together to develop programs that reduce poverty and enable sustainable and inclusive economic growth.” Just around this time in 2021 Destiny Wagner had just won Ms. Earth which is comparable to winning the Ms. Universe. Belize had negotiated the Blue Bond ultra-successfully which is conservation-debt reduction unparalleled and thus par world excellence. Governments and Organizations from all continents have invited John Briceño and economic team in a …How-did-you-do-it frenzy? And a, please show me, or, if

not, When can we meet you, Prime Minister? Let’s go to Belize is the world trend at the moment.

Today, fourteen months later Belize is still on an upswing as it has never been before in its forty plus years of Independence. Being recognized, lauded, trusted, followed are fruits of planBelize and the Briceño team’s enterprising spirit. Our naysayers have disappeared. The opposition appears once in a while when their 08-20 corruption continues to be exposed in a never-ending rusty chain. Otherwise, planBelize is throttling on all its cylinders. When the Briceño administration needs to change oil it is a smooth undertaking and we continue going forward unhindered. The United States has noticed and the picture-taking besides Prime Minister Briceño and team is incessant just like the Taiwanese. Everyone wants a piece of this positivity. Everyone wants to be beside success. If you know John Briceño, you will know that he wants

March Women’s Month: #embraceEquity

PM BRICEÑO ALL OVER BELIZE

MCC Signing with US Ambassador Quan

Pg. 2

Pg. 5

“These (selected) governments have demonstrated a clear commitment to democratic governance, investing in people, and pursuing economic freedom. We look forward to working together to develop programs that reduce poverty and enable sustainable and inclusive economic growth.”

– Millennium Challenge Corporation Criteria

‘People who keep our lights on'

PlanBelize INSPIRING POSITIVITY

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more and more for our people. He will be unrelenting until poverty is eradicated from Belize. He will not rest until every Belizean truly wins—Education, Job, Land, Home, and Health are the fuel for planBelize and the PUP commitment to Serve the People until Belize is working for everyone.

So you name the field and Belize is excelling there at a rate never been seen before. Take Governance…Belize as a nation is in the midst of a widespread consultation not only to improve planBelize but to improve its governance so that we can grow, improve and create a better quality of life for everyone.

Take finance and wow…the marvels of negotiating and lowering of the GDP to debt ratio to a level the IMF could not believe. But Belize did it. Belizeans sacrificing did it in record time and now they will get even their increments back. All in due time or before.

Go to the planBelize website and you will see how, like clockwork, the promises are being carried out. All are almost done. Some will see fruition sooner rather than later.

As you cross over the old Haulover bridge. Look at the construction and SMH. Shake your head and think…the UDP were going to bamboozle the people out of millions had they been voted into office again. The Haulover replacement will forever be a symbol of how Belize turned away from the gloom-and-doom UDP to bloom-and-boom PUP.

Government of Belize and the Millennium Challenge Corporation Sign Grant Agreement for Compact Development Funding

The Government of Belize and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a U.S. government agency, signed a Compact Development Funding Grant Agreement today.

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño signed on behalf of the Government of Belize and Jonathan Brooks, Deputy Vice President of Europe, Asia, Pacific, and Latin America, signed for MCC. U.S. Ambassador Michelle Kwan and Ministry of Economic Development CEO Dr. Osmond Martinez also attended the signing ceremony.

The Government of Belize and MCC are working in partnership on the development of an MCC compact. MCC compacts are five-year grant programs that aim to reduce poverty by increasing economic growth. Based on an analysis of the constraints to economic growth, MCC and the Government of Belize agreed to focus compact development on two key constraints to sustainable and inclusive growth in Belize:

• Education: Low quality of education has led to a shortage of trained professionals in all industries.

Cabinet Brief

Belmopan, 2nd March 2023.

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met on 28th February 2023.

o Cabinet discussed at length the global issue of inflation which has increased supply costs and, subsequently, the cost of goods and services locally. Despite government subsidies to the productive and transportation sectors, an increase in the minimum wage, and an employment boom, the cost of living continues to affect all Belizeans. A decision was taken to immediately convene a Cabinet sub-committee chaired by Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise, to (1) explore a short-term framework to alleviate the impacts on those most affected and (2) to explore any and all angles, including legal, to put an end to price gouging.

• Cabinet welcomed the offer from the Joint Unions to assemble a team that will actively assist with monitoring processes in stores to detect instances of price gouging. This is another demonstration of the government’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the unions for the good of our nation and all our people.

• Cabinet gave its support to a joint undertaking between the Ministry of Health & Wellness and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology, to promote healthy foods in schools in Belize. This is in response to the escalating health issues brought about by the availability of unhealthy food options for schoolchildren and adolescents. This may result in the gradual banning of unhealthy foods and sugar-sweetened beverages in our schools.

• Cabinet gave its approval for a package of amendments to legislation to be introduced at the next sitting of the House of Representatives in connection with the modernization of tax administration with respect to laws regarding anti-money laundering, combatting the financing of terrorism, and proliferation financing in Belize.

• Cabinet gave its approval for government to enter into two loan agreements with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The first is for BZ$10 million to support the rehabilitation of 43.5 miles of rural roads in furtherance of the Resilient Rural Belize Program. The second loan agreement is for BZ$2.4 million to meet additional costs for the Belize Social Investment Fund to cover costs associated with four outstanding community projects, namely, Corazon Creek Technical High School building, Cristo Rey R.C. Pre-Primary and Primary School Construction Sub-Project, the continuation of the Libertad/Concepcion Rural Water System, and the Dorothy Menzies Child Care Center buildings.

• Finally, Cabinet wishes all Belizeans a safe and happy National Heroes and Benefactors Day.

• Electricity: High cost of electricity drives up input costs for all industries.

The Government of Belize submitted two concept papers to MCC that described the strategic approach and general activities that the Government of Belize would like to undertake through a compact program with MCC to address the selected constraints. The objective of the proposed Education Project is to increase the availability of post-primary graduates with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values relevant to current and anticipated labor market demands by promoting universal access to secondary education, transforming teaching and learning, and reducing skills gaps in

United States Donates Cessna Caravan Aircraft

Ladyville – The Government of the United States donated a Cessna Caravan 208 aircraft to the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security at a handover ceremony today at the Williamson Hanger Complex in Ladyville. The aircraft was donated by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) through the United States Foreign Military Financing program.

The handover ceremony included remarks from Prime Minister John Briceño, U.S. Ambassador Michelle Kwan, Minister of National Defence and Border Security Hon. Florencio Marin, and Brigadier General Azariel Lo-

key growth industries.

The objective of the proposed Electricity Project is to decrease the wholesale cost of electricity and ultimately the retail tariff by improving governance capacity; supporting Belize to implement its utility-scale renewable energy expansion plans; and enabling the government, businesses, and households to make investments in distributed generation and improve energy-efficient practices. The Compact Development Funds will be used to assist Belize in further developing a compact and will support project definition, project development (data collection, activity design, and feasibility studies), and administrative costs. As the compact is still in development, the total compact funding amount has not yet been determined.

The Government of Belize has established a project development unit— the Belize Compact Development Team—under the Ministry of Economic Development to work with MCC on developing the compact. The goal is to develop a high-quality, evidence-based, and sustainable program aimed at addressing the education and electricity constraints in an inclusive manner that drives growth and reduces poverty.

serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

Founder: Rt. Hon. George Cadle Price, People’s United Party Leader Emeritus

LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD

March is Women’s Month and there are many important contributions to Belizean History that must be recognized as well as current impacts being made on all fronts by Belizean women. The theme this year is #EmbraceEquity which is a call for the leveling of the playing field for women in all areas of our society, but particularly in access to health, employment prospects, opportunities for education, and access to justice, safety, and security, housing and human rights. In each of these areas, the Briceño administration has made progress, and there are many more policies and government initiatives that will pave the way for Belizean women to be full partners in guiding our development, governance, and productivity.

Land access and home ownership are important for wealth creation, stability, and development for families, especially single-parent families. It is a hallmark of this government that they have ensured single mothers, women, and other vulnerable groups participate in those programs. Mortality rates associated with childbirth and pregnancy have drastically reduced, but gender-based violence continues to plague our society driven by biases, discriminatory attitudes, and misogynistic culture. Those no longer serve a purpose in the modern Belizean society that this government has envisioned in PlanBelize and toward which all efforts are focused. Already changes this year that seek to advance the participation of women by removing gender-specific taxes will take effect as of the new fiscal year when import duties and general sales tax will be removed from all sanitary napkins and tampons. The initiative comes from a young woman Ms. Seidy Quetzal who decries government should not tax her femininity.

While there are those who continue, for their own purpose, to stifle women’s rights and freedoms, this government seeks to empower them. The full realization of the potential of women can only come from policies that level the playing field for women and allow them to catch up with their male counterparts. In Belize there is still a wage gap and women are often passed over for promotions, raises, and equal pay for equal work. Most Belizean women are also further burdened with unpaid work as they alone shoulder the responsibility for the care of young children and older family members. Still, there are some women that despite these obstacles make a tremendous difference and have positive impacts in their own spaces and areas of influence.

In recognition of such women, the National Women’s Commission hosts their annual awards event during Women’s Month and recognizes their contributions, and honours them. There is a national calendar of events that celebrates Belizean Women, encourages them to become more involved, inspires young women, and provides for outreach and advocacy on many topics of interest for women. Women are half the population of Belize, are a force in the economy, and are the surest way to increase productivity and raise the standards of living in Belize. It is in everyone’s best interest to ensure that they have equal access to all the rights, freedoms, and opportunities and that requires that at this time they be afforded additional support and encouragement to catch up.

EDITORIAL en Español

IGUALDAD DE CONDICIONES

Marzo es el Mes de la Mujer y hay muchas contribuciones importantes para la historia de Belice que deben ser reconocidas, así como los impactos actuales que se están haciendo en todos los frentes por las mujeres de Belice. El tema de este año es #EmbraceEquity, que es un llamamiento a la igualdad de condiciones para las mujeres en todos los ámbitos de nuestra sociedad, pero especialmente en el acceso a la salud, las perspectivas de empleo, las oportunidades de educación y el acceso a la justicia, la seguridad, la vivienda y los derechos humanos. En cada una de estas áreas, el gobierno de Briceño ha hecho progresos, y hay muchas más políticas e iniciativas gubernamentales que allanarán el camino para que las mujeres beliceñas sean socias de pleno derecho en la orientación de nuestro desarrollo, gobernanza y productividad. El acceso a la tierra y la propiedad de la vivienda son importantes para la creación de riqueza, la estabilidad y el desarrollo de las familias, especialmente las monoparentales. Es un rasgo distintivo de este gobierno haber garantizado que las madres solteras, las mujeres y otros grupos vulnerables participen en esos programas. Las tasas de mortalidad asociadas al parto y al embarazo se han reducido drásticamente, pero la violencia de género sigue asolando nuestra sociedad impulsada por prejuicios, actitudes discriminatorias y una cultura misógina. Éstas ya no tienen razón de ser en la sociedad beliceña moderna que este gobierno ha previsto en el Plan Belice y hacia la que se dirigen todos los esfuerzos. Este año ya se han introducido cambios que pretenden fomentar la participación de las mujeres mediante la eliminación de los impuestos específicos de género, que entrarán en vigor a partir del nuevo ejercicio fiscal, cuando se eliminen los derechos de importación y el impuesto general sobre las ventas de todas las toallas sanitarias y tampones. La iniciativa parte de una joven, Seidy Quetzal que denuncia que el gobierno no debería gravar su feminidad.

Mientras hay quienes siguen, con su propio propósito, ahogando los derechos y libertades de las mujeres, este gobierno pretende empoderarlas. La plena realización del potencial de las mujeres sólo puede venir de políticas que igualen las condiciones de las mujeres y les permitan alcanzar a sus homólogos masculinos. En Belice sigue existiendo una brecha salarial y a menudo se pasa por alto a las mujeres para ascensos, aumentos e igual salario por igual trabajo. Además, la mayoría de las mujeres beliceñas soportan una carga adicional de trabajo no remunerado, ya que ellas solas cargan con la responsabilidad del cuidado de los niños pequeños y de los miembros mayores de la familia. Sin embargo, hay algunas mujeres que, a pesar de estos obstáculos, marcan una enorme diferencia y tienen un impacto positivo en sus propios espacios y áreas de influencia.

En reconocimiento a estas mujeres, la Comisión Nacional de la Mujer organiza su acto anual de entrega de premios durante el Mes de la Mujer y reconoce sus contribuciones y las honra. Hay un calendario nacional de eventos que celebra a las mujeres beliceñas, las anima a implicarse más, inspira a las jóvenes y ofrece actividades de divulgación y defensa sobre muchos temas de interés para las mujeres. Las mujeres constituyen la mitad de la población de Belice, son una fuerza en la economía y la forma más segura de aumentar la productividad y elevar el nivel de vida en Belice. Redunda en interés de todos garantizarles la igualdad de acceso a todos los derechos, libertades y oportunidades, y eso requiere que en estos momentos se les preste un apoyo y un estímulo adicionales para ponerse al día.

United States Donates Cessna Caravan Aircraft to the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security

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ria. Other Cabinet ministers in attendance included Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration Hon. Eamon Courtenay, Minister of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation Hon. Andre Perez, Minister of the Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform Hon. Henry Charles Usher, and Minister of Sustainable Development Hon. Orlando Habet, Minister of Rural Transformation Oscar Requena, and Minister of State in the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security Oscar Mira.

This US $7.84 million donation will modernize the interdiction capabilities of the Belize Defense Force Airwing, making Belize better equipped to assist with reconnaissance, search and rescue, and military operations throughout the country. The donation package also includes training, spare parts, and on-site maintenance support.

Speaking at today’s donation ceremony, U.S. Ambassador Michelle Kwan underscored, “This latest donation from the American people is a powerful invest-

Embracing Equity

International Women’s Day is observed annually on March 8th. The entire month of March is now dedicated to highlighting the importance of women and raising awareness of gender equality. This year’s campaign theme is #EmbraceEquity.

I want to encourage all women, this month especially, but also beyond, to not just think and say these words but to actually do it. These two words are very powerful, especially when combined. We must take a minute to sit down and fully understand the meaning before we can value and believe in them. Embrace means to hold closely and Equity means to be fair and impartial. Therefore, the two words combined simply mean to hold closely to fairness and impartially. In other words, this theme is telling us that as a society we need to create a world that revolves around inclusivity. We must start to acknowledge the inequities we as women are facing and actively work to balance them. As women, we must become way more proactive in every aspect of community development if we want to achieve gender equality. Women must advocate to educate and inspire our women and girls. We must change the mindset of families and society as to what girls can and cannot do, but most importantly, we must get more women into power. Women must be involved in all aspects of decision making for this country if we want to truly grow towards achieving gender equality. The only way we will ever be able to achieve gender equality is by empowering women through the process of equity.

This March, as we celebrate International Women’s month, let us actively, together, support and embrace equity within our own environment, whether it be in the work-place, classroom, church or at home. We all must play our part to impact positive change. Embrace equity today and always. #EmbraceEquity

ment in the future of the Belize Defence Force and the Belize interagency. We are proud to partner with Belize in our shared pursuit of secure borders and regional stability.”

Minister Marin further noted, “The aircraft will improve our readiness and effectiveness in combatting current and future threats to our nation’s security.”

The U.S. Foreign Military Financing program is a Department of Defense program designed to improve the defense capabilities of partner nations to help contribute toward common security goals in the region. Last year, the United States provided US $1.6 million in security assistance to Belize through the program, which has included vehicles, training, and communication systems.

DIGITAL CONNECT IN SAN ESTEVAN

Today, BELTRAIDE, under the Building Resilient MSMEs - Accelerating Digitization Project, in collaboration with the E-Governance and Digitalization Unit, and the United Nations Development Programme, launched a Digital Connect Center in San Estevan, Orange Walk.

It’s the first of six centers that will be established in the country.

BELTRAIDE under the Building Resilient MSMEs- Accelerating Digitization Project, in collaboration with the E-Governance and Digitalization Unit (EGDU), and our partner, the United Nations Development Programme are implementing Digital Connect Centers across the country for communities in need of technological assistance.

The Digital Connect Centers are spaces where citizens and entrepreneurs can access business development information, connect with government agencies, improve their technological capacities and engage with others through mentorship or advisory services. The Digital Connect Centers will connect rural entrepreneurs to BELTRAIDE's Virtual Knowledge Center (VKC) platform that provides access to training materials for enterprise growth and innovation, an MSME Directory, a Job Portal and access to other support services and catalogues. Additionally, the Centers will provide youths and elders with the tools to undergo digital skills and literacy training.

USAID-Funded InfoSegura Project Supports Citizen Security in Belize through the Judiciary

Belmopan – Continuing U.S. government efforts to support improvements in Belize’s citizen security, U.S. Embassy Acting International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Coordinator Mary Walz and United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Belize Deputy Resident Representative Ian King today donated eight laptops to Chief Justice Louise Blenman and Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser.

The laptops donated to the Magistracy Department of the Judiciary of Belize will help Magistrates access the Judiciary’s Case Management Systems to reduce Belize’s criminal case backlog, which has significantly declined thanks to committed U.S. support. The equipment, valued at US $13,528.00, is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and procured through UNDP. This collaborative effort is made possible through USAID’s “Evidence-Based Information Management for Citizen Security in Central America and the Dominican Republic” project, also known as the InfoSegura Regional Project.

5 FEB 2023

PlanBelize fingerprints are all over this.

PM AT BEL HEADQUARTERS

PM Post “I got to visit with the team charged with the responsibility for keeping the lights turned on.

Today, I stopped in at the Belize Electricity Limited Headquarters to meet the senior management team and take a tour of the National Energy Supply Control Center.

I also shared a moment of gratitude having lunch with 19 of the longest serving employees of BEL. These employees have served over 20 years at BEL.

We thank the team and these long serving employees for the work they do to benefit country and people.

May Walz, Acting INL Coordinator underscored the importance of donor coordination in addressing Belize’s challenges. “Today’s U.S. government donation will help advance the full arc of justice in Belize – supporting everything from police professionalization to improving in-

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COUNTRYWIDE PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTY

8 ½ Miles, George Price Highway, Belize District; Belmopan, Cayo 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 properties. Sales currently running until 30th April 2023. Public Auction Sales will expire fortnightly on the dates and times listed on the website until these properties are sold.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Belmopan 20 2470

(Being a two storey concrete/timber dwelling house [1,895 sq. ft.] containing - Ground Floor: incomplete cement structure designed to be 3 bedrooms + 1 bathroom; First Floor: 3 bedrooms + 1 bathroom + living/dining/kitchen TOGETHER with Lot [7,200 sq. ft.] situate in Belmopan, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. Fermin Cal.)

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 158 containing 1,013.39 S.M. situate at Mile 8.5 on the Northern Side of Hector Creek Road, George Price Highway, Belize District of Belize more particularly shown and described in a subdivision Plan of Survey by A. R. Marin, Certified Land Surveyor, recorded at The General Registry in Surveyors Plan Book No. 6 at Folios 170 as Lot No. 158 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon and Lot No. 8 containing 764.041 square meters situate at Mile 8 ½ George Price Highway, Belize District and more particularly delineated and described as shown on plan by Licensed Surveyor Cyrus Samuels and recorded at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys at Entry No. 3255, Register No. 21 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Being a fabulous 2 Storey concrete dwelling house [5,110 sq. ft.] containing 4 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + living/dining/ kitchen/laundry/game + 2 porches + POOL situate at Lot Nos. 158 & 8 Sun Set Park, Paradise Village, 8 1/2 Miles on the north side of George Price Highway, Belize District, the freehold property of Mr. Lawrence Ellis and Mrs. Kimberly Ellis)

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE”

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH

KEVIN A. CASTILLO

TELEPHONE: 223-4488

Website: belizepropertyauctions.com

Email: kevinacas@yahoo.com

Facebook: Belize Auctions

1. Parcel No. 2470 Belmopan, Cayo District:

Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact Development Funding

Signing Agreement: Biltmore, Belize City

Remarks by

Prime Minister of Belize, HON. JOHN BRICEÑO

March 2, 2023

Good Evening,

I am happy to join you today at the signing of the Compact Development Funding Agreement. You know, Ambassador Quan, I clearly remember the day the news came down that Belize was chosen as a recipient of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. It was a December and Cabinet was having its Christmas lunch and I was pulled out from the festivities by my Cabinet Secretary and handed the phone only to hear this good news. Obviously, it was my first Christmas gift, a present for the Belizean people.

Since then, we have made remarkable progress in preparing for the work ahead. I am sure all of you here are aware off this, but I feel it is worth repeating. The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), is a US Government-funded agency that provides grant funding to countries for programs to reduce poverty through economic growth.

Belize was one of only two countries that were chosen in 2021. We were selected because, although early in our administration, we were seen as an administration that was showing our commitment to improving democracy, reducing rising poverty rate, addressing the significant challenges to economic growth, & mitigating vulnerability to external shocks. These are all actions that fulfil the criteria to qualify a country for grant funding by the MCC.

As we continue with the work ahead, we will continue to develop projects, and design and implement these projects based on economic priorities which are set out in PlanBelize. Already we have started work on the diagnostic process known as the constraint analysis. This was done by interacting with government as well as key stakeholders from various sectors. In so doing, we are making the process more inclusive. Greater inclusion we believe will make the process more competitive. In the end, we are doing everything possible to ensure that everyone can contribute and, as such, share in the ownership our national development. We are convinced that well planned and robust stakeholder involvement at this phase of our efforts sets a strong foundation, in project design that will lead to a solid Implementation phase with meaningful input and engagement. All this is in line with MCC's project design, something we believe will help us achieve our objectives.

The Government of Belize and MCC will finalize the development of an MCC compact. MCC compacts are fiveyear grant programs that aim to reduce poverty by increasing economic growth. Based on an analysis of the constraints to economic growth, MCC and the Government of Belize agreed to focus compact development on two key constraints to sustainable and inclusive growth in Belize:

1. Education: Low quality of education that has led to a shortage of trained professionals in all industries.

2. Electricity: High cost of electricity drives up input costs for all industries.

Cabinet approved two Concept Papers which were submitted to MCC that the Government of Belize would like to undertake through a compact program with MCC. The objective of the proposed Education Project is to increase the number of our young people graduating from secondary and tertiary school. This is how we will broaden our skills base, change attitudes and values, and provide relevant education that will cater to current labour market demands. This will help us to fulfill our commitment to provide universal access to secondary education. It will transform how our teachers teach and how our students learn. Most important, it will reduce the skills gaps in key growth industries.

The Electricity Project is to decrease the wholesale cost of electricity by improving governance capacity; supporting Belize to implement its utility-scale renewable energy expansion plans; and enabling the government, businesses, and households to make investments in distributed generation and improve energy-efficient practices.

The Government of Belize’s project development team which is working out of the Ministry of Economic Development will continue to work with MCC on developing the compact.

Ambassador Quan, please express our great appreciation to President Biden and your government. To the MCC delegation present here today, please express to your Board our sincere thanks for signing this second agreement for the Compact Development Funds.

I thank you.

BCC LAUNCHES YOUTH CONNECT STUDENT HUB

Another manifesto promise came to fruition today! Under the guidance of Councillor Deannie Requena who holds the portfolio of After School Programs, today we launched our Youth Connect Student Hub at the Belize City Hall with support from our Child Advisory Body (CAB) of Belize City and our Youth Shadow Council.

This hub will provide city students with a safe space to seek tutoring, homework assistance and mentoring. Our youth will have access to the internet, computers, printers, stationery and other equipment needed to conduct research, study and complete quality assignments.

We are excited to announce that our student hub is now open, ready and equipped to provide students

WAVE AND HOTP

Accused of

PRESS RELEASE

Statement on Comments on Television Show and Social Media

Belmopan, March 2, 2023.

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Transport has been made aware of a post on a Facebook page operated by Hot Off The Press, and also commentary on Wave Radio’s morning show, in which a minister of government is accused of blatant corruption, i.e. attempting to use public monies to install 25 A/C units at a hotel allegedly owned by the said minister, who was unnamed in the post.

For the record, there is absolutely no truth to the information contained in the post, nor in what was stated on Wave Radio. Ten A/C units were purchased by the Ministry of Transport to be placed at the ministry’s offices in the south. All A/C units have been installed.

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Transport intends to pursue every legal avenue to bring action against the owner/operators of the blog, as well as against Wave Radio, for the clear slander of a government minister, and by extension the entire Government of Belize, without any basis in fact.

HOT AND DEPRESSED

with the support and positive socialization they need to solidify their foundation for learning and success!

~Your Belize City Council … Always ‘Bout The People

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.

–

Lying - "absolutely no truth to the information" on post and stated on radio

The PCC Consultation at UB

The Constitution Commission Forum at the University of Belize Belmopan Campus

PCC Members met with Students to discuss the role and goal of The People’s Constitution Commission and Secretariat and how the Students can be and are a vital role in this important process. The PCC is charged with taking the word out and consulting with citizens of this country on how to best update, change, amend the Constitution of Belize. Everyone should take the opportunity to getting their voice heard and taken into account. Please know that once you state your opinion, the commission pools it and then uses it in the greater scope of decision making. If

Belize Diaspora and Government Officials Meet in Atlanta and Tampa

USAID-Funded InfoSegura Project Supports Citizen Security in Belize through the Judiciary

Continued from page 6 vestigations and increasing prosecutions. This donation will help us use data to improve efficiency and service provision and will help further bolster ongoing efforts to reduce court backlogs and modernize Belize’s courts and to continue to improve public confidence in citizen security and effective access to justice in Belize.”

Hon. Mde Louise Blenman noted, “I am deeply grateful to USAID and Mr. Ian King for their very generous donation of eight laptops to the Magistracy. These will go a long way in assisting the learned magistrates to deliver effective and efficient justice to the people of Belize while continuing to reduce the backlog. The Judiciary looks forward to collaborating further with USAID under the able leadership of Mr. King.”

Chief Magistrate Fraser added, “The backlog initiative can only be effective if the Magistrates have the necessary tools and equipment needed to access the new case management system. Having gotten the Magistrates to be invested in the reduction of backlog of cases it has become only fitting to provide them with the needed tools to accomplish the Department’s goal. It is for this reason on behalf of the Magistracy that I am grateful for the welcome assistance of the USAID’s funded Infosegura Project through UNDP for the donation of the eight laptops to assist with this backlog initiative.”

UNDP Belize Deputy Resident Representative Ian King applauded the work of the Judiciary of Belize in its continuous effort to reduce the backlog of cases, noting the reported 40 percent decrease in criminal cases thanks to several U.S. government-funded initiatives, most notably through grants from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement. King noted that the donated computers will contribute to these efforts and will be particularly beneficial to improving case management efficiency in the Lower Courts. Mr. King thanked the USAID InfoSegura Regional Project for its valuable support in enhancing citizen security in Belize.

The InfoSegura project continues to support interventions and policies that aim to strengthen crime and justice data platforms both nationally and regionally, including working to support the formulation of evidenced-based policies and decisions. The project is implemented in Belize by the UNDP in partnership with USAID and the Ministry of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries, through the Belize Crime Observatory.

you have an opinion, you should make it be heard.

At this, it was the opportunity of the students of the University of Belize.

Prayer To The Holy Spirit

Israeli Apartheid Week is an international week of action that has taken place for the last 17 years in over 200 universities and cities around the world. It aims to raise public aware-

ness about Israel’s racial discrimination against all parts of the Palestinian people, which amounts to the crime of apartheid under international law.

In 2023, the theme of Israeli Apart-

RACISM

heid Week is People Against Apartheid, linking campaigns organizing around liberation, decolonization and racial justice – from Palestine to Black Lives Matter, across the world.

Here in Belize, we will be raising awareness about the fact that Apartheid, defeated decades ago in South Africa, is alive and well in Israel, which is enforcing a criminal racist and murderous apartheid regime on all Palestinians.

World Bank Group Sees Development Challenges in Belize

Mirage News

Belize, February 23, 2023 – Executive Directors of the World Bank Group this week completed an official visit to Belize where they saw first-hand the challenges and opportunities faced by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country. During the visit, the 10 Executive Directors met with the Prime Minister, the Honorable John Briceño, and Cabinet Ministers, visited World Bank-supported projects, and met with the private sector and the Economic Development Council.

As a small state, Belize’s challenges are multifaceted and these are exacerbated by overlapping crises – climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, among other shocks. The World Bank’s work in Belize supports the country in recovering robustly from these impacts, addressing resilience to climate change and protecting the most vulnerable. Belize is highly vulnerable to natural disasters and approximately half of the country’s population is poor.

“Belize is making progress, particularly in addressing climate change and protecting the most vulnerable, as outlined in the country’s newly launched medium-term development strategy,” said Ayanda Dlodlo, Group Spokesperson and Executive Director for Angola, Nigeria and South Africa. “Seeing World Bank’s support to the energy, blue economy, health and agriculture sectors – and how that support has positively impacted and benefited tens of thousands of households – is encouraging. We look forward to continuing our support to help Belize meet its development objec -

tives.”

During the official visit, Prime Minister, the Honorable John Briceño, remarked on the necessity of support to countries like Belize. “We are on the right track and have made great strides towards achieving our development objectives, but we need to do much more, particularly as one of the most vulnerable countries on earth,” he said.

“For that, we need the continued support of our development and knowledge partner, the World Bank, and we look forward to future engagements with the International Finance Corporation and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency.”

“Belize and the World Bank Group are companions, co-travelers on the road to achieve Belize’s great aspirations – for our country, for our people, for our climate,” the Prime Minister added, while advocating for Belize’s need for affordable finance to fight the multidimensional impacts of climate change, particularly given the country’s vulnerabilities.

The World Bank’s Executive Director for Belize, Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis and St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Katharine Rechico, noted the difficulties faced by Small States. “Though classified as a middle-income country, the realities of the multidimensional challenges faced by Belize were made clear during this visit. I am pleased that the World Bank Group is rising to the challenge and helps addressing the needs of Belize and other Small States. The institution will continue to do so.”

This visit to Belize was the first ever under the World Bank’s Executive Directors Group Travel, who also visited

two other countries in the region.

The World Bank Group Board members are collectively called the Executive Directors. The Board of Directors includes the President of the World Bank Group and 25 Executive Directors. Member countries of the World Bank Group appoint or elect Executive Directors to the Boards of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), International Development Association (IDA), International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Directors to the Board of the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).

The delegation included Ernesto Acevedo (Executive Director), Naveed Baloch (Executive Director), Miguel Coelho (Alternate Executive Director), Ayanda Dlodlo (Executive Director), Erivaldo Gomes (Executive Director), Michael Krake (Executive Director), Lene Lind (Executive Director), Katharine Rechico (Executive Director), Wempi Saputra (Executive Director), and Robin Tasker (Alternate Executive Director).

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES:

Notice is hereby given that Minfort Noel is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Red Crown Meats” located at # 31 Racecourse Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that 824 West Caribbean Investment Ltd. is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “ 824 West Caribbean Investment Ltd.” located at Cor # 50 C.A. Blvd. & Cemetery Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shamra Thompson/Tracy Ebanks are applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Trasha’s Grill” located on Airport Road, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Douglas Thompson is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Black Orchid Resort” located in Burrell Boom Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Let Belize Live

SPEECH SIX

Statement made by the Premier of Belize

Hon. George C. Price to the Fourth Committee of the United Nations

United Nations, New York November 7, 1975

Part I

Madame Chairman, distinguished delegates of the Fourth Committee, I am greatly honoured to address you in this respected forum and to convey to you the greetings and the gratitude of the government and people of Belize. We thank you for agreeing to hear the case of our small country, and we are confident that you will not turn your backs on us in our hour of need.

We in Belize regard this time as a historic moment that will help to decide whether Belize shall be free, or whether we shall be condemned to choose between an indefinite prolongation of colonialism on the one hand or dismemberment and the imposition of a new colonialism on the other.

We are heartened by the progress we have witnessed at the United Nations, where the ranks of member nations continue to swell with the admission of newly independent nations that yesterday were in the position we are in today. We welcome this development, and I take the opportunity to congratulate the distinguished representatives of Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe, Mozambique and Papua New Guinea. We wish the peoples of these sovereign States increased development, peace and prosperity.

HOPE IN THE UNITED NATIONS

Madame Chairman: the people of Belize have for many years looked to the United Nations with hope. Indeed, the United Nations helped to inspire the birth of the independence movement in Belize twenty-five years ago. Later, in 1960, we were greatly encouraged by the historic Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples (Resolution 1514 XV), and soon after this the British assured us that our country could become independent whenever it so desired. Our struggle for independence was happily conducted peacefully, and in 1964 we implemented a new constitution that gave the elected representatives of the people full control over the internal affairs of Belize. Defence and external affairs remained the responsibility of the British Government.

That constitution, like similar ones applied in other colonial territories, was meant to last a very short time -- three or four years at most. It was to be merely one other step -- the last one -- before the attainment of full independence. And yet, twelve years later, Belize remains a colony, denied its right to independence by one lingering obstacle - fear for our survival after independence, a fear engendered by the unfounded and unjust claim of Guatemala to the territory of Belize, and its thinly veiled threats to pursue this claim by force if necessary.

INTIMIDATION BY GUATEMALA

This fear of military action on the part of Guatemala is a very real fear, a fear based on substantial grounds, a fear fueled on several occasions by certain Guatemalan military movements near our borders. The Belize Government, conscious of and confident in the British commitment to defend Belize, continues to welcome whatever level of British military presence in Belize that is necessary for our adequate defence. It is therefore with my Government’s full knowledge and consent, and indeed at its request, that there has been a temporary British reinforcement in Belize, a reinforcement undertaken in response only to recent military moves on Guatemala’s part, aimed at intimidating Belize.

GUATEMALA’S CLAIM UNJUST

We in Belize, as well as an increasing number of the world’s nations, find it difficult to understand the basis of Guatemala’s anachronistic claim to Belize. Guatemala claims to be the inheritor of Spanish colonialism, although Spain never exercised effective jurisdiction over the territory. Guatemala, for her part, admits that she never occupied nor administered the territory of Belize before or after her independence from Spain. Belize has never been a part of Guatemala. Before Guatemala became an independent country, Belize existed as a distinct reality within its present boundaries.

The territory of Belize has remained inviolate since at least 1798, when the last Spanish attack on the settlement was repulsed. Indeed, the present boundaries were recognised and defined in a treaty of 1859 between Britain and Guatemala. Eighty years later, however, Guatemala laid claim to the territory of Belize on the ground that a clause in that boundary treaty had not been complied with. That clause called on both parties “conjointly to use their best efforts” to build what was described as a “cart road” between Guatemala City and the Atlantic Coast. The road was never built, and after eighty years Guatemala claimed that the non-compliance of this joint responsibility caused the entire Treaty to lapse, and that therefore the entire territory of Belize belonged to Guatemala.

The Guatemalan claim is in fact precisely what it appears to be -- entirely fictitious, entirely unfounded, entirely unjust. But I should like to stress that, absurd as Guatemala’s claim might be, the threat of a new colonialism represents a frightening reality that is having harsh consequences on the people of Belize.

Let us never forget that we are talking about more than just a piece of territory, a piece of land. We are talking about a people who constitute a distinct nation, but who are prevented from exercising their right to independence for which they have struggled for twenty-five years. (Part II of VI for this speech…Next Week)

BELIZE SALUTES SAHARAWI PEOPLE ON INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY

Belize has much in common with the African nation formerly known as Western Sahara. Belize was not alone in 1975 when it began the lobbying effort at the UN to have the peoples’ right to self-determination and territorial integrity respected. The Polisario Front representing the people of Western Sahara were also there in similar circumstances. The colonial power, Spain, was about to abandon the territory, and was in cahoots with a neighbour that claimed it, Morocco.

The British were about to abandon Belize, and were willing to give Belizean land to a neighbour that claimed it, Guatemala. The representatives of the two peoples, Belizeans and Saharawi, supported each other to win their independence. Throughout our struggle at the UN, Morocco always supported Guatemala, and they never supported Belize.

The Belizeans, with massive support from most UN members, succeeded in getting their independence with their territory intact. The Saharawis were not so fortunate. In the dying days of the Franco dictatorship, Spain facilitated the annexation of the territory by Morocco and Mauritania. The Saharawi people resisted this occupation and on 27th February 1976 proclaimed the independence of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR).

However, the state of Morocco has held on by force and violence to about 80% of the territory. Thousands of Saharawis have been killed by the Moroccan occupation forces. The Polisario Front has continued to lead their people’s struggle to end the occupation and liberate their homeland from the harsh and murderous occupier.

Morocco commits serious violations against Saharawi human rights activists, especially targeting women. It kidnaps and tortures young people and subjects them to summary trials where sentences range from life imprisonment to twenty years in prison. The theft and exploitation of its extensive natural resources are done with the approval and complicity of some of the supposed defenders of international legality.

Belizeans feel for the suffering of the Saharawi people. They know that “there but for the grace of God go I”. In 1975, the Guatemalan army was poised to invade Belize, and the British Defence Ministry feared that once they took delivery of Israeli aircraft in 1976, Guatemala’s military capacity would be “formidable.” The UK approved reinforcements in November and the threat passed.

By 1977, however, Israel had helped to arm and train the Guatemalan army, and in July that army was ready to invade. The British military in Belize warned of “the risk of a severe military reverse at Guatemalan hands” and the Minister of Defence was clear: “if the Guatemalans do attack, the colony will have become indefensible.” The US pressured the British hard not to reinforce, but Prime Minister Callaghan told his Cabinet, “It’s not the President of the United States’ head on the block if something happens. It’s mine—and yours,” and ordered massive reinforcement.

Actually, it would have been Belizean heads that would fly, and until today parts of our country could still be occupied by Guatemalan forces. We are still fighting—but peacefully, at the ICJ—to compel Guatemala to respect our territory.

This is not a matter to take lightly. Our own existence depends on respect for our right to self determination and territorial integrity, our right to keep for ourselves the territory that the colonial power occupied. We won that right. So far, the Saharawi people have not and their youth continue to sacrifice their lives to win that right for their peoples. Their struggle is our struggle. The principles they fight for are the same that made us Belizeans free and keep us alive.

The Moroccans have stepped up their diplomatic action to get nations to withdraw support from the Saharawi people, and use all manner of all means such as drugs, bribery, blackmail and espionage to achieve this, as was recently revealed by bribery scandals at the top levels of the European Union’s Parliament. This was extensively documented in the international news. They steal phosphorous, an element used for fertiliser, from occupied Saharawi territory and are brass-faced enough to use it to entice poor nations to betray the very principles that gave them birth.

Belize established diplomatic relations with the SADR on 18th November 1986, and it continues to stand firm in support of the principles on which we depend on for dear life: self-determination, territorial integrity, and end to occupation. We cannot ever compromise these principles, nor can we pretend to be neutral when these principles are under attack. Bishop Desmond Tutu, champion of the South African struggles against Apartheid, said it well: “Those who turn a blind eye to injustice actually perpetuate injustice. If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”

We salute the Saharawi people on the 47th anniversary of their declaration of independence, support them in their lawful struggle to end the occupation of their territory, and wish for them peace and prosperity in a liberated Saharawi Republic.

On Tuesday in Havana, our Ambassador Lou-Anne Burns, the dean of CARICOM in Cuba, joined other regional deans, Cuban national heroes, and other officials in congratulating the Saharawi - who are also a founding member of the African Union - on their 47th anniversary at Africa House. A few days before, on the 23rd of February, the Government of Belize gave its agrément to the appointment of H.E Mr. Sidi Mohamd OMAR to be SADR Ambassador to Belize with residence in New York. At some later date Ambassador Omar will be invited to present his credentials in Belmopan. He will be heartily welcomed.

Assad Shoman

CATTLE INDUSTRY

“Increasing productivity to meet export demand using sustainable interventions for higher profitability.”

A Reflection in Progress for the Belize Livestock Producers Association

44th Annual General Meeting’s Speech CEO for BPLA, M. Agr. Ing. Agr. William Usher 25/02/2023

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests (Ministers, CEOs, Leads of partner institutions), staff and member producers of this great livestock association. It is with great pleasure that I address you with this thought process that I wish you all to ponder on; as my goal as the new CEO of this organization is to work for you, our member owners, to attain greater productivity and profitability from the business you are engaged in as livestock producers.

Our theme for this year is

“Increasing productivity to meet export demand using sustainable interventions for higher profitability.”

Reflecting on this theme it is my desire that, the Belize Livestock Industry, which currently comprises of Beef and Dairy Cattle plus other small ruminants such as sheep and goats and pigs, should be obligated to increase its animal concentration per acre or say head of cattle per acre from 0.6 to between 3-5 heads of cattle per acre with the objective of allowing for sufficiently enough cattle to be able to have an economically viable meat processing facility for the “Green Meat” market to which Belize can be exporting to in the medium to long-term.

Within the current export market for animals on the huff and meat however, it must be understood that Belize cannot compete with the main world producers due to our high productive costs and in many instances our inferior quality meat; hence, Belize must be obligated to look into green measures for production that will allow for 1) Increase in productivity, 2) Increase in profitability, and 3) improvement of the environment in which our livestock is produced.

Pasture management, cattle rotation management, pasture soil bioremediation management and meat quality improvement through appropriate genetics built within our national livestock herd are all going to be part of the management strategy necessary for improvement in production, land/soil conservation and access to the green niche markets to which our livestock products should be destined. The allowance for sustainable pasture rotation management, can directly or indirectly enhance already proven green methods for livestock production management. That is, for reducing the extensive livestock production that currently exists in Belize to allow for the conversion of this to an intensive rotational or grazing management system. This intensive rotational grazing system will do several things: It will allow for us as a country, to determine or make a statement from NOW that our Livestock Industry will be Carbon Neutral or that our Livestock Industry will be doing what it needs to do to reduce an existing Negative Carbon Footprint.

How will this be done?

Well, we have already started! It will be done through 1) the adoption of rotational grazing system and 2) through what we also call silvo-pastoral systems; which is, a combination of trees and shrub planting that will improve or reduce the emission of greenhouse gases such as enteric methane through the consumption of these fodder within the digestive system of the animals. Both of these systems will allow for carbon sequestration through the increase growth of beneficial plants and shrubs within the livestock grazing system and through increase bioaccumulation of carbon within the soil by means of natural microbe hoarding or the sequestration of carbon. In this light, the use of beneficial microorganism is key along with the natural incorporation of organic material by the animals, YOUR LIVESTOCK, that are roaming efficiently through controlled management within that specific space where they reside, taking into consideration the impediments of climate change factors and the need for pasture regeneration.

Now, what can the government and the industry be called to do?

The government and the industry could call for the implementation of strategies that will allow for increasing the herd head count per acre. We, as an industry, need to move from 170,000 animals that we currently have in our national herd, to five times (5X) that number of animals within the same estimated 300,000 acres of land mass that exists in terms of the current productive space of cattle production at this time.

What the government will be doing essentially is to call for the development of “green bonds agreements” with its development partners.

How can we actually do this?

The cattle industry worldwide is considered to be the premier livestock industry that emits methane, a greenhouse gas, that causes major problem as it relates to global warming in the environment. We as an Industry has been seeing the effects of global warming as our pastures dry up due to lack of water and poor soil management or consumed by insects such as the froghoppers during these dry periods. We have seen the natural waters where our cattle use to drink becoming contaminated with harmful pathogens that causes our animals to be dying in many parts of the country….

ALL as a consequence of climate change due to global warming. Indirectly, we are beginning to see greater movement of predating animals such as the jaguars and coyotes now becoming increasingly interested in the affairs of our domestic livestock. Is this a matter of continual deforestation and environmental encroachment within their natural habitat or is it simply a matter of poor management of our livestock system? I will leave that question open but we must find a way to manage these problems.

What should the government do now?

It can call for improving the carbon footprint within the livestock industry. By doing such, we will enable ourselves to bring green financing through the use of green technologies for rotational grazing and the use of agro-silvo pastoral systems and in addressing the predation problems we are now seeing within our Livestock Industry. Acquiring green financing at affordable terms will then be possible for the myriad number of small and large producers as the end game is to improve what we currently have to allow for increase in productivity, which means increase in profitability within the productive space we are using while conserving the land and improving upon our current negative carbon footprint. Increasing our productive capacity per acre on the current land space and adopting green productive technology systems will allow for Belize Livestock and meats to be exported within that green market space being proposed. This will allow for anyone to be producing sustainably while greening and improving the value of our livestock industry and the products that come from it.

In conclusion, that is the concept

that we have; knowing that today, our Belize Livestock Producers Association’s vision is to be the leading advocate for developing a green livestock industry in Belize, hence, the premier organization responsible for the greening of the Belize Livestock Industry. We can only do this with both the Government of Belize and the Industry declaring… that is, declaring, that this Industry will go Carbon Neutral either now or in the very near future and to start off with a declaration that says something like this, “the Belize Livestock Industry by 2027 will be instituting measures to reduce its negative carbon foot print by ‘X’ tons of carbon per annum and within the next 10 to 15 years thereof will be a net carbon producer”.

We need that declaration and we need that declaration to be binding in time but even without it being so, we need that declaration for a time we are signing agreements with entities like the NGOs such as the Nature Conservancy, with entities like the International Development Banks such as the IDB’s and World Bank or International Financial Institutions (IFI’s) such as the Green Climate Fund, the Global Environmental Fund (GEF) and the-like throughout this world where we will be able to gather those financing to on-lend to our members within the BLPA and otherwise within Belize.

Ladies and Gentlemen, cattle producers and government, it is time we as a Livestock Industry truly start positioning ourselves to access the green meat market. To this end, we must work together as a country and as an Industry in making this happen. One voice is all we need.

Thank you!

PUBLIC NOTICE

Lodgment of an EIA Report and Public Consultation For Cockroach Caye Ltd.

For the construction of a Private Residence at Cockroach Caye – Turneffe Atoll

The General Public is hereby informed that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for a Private Residence to be located on Cockroach Caye – Turneffe Atoll, within the Belize District was submitted to the Department of the Environment (DOE) by Cockroach Caye Ltd. The EIA report will be reviewed by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee (NEAC) before a final decision is taken by the DOE.

The General Public is therefore advised that the EIA will be available for public review from February 28th to March 14th, 2023. The public is invited to submit their comments in writing before March 19th, 2023 to the DOE at the DOE address of 7552, Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan or to email envirodept@environment.gov.bz or eiaunit@environment.gov.bz, or by link: https://forms.gle/9niygtTNsWvGPSau5

The EIA-Report and its annexes can be reviewed, free of charge, Mondays to Fridays, during the normal working hours of (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) at the Leo Bradley Library (BZ City), Port Loyola Library (BZ City), the Caye Caulker Library, and the San Pedro Library. The EIA report and its annexes are also accessible on the DOE’s website at the following link: https://doe.gov.bz/environmental-clearance/

Kindly be informed that a hybrid public consultation for the EIA will be held on March 23rd, 2023, commencing at 6:30 pm at Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel. An online link will be provided near the date (March 23rd, 2023)of the Public Consultation.

The public is invited to participate in-person or virtually to this public consultation to express their concerns and/or provide comments/input to the DOE regarding this proposed project activity.

Minister Fonseca Discussing with Elders

Education and Culture in Dangriga

Minister Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science and Technology was in Dangriga at the invitation of a distinguished group of Garifuna Elders to discuss Education and Culture. We met

Belize Diaspora and Government Officials Meet in

Atlanta and Tampa

Tuesday, February 28, 2023 - The Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, through its Diaspora Relations Unit, held two Town Hall Meetings this past weekend to engage the Belizean diaspora. The first was held in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, February 25th, chaired by Ms. Erica-Antoinette Slaton and the second in Tampa, Florida on Sunday, February 26th, chaired by Ms. Aria Lightfoot (both members of the Belizean diaspora). The main objective of a town hall meeting is to connect and strengthen the relationship between Belizeans living at home and Belizeans living abroad. The events provide us the opportunity to meet with Belizeans who have an interest in collaborating to build our nation.

Government of Belize officials presented on the current developments and plans underway in Belize. Those in attendance shared their questions, concerns, opinions, and feedback on matters affecting the diaspora and the country. In addition, each attendee was automatically entered into a raffle to win baskets filled with local products, as well as a parcel of land in Belize. The land raffle will be drawn at the end of March 2023.

In Atlanta, Belize received several proclamations from the State of Georgia and surrounding counties at the meeting. During the Atlanta visit, the Belize delegation also visited two Belizean-owned businesses in the area.The first was Victory Insurance Group, an independent full-service insurance company created to provide financial services and life insurance options to meet the personal and business needs of individuals. The company is owned and managed by Ms. Stacy Emeri Watson. The delegation then visited with Mr. Al Smith, the owner of C-Town Bikes Shop, who shared with the delegation about the success of his store. The well-equipped store focuses on providing reasonably-priced cycling and running products as well as encouraging customers to practice a healthy and active lifestyle.

The Town Hall Meeting in Tampa saw the participation of the Belize Association of Central Florida and Belizean students studying at the University of South Florida.

The Government of Belize delegation was led by Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, Hon. Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health & Wellness, Hon. Oscar Requeña, Minister of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Local Government & Labour, His Excellency Stuart Leslie, Cabinet Secretary and Chief of Staff, His Excellency Lynn R. Young, Ambassador of Belize to the United States of America & Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States, Mrs. Nicole Solano, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, Dr. Julio Sabido, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Health & Wellness, Mrs. Sandhya Murphy, Ambassador for Diaspora Relations, Mrs. Stephanne Hamilton, Councillor responsible for Tourism, Diaspora Relations, Zoning & Planning, Building Unit, Foreign Affairs, and Sister City Relations and members of the Diaspora Relations Unit.

The MTDR and DRU continue to encourage all Belizeans living in the diaspora to stay connected to their homeland and remain involved in the development and rejuvenation of the country.

at the Tuani Garifuna Cultural Center and were also joined by the Mayor of Dangriga Robert Mariano and Senator Erica Jang. The think tank became an engaging discussion about the state of Education in the Garifuna Community and the absolute need to work together to promote and preserve the Garifuna language and Culture. Minister Fonseca via his Facebook page said he used

the opportunity to brief the elders on a number of ongoing national issues.

Minister Fonseca: “I truly value the wisdom and advice of this group of elders who have and continue to contribute to the growth and development of Belize.”

The group included Ombudsman Major Gilbert Swazo, Mr. Roy Cayetano, former Mayor Cassian Nunez,

Canon Jerris Valentine, Mr. Anthony Sabal, and Mr. Wellington Elijio. Minister Fonseca saw it key to visit with Baba Rodriguez…one of the last remaining traditional Garifuna Drum makers. The Minister noted that Mr. Rodriguez has taught his daughter the art of Drum Making and that she intends to carry on her father's legacy.

Progress and Success

Prime

Hon.

Hon. Julius Espat, MIDH

Hon. Marconi Leal, Belize Rural North

Hon.

At NSC Volleyball in Support of Sports and Primary Schools

Accepting Brand New Cesna Caravan for the National Defence and Border Security

Current Events

Loving

On behalf of the Deputy Regional Manager, Dr. Jorge Sajia and the extended staff of the Punta Gorda Community Hospital, appreciation is extended to Minister Mike Espat, Area Representative for Toledo East, Mr. Victor Espat, Chief Executive Officer from the Ministry of Infastructure, Development and Housing and also to our CEO Dr. Julio Sabido for his support.

Works continue in and around the compound and on the Infastructure of the Hospital. We thank the community for their patience and support.

Several health care workers from across the health regions are participating in a Training of Trainers workshop for frontline personnel such as healthcare workers who may interact and care for persons affected by Gender Based Violence. The workshop is being hosted by Paho/Who.

An official opening ceremony was held this morning which included remarks from the Ministry's health planner, Nurse Naudia Leonardo. She welcomed the training activity that will benefit and continue to build capacity for healthcare workers to respond appropriately when faced with these situations in the health care settings and communties.

The Minister, Hon. Kevin Bernard along with the CEO, Dr. Julio Sabido and other relevant staff today welcomed the Independent Evaluation Mission from the World Health Organization (WHO) technical advisory group on malaria elimination.

The team mission will be in Belize from February 28th to March 8th, 2023. They will conduct accessments countrywide and a final report with recommendations and findings will then be forwarded to WHO Director General for a final decision.

Belize anticipates to be certified Malaria free after four consecutive years without a reported case of Malaria.

A training exercise started today in Belmopan in partnership with Paho/WHO for staff in maintenance and healthcare workers who may also form part of Emergency Medical Teams (EMT)s. The training is to improve their ability to respond and be more self sufficient in the operation, maintenance and conservation of water supply kits, waste management kits and training for the operation of the X-Ray kits when responding to an emergency.

Dr. Francis Morey, Deputy Director of Hospital Services & Allied Health welcomed the participants and encouraged them to take advantage of the information and practice they will be engaged in over the next few days.

The training has two target audiences. The training of water supply and waste management kits is aimed at those involved in operational support and the radiological kits is

The Ministry of Health & Wellness, in collaboration with UNICEF Belize and NEMO organized a one-day session to raise awareness on the need to implement a nutrition response in emergency situations. The main objective of the sensitization session was to increase the knowledge and understanding of vulnerable groups for nutrition and share on the key elements needed for a nutrition response to prevent malnutrition of the most vulnerable groups.

Participants of the session included: Public health inspectors, Health educators, Nutritionists, Belize Red Cross, Human Development, and NEMO officers. The outcome of this session is to develop and implement a nutrition coordinating team response during emergencies and natural disasters.

Today, the Minister of Health & Wellness, Hon. Kevin Bernard met the new Ambassador to Belize from the Republic of China (Taiwan), H.E. Lily Li-Wen Hsu at an official event to start the National Assistant Radiographer Training program. The Minister welcomed her to Belize and expressed anticipation for continued mutual cooperation.

On an invitation by both the CEO of Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, Mrs. Chandra Cansino and Minister Bernard, the Ambassador was given a tour of specific areas within the hospital.

the end results of the upgrade landscape done at the Punta Gorda Community Hospital compound.

Photos taken today during the practical session of the Emergency Medical Training in partnership with Paho/Who.

VOICE OF THE COMMON MAN MCC COMPACT WITH BELIZE

By Hilly Bennett

A CDF signing ceremony between the Millennium Corporation Challenge (MCC) and the Government of Belize (GoB) was held at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza, Wednesday 1st March 2023. A second compact development agreement was signed.

In December 2021, MCC's Board of Directors selected Belize as eligible to develop a compact. A delegation from the US government's MCC, led by the Chief Executive Officer, Alice Albright was in country to introduce the agency's development grant program. The MCC of compact.

Albright was accompanied by MCC's Deputy Vice President for Europe, Asia. Pacific, and Latin America, Johnathan Brooks and met with Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño as well as other senior officials from GOB, business leaders, civil society and partners in the donor community. The participants engaged in discussions on MCC's analytical and collaborative approach in fighting poverty through economic growth. Albright had said that "the MCC Board selection of Belize for compact program development recognizes the Belizean government's commitment to democracy, sound economic policies, and investing in people". It was pronounced that the visit was the beginning of a new phase of the partnership between Belize and the United States through the MCC. Albright said that the partnership had the potential to drive growth and prosperity for the Belizean people, while ensuring that poor, women and the historically marginalized groups receive the benefits they truly deserved.

The Millennium Corporation Challenge is an independent US government development agency assigned to poverty reduction through economic growth. The MCC was created in 2004 on a new philosophy toward foreign aid. In 2002, George W. Bush called for a new compact for development with accountability for both rich and poor countries. After

turning the country around in 2022, the PUP Government governance performance was assessed by the MCC in three categories; Ruling Justly, Investing in People, and Encouraging Economic Growth. Belize scored favorably allowing them to become one of the two countries to participate in the MCC compact agreement. Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño was elated and said that the score was welcome news for Belize. Interestingly, the UDP Administration in 2013 failed miserably in controlling corruption, adhering to democratic rights and did not perform well in 50 subcategories.

In the initial agreement, a provision was made for up to $750,000 in funding to facilitate GOB's initial administrative expenses. This allowed for the government to have access to the technical expertise needed to conduct a "Constraints to Economic Growth Analysis" which detailed the country's economic situation. The signing of the second compact agreement was for US $10 million dollars with further financial agreements over a five-year period. The US $10 million is earmarked to various areas of education and energy. As proffered by the Charge' d' affaires, Leyla Moses-Ones, a.i. at the US Embassy in Belize that "the United States is committed to working with our partners in the Belizean government to bring greater prosperity and support good governance for the benefit of all the citizens of this great nation, we look forward to getting started on the development process."

During the signing on March 1st 2023 in his remarks PM Briceño said that as we continue with the work ahead, we will continue to develop projects, and design and implement these projects based on economic priorities which are set out in PlanBelize. He continued "in the end, we are doing everything possible to ensure that everyone can contribute and, as such, share in the ownership of our national development." With PlanBelize as the North Star the Government continues to engage in the development of people and country.

BELIZE TAX SERVICE DEPARTMENT’S NOTICE HOW TO REGISTER ON IRIS?

This guide will provide a step-by-step on how to register your account:

Go to the Official Belize Tax Service Online Website Belize Tax Services (bts.gov.bz)

On the home page click the “Register for an account” button.

This link will take you to the online registration form.

Start Filling the Following Details:

i. Your first & last name.

ii. Your Date of Birth

Enter your Name and Date of Birth as given on your Social Security Card/Birth Certificate

iii. Your Mobile Number

This will be used for request verification and important communications from Belize Tax Service.

iv. Your Email Address

This email address will be used to login to the portal.

v. Enter a Password as per the specification given.

• At least 1 upper case character

• At least 1 lower case character

vi. Re-Confirm your Password.

This should be same as the Password field above.

Enter the appropriate Security answers to the three Questions.

• At least 1 digit

• At least 1 special character (! @#$%*)

• Minimum of 8 character

(Note: these questions will be used in the event you need to recover your password and validate your identity)

When finished, check the read and agree box for the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Now, you can click the “Submit my Registration” button.

Your user account registration has been sent.

A confirmation email will be sent to the email address you entered

Open the email and click the CONFIRM EMAIL ADDRESS button, you are now registered!

For the final step, you will need to contact Belize Tax Service to link your tax account to your online profile.

5 FEB 2023

This process will take approximately 24 hours to link.

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE SAN PEDRO, AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE

BY ORDER of the Government of Belize, Licensed Auctioneer Mr. Fitzgerald

A. Joseph will auction the following unserviceable vehicles, cycles, heavy equipment on site at the San Pedro Town Council Compound, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize on Friday the 17th day of March, 2023, commencing at 9:00 a.m. No duties payable.

TERMS:

Joys, Sorrows, and Challenges with Motorcycles

cycle accidents including fatalities are on the rise in the country for several reasons.

Some motorcyclists abuse improved highways to drive way above the prescribed speed limit. A few bikers even boast of aiming to push their machines to the fastest speed, until it ‘bucks’. That’s certainly is very irresponsible behavior that endangers the lives of the biker and other road users.

By Hon. Gilroy Usher, Port Loyola

“The driver on the street is not safe when he reads the sign, but when he obeys them.”

-Aiden Tozer

Almost every weekend a group of motorcyclists engage in wheelie and other stunts on the Chetumal Road between the bridge and the road to the P.G.I.A. And over the last week, at least three persons lost their lives as they were traveling on motorcycles. The last two fatalities were co-workers Aurelio Ayala, 42, and Joana Samoza, 21, from the Cayo District.

Due to low cost in comparison to a four-wheel vehicle, there is an abundance of motorcycles in urban and rural areas throughout the country. Motorcycles are easy to operate. Their maintenance is manageable even by persons earning a minimum wage. Motorcycles consume little fuel and their parts and repair cost are manageable by most persons even if their income is small.

It is much cheaper for to travel on a motorcycle instead of public transportation. On busy streets motorcycles enable quicker movement between vehicle. These two wheeled machines enable job for scores of delivery employees of restaurants, hardware stores, hotels, and other businesses. Families benefit.

Motorcycles give many the joy and satisfaction of being at the forefront of the annual Cross Country Race at top speed from Belize City to San Ignacio and back to the finish line in old capital. Outside of the Cross Country race motorcycles enable persons to trill spectators including ladies and enjoy a super high of invincibility as they race through villages and main streets in urban areas at unbelievable speed and become known as local Daredevils.

Not everything is fun with motorcycles, they are also responsible for scores of untimely death, broken homes, and futures crushed forever. My late uncle Cleveland Lord was a lover of motorcycles. Four plus decades ago, every summer, he enjoyed driving his large motorcycle like those old big police bikes over 70 miles from Orange Walk Town to our home in the village of Bermudian Landing in the Belize District. In those times there were far less vehicles on the highways and in the villages and towns. If Cleveland was around now, the same trip would be like Russian roulette, a big gamble with death. Over the past years, traffic on the main streets and roads has increased by leap and bounds. That reality has made the use of motorcycles to travel riskier especially on the highways. A few decades ago the eldest child and very promising son of the Hemsley family on Faber’s Rd. lost his life instantly, when he lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into the wall of the MCC ground opposite Princess Casino. Motor-

A number of motorcyclists have been involved in fatal or life changing accidents, because they travel without using safety helmets or they travelled at night without the necessary lights and reflector clothing to warn approaching vehicles of their presence on the road. Other motorcyclists have been involved in accidents because of overtaking on curves, overtaking a line of three to four vehicles, or driving too much towards the center of the road. This doesn’t leave sufficient space for fast moving vehicles to past them at a safe distance.

Despite awareness of the danger on

the highways and other roads for motorcyclists at night, some persons simply develop the terrible habit of being on their bikes when it’s already dark night. By repeatedly not leaving for home or other destinations in time, they endanger their and other’s lives.

Most motorcyclists do their best to observe the traffic laws for their own safety and the safety of all other travellers. Nevertheless, a number of motorcyclists are involved in traffic accidents, which range from minor to fatal as a result of other reckless drivers on the road. It is therefore very important that motorcyclists travel with extreme caution even when the law is on their side including when they have the right of way.

About two years ago, a motorcyclist, who was traveling at a high speed on the George Price Highway, lost his life suddenly around mile 41. He collided with a pickup truck that suddenly tried to cross the highway to a gas station that was on the opposite side of the road. The deadly

experience drives home the point that like all other motorists, motorcyclists need to travel with extreme caution even when the law is on their side, even when they have the right of way as the unfortunate biker had 500%.

The Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Infrastructure, and the various town boards are doing everything possible to help ensure the safety of all road users including our motorcyclists.

To enjoy a long and happy life, motorcyclists must recognize that with better roads, better and faster motorcycles, far more vehicular traffic on the road, and the unfortunate increase in the number of less cautious drivers owning a motorbike whether large or small in 2023 opens one to joyous moments as well as moments of sorrows, and challenges. The best way to avoid the last two experiences is by always going the extra mile to practice good road safety measures at all times.

PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES

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 properties. Sales currently running until 30th April 2023. Public Auction Sales will expire fortnightly within this period on the dates and times listed on the website until these properties are sold.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Ladyville/Lord’s Bank 1 64

The freehold property of Mr. Francis Smith & Maria Smith/ Messrs.

The

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Corozal North 1 2268

The freehold property of Mr. Aaron Navarro.

ALL THAT lot, piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 61 containing 1223.609 square yards situate in St. Margaret’s Village, Cayo District, Belize and bounded and described as shown on the plan attached to Minister’s Fiat (Grant) No. 303 of 2004 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being Thereon, the freehold property of Mr. Miguel Angel Arevalo.

BLOCK PARCEL St. Martins de Pores 45 600

The freehold property of Mr. Fitzroy Gillett.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Pedro 7 1434

The freehold property of Ms. Carroll Leonardo.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Louisville 1 165/1

The leasehold property of Ms. Catalina Cowo Rivero and Mr. David

Lot No. 92 St. Margaret Village, Hummingbird Highway, Cayo District:

13. Parcel No. 1164 Maya Beach Area, Placencia, Stann Creek District:

9. Parcel Nos. 6969 Los Lagos, Belize District:

Parcel No. 2911 Cedar Street, Santiago Juan Layout, San Ignacio, Cayo District:

17. Parcel No. 1609/1 Sunflower Street, Punta Gorda, Toledo, Punta Gorda, Toledo District:

18. Parcel No. 3246 Lord’s Bank Village, Belize District:

& Mr. Mark Tillett

20. No. 17 Zietown Street, Loyola, Belize City:

21. Lot No. 61 St. Margaret’s Village, Cayo District, Belize:

Carr & Mrs. Angir Carr

Rivero Angie Carr

19. Parcels No. 2268 near Paraiso Village, Corozal District:

23. Parcel No. 1434 West of Ambergris Lakes Villas, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye:

24. Leasehold Parcel No. 165 Phillip Goldson Highway, Louisville, Corozal District:

22. Parcel No. 600 Nutmeg Street, St. Martin de Porres, Belize City:

BACAB Eco - Park

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 251 comprising of 661.665 square metres situate in Independence Village, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Ms. Anthea Mathias and Mr. Samuel Mathias.

Lot No. 92 St. Margaret Village, Hummingbird Highway, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. Reuben Parham and Ms. Maria Parham.

Peace Corps Belize signs MOU with Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Transport

BELMOPAN, BELIZE – Today, February 21st, 2023, Peace Corps/Belize and the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Transport signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a national priority area of youth development in Belize. Peace Corps Volunteers will work alongside Belizean counterparts to implement the project activities. The goal of the project is to help Belizean youth lead healthy and empowered lives to realize their full potential into adulthood. The project activities will focus on physical education and sports development through the National Primary School Sports Program of the National Sports Council.

Peace Corps Belize’s Country Director Tracey Hébert-Seck highlighted, “At the heart of Peace Corps is partnership. Community service and working side by side with Belizeans is why Peace Corps is invited into the country, and it is where we see the most impact. The signing of this MOU with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Transport is the beginning of what we hope will be a fruitful alliance that improves the lives of Belizean youth.”

The MOU was signed by the Minister of Youth, Sports, and Transport Honorable Rodwell Ferguson, Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn, and Peace Corps Belize Director Tracey Hébert- Seck. Also present at the MOU signing ceremony were senior officials from the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Transport, representatives from Peace Corps’ Washington, DC headquarters, and the staff of Peace Corps Belize. Peace Corps is honored to celebrate this momentous occasion and looks forward to this partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Transport as we continue working towards the positive development of Belizean youth.

About the Peace Corps: The Peace Corps is an international service network of volunteers, community members, host country partners and staff who are driven by the agency’s mission of world peace and friendship. At the invitation of governments around the world, Peace Corps volunteers work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects in the sectors of education, health, environment, agriculture, community economic development and youth development. Through service, members of the Peace Corps network develop transferable skills and hone intercultural competencies that position them to be the next generation of global leaders. Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, more than 240,000 Americans have served in 142 countries worldwide.

Continued from page 19

BPO Training in Dangriga and Corozal

BPO Capacity Building for Over 130 Participants!

This here is proof-positive that the IMF was right in its concluding statement on BPOs being a job, and thus economic, force to reckon with in Belize. PlanBelize is all about getting as much Belizeans working and improving their lives. Hon. Louis Zabaneh is making sure that they are prepared for the workplace.

In Corozal, Mayor Rigo Vellos, addressed the participants, congratulating them for taking the step to become better prepared for the labour force.

Mayor Vellos explained that the training will give each participant a better understanding of what to expect when they attend job interviews to work at a call center, and also better prepared for when they are called for employment.

The training is a partnership between the Council and BELTRAIDE through their BTEC office. BTEC Manager, Sarita Bejerano, shared with participants that the training will also prepare them for any future office job, as it will focus on basic professional skills such as time management, office etiquette, computer basics, customer service and others.

Libraries of Belize Rural North Receive Electronic Devices

Desktop Computers, Tablets & Printers!

THE BELIZE TIMES 2

Lots Nos. 43 and 44 Hope Creek Village, Stann Creek District TOGETHER with all building erections and developments standing and being thereon. The freehold property of Mr. Wilburn Cuthkelvin

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 15A comprising 696.567 square meters of land situate in Pomona Village, Stann Creek District. The freehold property of Mr. Nohe Lima.

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 152 comprising 458.531 Square Meters of land situate in San Juan Village, Stann Creek District. The freehold property of Mrs. Juana A. Morey.

Hon. Marconi Leal was happy to carry out the handover of these devices to the librarians of the four largest communities in BRN along with the chairpersons of each of these villages. Burrell Boom, Crooked Tree, Maskall and Sandhill libraries received this equipment that will support the residents, especially students, to get access to these devices.

PlanBelize and Community Development Funds at work.

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE”

26. Parcel No. 715 (west of airstrip) San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

27. Parcels Nos. 43 & 44 Hope Creek Village, Stann Creek District:

Parcels No. 15A Pomona Village, Stann Creek District: 29. Lot No. 152 San Juan Village, Stann Creek District: 30. Parcel No. 444 San Antonio Village, Orange Walk District:

33. Parcel No. 2889 within first subdivision south Placencia Airstrip, Placencia,

property of Mr. Hector Bobadilla.

and Ms. Ycela Yvette Puc.

National Climate Change Office Funds Model Farm Renovations for ANRI

The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, through the National Climate Change Office, signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Agriculture and Natural Resources Institute (ANRI) in Stann Creek for the renovation and expansion of ANRI’s model farm. The signing took place on Thursday,

February 23, 2023, at 4:00 PM at the Ministry of Sustainable Development Auditorium in Belmopan.

The institution’s model farm, which consists of a greenhouse structure, piggery, poultry, and hydroponics unit, needs modification. The works will include establishing an integrated water system, including a storage water tank complete with an

Changing Communities, Impacting Lives, Embracing Success!

DFC at 60!

THE JOB

independent system for both the swine and poultry unit. The MOA also outlines revamping the existing greenhouse to allow for a controlled environment for vegetable crops and to improve productivity and a fertigation tank for crop production complete with a solar-powered water pumping system.

The re-design of the model farm is vital to creating a ca-

pacity-building program that will enhance climate resilience by using new techniques and adapting new technology. ANRI students will be able to address issues confidently and professionally while safeguarding Belize’s economy and food security.

The total cost of the renovations is BZ$60,000. The MOA complements ANRI’s “Existing Farm Model to build climate resilience for the Belizean communities in the south and across Belize” project.

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is a key member of the Corporation’s Executive Management Team in charge of developing and executing the overall IT strategy in support of business objectives. The CIO is responsible for the Information Technology infrastructure of the Corporation, which includes continuous development and maintenance of digital financial services, maintaining efficient communication links and information security. Identify, advises, execute, and maintain IT solutions to ensure business growth, efficiency of operations and enhanced customer experience.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

1. A Master’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering or related field.

2. 8 -10 years of progressive management experience in a technology role.

3. Proven leadership skills with special concentration on strategic planning, change management and communication.

4. Experience in leading digital transformation or business re-engineering would be an asset.

REQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Excellent knowledge of IT systems, infrastructure and emerging technology.

• Understanding of DFC’s unique role in the financial services sector and priorities of a development bank.

• Policy development and implementation.

• Project management and process documentation skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Research and analytical skills.

• Excellent presentation and communication skills

• Ability to effectively lead team in the achievement of objectives.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Applications.

• Integrity and trustworthiness with confidential data.

1. Contribute to DFC’s people-centric culture by always putting the people it employs and the people it serves at the center of everything.

2. Establishes, maintains and oversees at the highest level the technology architecture and technology choices that power the Corporation, ensuring optimal performance.

3. Develop the overall IT strategy by defining strategic direction with active involvement of the Executive Management Team and other Department Managers.

4. Communicate technology strategy to stakeholders.

5. Develops/manages the annual budget for all IT activities.

6. Perform business continuity and disaster management planning in order to estimate business requirements.

7. Ensure efficient communication links within and outside the Corporation.

8. Build quality assurance and data protection processes.

9. Monitor KPIs to assess technological performance.

STATION

Headquarters Office, City of Belmopan

ACT NOW

1. Letter of Application

2. Curriculum Vitae

3. Copy of most recent qualification

4. Three (3) Letters of Recommendation (no older than six months) – two must be professional references of which one must be from a previous employer.

5. Copy of Social Security Card

The successful candidate will be required to provide a Police Report as part of the Background Check.

SUBMISSION

Submit application with reference Application for Vacancy: CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER to:

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Development Finance Corporation

P. O. Box 40 | Belmopan | Belize, C.A.

IMPORTANT:

Submit application in One PDF File with references, electronically, by email to: careers@dfcbelize.org

DEADLINE: March 8, 2023

SHARING

Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/DFCBelize

Food Security and Diversity

More Soursop Training

BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE

Country: Belize Project: CARICOM Development Fund Grant No: BZE/G00011

Project ID: CDF/00011/WS2 Contract Number: W/CDF-03/2022 National Competitive Bidding (NCB) Deadline: March 17th 2023.

1. The Government of Belize has received funding through the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) towards implementation of a project that focuses on improving water supply systems in four (4) communities and intends to apply part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the contract for Installation of a Chlorinator and the Upgrading of the System’s Electrical Components for the Mahogany Heights Water Supply System, Mahogany Heights Village, Belize District, Belize.

2. The Social Investment Fund, a Statutory Corporation, established under the Social Investment Fund Act No. 3 of 1996 and located at Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District, hereby invites tenders from suitably qualified contractors for the construction of the following:

The contract proposes to:

The contract proposes the installation of a chlorinator and the upgrading of the system’s electrical components in Mahogany Heights, Belize District, Belize.

3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Mahogany Heights, Belize District, Belize.

4. Belize Social Investment Fund now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the construction works in the aforementioned areas.

Dr. Abel Reboucas, Brazilian expert on fruit trees with emphasis on Sour Sop is in Belize training farmers, technicians, and fruit processors. The training in the field had a large number of participants. On Wednesday, March 1, the training was done in Orange Walk Town. More than 120 farmers were in attendance at the soursop cultivation training workshop held in Trinidad Village, Orange Walk District. The sessions comprised of a theory session and a practical session. The workshops are being held all around the country from Monday. Workshops have been held in Cayo at Central Farm and CPBL at Stann Creek so far. A fourth workshop was held in San Pedro Columbia, Toledo on Thursday March 2.

5. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the CARICOM Development Fund’s Guidelines for Procurement (May 2010), and are open to all countries of the world are eligible to tender for this contract.

Mai Addresses Livestock Producers AGM

Minister

FB Page: It was an honor to be able to address the livestock producers yesterday, Sunday 25 February 2023 on their 44th Annual General Meeting. The livestock industry is now a main contributor to Belize’s GDP. Over the last two years, cattle exports alone have contributed to more than $60M in foreign exchange earnings and the industry is growing rapidly.

There are similar numbers of cattle farmers as sugar cane farmers. The 5200 cattle farmers and their hard work contributed to the major growth in agriculture over the past two years.

Important to note is that when compared to other agro industries, the great majority of foreign exchange earned by cattle exports remains in the country due to limited dependence on foreign imported inputs, fuel being one of them.

This leads to the cattle industry having far- reaching social and economic impact in the country, hence the economic contribution is clearly evident in rural communities and in the economy.

What is noteworthy to announce is that BLPA is now the beneficiary of GEF funding. The policy is to promote smart agriculture, environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture practices. Through GEF funding, BLPA was able to purchase 4 Brangus Bulls for rental to farmers.

This will lead to increase efficiency by improving genetics while taking into consideration the protection and conservation of our Natural Resources!!

On behalf of the Prime Minister, Hon John Briceño and the government of Belize we extend Congratulations to all livestock farmers and may God protect and bless you and your families!!

6. Qualification requirements include (a) The bidder shall furnish unaudited or audited financial statements (balance sheets with corresponding notes, income statement, and statements of cash flow) of the firm for years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 to demonstrate the current soundness of the bidder’s financial position (b) Bidders should have general experience under contracts in the role of contractor, JV member, subcontractor, or management contractor for the years 2019, 2021 and 2022 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting 1st January, 2019 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between 1st January 2011 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to three (3) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$11,955.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$35,865.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$9,000.00 of which not more than BZ$4,500.00 can be credit for materials (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$215,190.00 which shall be calculated as total certified payments received for contracts completed within the best two (2) years of the years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 (e) other provided in the respective Bid Documents.

7. A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidders at the address below, starting January 30th, 2022, on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time restriction for viewing). A complete set of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested bidder upon payment of a non-refundable fee of BZ$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Installation of a Chlorinator and the Upgrading of the System’s Electrical Components for the Mahogany Heights Water Supply System, Mahogany Heights Village, Belize District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office.

8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., March 17th 2023 at the address below. Bids will be opened at 10:15 a.m., March 17th 2023 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 360.00 or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency or Bank Guarantee. The bid validity period is 90 days.

9. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 13th, 2023. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU Bidders can participate in the meeting to address any queries about the bidding document or the scope of works. Persons who purchase packages are urged to attend.

10. The address referred to above is:

Contact: Ms. Angeles Itzab Senior Procurement Officer

Social Investment Fund

3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive

Belmopan Cayo District

Tel: 822-0239/822-0508

E-mail: angeles.itzab@sifbelize.org

cc: carlos.tun@sifbelize.org

kyla.cho@sifbelize.org

Belizean Eugene ‘Pele’ Martinez Defends in Vancouver

BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE

BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE

Country: Belize Project: CARICOM Development Fund Grant No: BZE/GOOOII Project ID: CDF/OOOI 1/WS3 Contract Number: W/CDF-04/2022 National Competitive Bidding (NCB)

Deadline: March 17th 2023

l . The Government of Belize has received funding through the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) towards implementation of a project that focuses on improving water supply systems in four (4) communities and intends to apply part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the contract for Installation of a Chlorinator and the Upgrading of the System’s Electrical Components for the Georgville Water Supply System, Georgeville Village, Cayo District, Belize.

2. The Social Investment Fund, a Statutory Corporation, established under the Social Investment Fund Act No. 3 of 1996 and located at Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District, hereby invites tenders from suitably qualified contractors for the construction of the following:

tractors for the construction of the following:

Article By Tanmay Ahluwalia

The contract proposes to:

Langley-based Vancouver FC on Thursday, Feb. 23 announced the addition of midfielder Nima Moazeni Zadeh, defender Eugene “Pele” Martinez and goalkeeper Jeremy Zielinski to its squad, after the trio earned 2023 contracts by impressing at the club’s open trials earlier this year.

The contract proposes the installation of a chlorinator and the upgrading of the system’s electrical components in Mahogany Heights, Belize District, Belize.

shot blocker with cat-like reflexes, dominates the penalty area with his personality and range, and he is comfortable with his feet. We are excited to help develop Jeremy to a world class goalkeeper.”

3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Mahogany Heights, Belize District, Belize.

4. Belize Social Investment Fund now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the construction works in the aforementioned areas.

Joining Vancouver marks, a first professional opportunity for all three players.

“The combine proves that there’s a wealth of talent looking for places to play, and as we move forward in building our club local talent will be the cornerstone of the squad,” said Niall Thompson, assistant coach, Vancouver FC.

A native of California, the left-footed goalkeeper owned a 83.5 per cent save percentage over four seasons with the Sharks, logging a total of 3,917 minutes.

5. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the CARICOM Development Fund’s Guidelines for Procurement (May 2010), and are open to all countries of the world are eligible to tender for this contract.

6. Qualification requirements include

“By hosting the combine, Canadian players had the chance to experience a higher level of competition and it helped us as a club in continuing to build a scouting system with our local club partners to track players,” he added.

Moazeni Zadeh, 25, joined the Langley-based team as an alum of Capilano University in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). An attacking central midfielder, Zadeh was named the CCAA’s PACWEST Player of the Year in 2021 – his first season in the conference – as well as a PACWEST Conference All-Star.

(a) The bidder shall furnish unaudited or audited financial statements (balance sheets with corresponding notes, income statement, and statements of cash flow) of the firm for years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 to demonstrate the current soundness of the bidder’s financial position (b) Bidders should have general experience under contracts in the role of contractor, JV member, subcontractor, or management contractor for the years 2019, 2021 and 2022 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting 1st January, 2019 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between 1st January 2011 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to three (3) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$11,955.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$35,865.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$9,000.00 of which not more than BZ$4,500.00 can be credit for materials (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$215,190.00 which shall be calculated as total certified payments received for contracts completed within the best two (2) years of the years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 (e) other provided in the respective Bid Documents.

He was also honoured as a CCAA All-Canadian. A native of Tehran, Iran, Zadeh scored five times for Capilano in 2021, while regularly pulling defenders his way to free up his squad’s other attacking players nearby.

The five-foot-seven, Iranian Canadian midfielder is already a member of the mainland soccer scene, as a coach with Metro Vancouver soccer academy and notfor-profit Field Art F.C. He also represented FC Tigers Vancouver in 2022.

“I am thrilled to continue my playing career on the west coast, a place I know to be full of true soccer fans,” said Zadeh. “I am excited to officially get started and show my coaches, teammates and opponents what I can do.”

“I am grateful to Vancouver for giving me my first professional opportunity through the combine,” said Zielinski. “The club’s faith in me will only make me work harder to be the best I can be for our team.”

Martinez, 25, is a right footed centre-back from Dangriga, Belize and a former member of the Cal Poly Pomona Broncos NCAA Division II men’s soccer team, where he spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons on scholarship after a move from Cerritos College in Norwalk, California.

Martinez, who stands at six feet tall, made 36 appearances for the Broncos through two seasons, scoring three goals and logging 2209 minutes.

He represented the Belize men’s national team four times in Concacaf Nations League B play in 2022, his first appearances for his country.

“It is a dream come true to join Vancouver and continue my playing career as a professional,” said Martinez. “I believe in my ability and look forward to proving myself within my new team and within the Canadian Premier League.”

7. A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidders at the address below, starting January 30th, 2022, on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time restriction for viewing). A complete set of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested bidder upon payment of a non-refundable fee of BZ$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Installation of a Chlorinator and the Upgrading of the System’s Electrical Components for the Mahogany Heights Water Supply System, Mahogany Heights Village, Belize District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office.

Martinez is also the owner and founder of Pele Soccer Foundation in Belize, which provides youth with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of soccer, collects new clothes and equipment to ensure they can play and instills the importance of education.

“Pele impressed me immediately with his athleticism and personality,” said Ghotbi. “A great character in the locker room, Pele makes everyone better around him. He is a born leader who will soon be a fan favorite in the CPL.”

8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., March 17th 2023 at the address below. Bids will be opened at 10:15 a.m., March 17th 2023 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 360.00 or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency or Bank Guarantee. The bid validity period is 90 days.

In addition to his abilities on the pitch, Zadeh is a Certified Personal Trainer and holds a Bachelor of Physical Education from Tehran University.

9. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 13th, 2023. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU Bidders can participate in the meeting to address any queries about the bidding document or the scope of works. Persons who purchase packages are urged to attend.

The contract proposes to:

The contract proposes the installation ofa chlorinator and the upgrading ofthe system ‘s electrical components in Georgeville Village, Cayo District, Belize.

3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Georgeville Village, Cayo District, Belize.

4. Belize Social Investment Fund now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the construction works in the aforementioned areas.

5. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the CARICOM Development Fund’s Guidelines for Procurement (May 2010), and are open to all countries of the world are eligible to tender for this contract.

6. Qualification requirements include (a) The bidder shall furnish unaudited or audited financial statements (balance sheets with corresponding notes, income statement, and statements of cash flow) of the firm for years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 to demonstrate the current soundness of the bidder’s financial position (b) Bidders should have general experience under contracts in the role of contractor, JV member, subcontractor, or management contractor for the years 2019, 2021 and 2022 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting I st January, 2019 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between I January 2011 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to three (3) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$11,420.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$34,260.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$8,600.00 of which not more than BZ$4,300.00 can be credit for materials (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$205,560.00 which shall be calculated as total certified payments received for contracts completed within the best two (2) years of the years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 (e) other provided in the respective Bid Documents.

7. A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidders at the address below, starting January 30th 2023, on week days between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time restriction for viewing). A complete set of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested bidder upon payment of a non-refundable fee of BZ$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Installation of a Chlorinator and the Upgrading of the System’s Electrical Components for the Georgeville Water Supply System, Georgeville Village, Cayo District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office.

8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., March 17th 2023 at the address below. Bids will be opened at 10:30 a.m., March 17th 2023 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 350.00 or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency or Bank Guarantee. The bid validity period is 90 days.

10. The address referred to above is:

“Zadeh is a classic midfielder with a high football IQ, tireless work rate and box to box range,” said Afshin Ghotbi, head coach, Vancouver FC. “He will soon be recognized by many as one of the best midfielders in Canada due to his qualities with and without the ball.”

Zadeh, Zielinski and Martinez joined strikers Mamadou Kane, Nathanial St. Louis and Shaan Hundal, midfielders Elliot Simmons and Gabriel Bitar, defenders Rocco Romeo, Marcus Simmons and Kahlil John-Wentworth and Tyler Crawford and Irving on Vancouver’s roster.

9. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 13th, 2023. The link is https://bit.ly/3 IACuQU. Bidders can participate in the meeting to address any queries about the bidding document or the scope of works. Persons who purchase packages are urged to attend.

10. The address referred to above is:

Contact: Ms. Angeles Itzab

Senior Procurement Officer

Social Investment Fund

3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive

Belmopan Cayo District

Tel: 822-0239/822-0508

Zielinski, 24, joined Callum Irving as the second goalkeeper to sign with Vancouver. The six-foot-two American Canadian netminder and most recently played for Hawai’i Pacific University, an NCAA Division II school, where he owned the role of starting goalkeeper from his freshman season.

E-mail: angeles.itzab@sifbelize.org

cc: carlos.tun@sifbelize.org

Fans eager to secure their tickets for Vancouver’s inaugural season can do so by visiting showpass.com/vancouver-football-club-season-ticket/.

Season tickets for 2023 are now on general release.

Contact: Ms. Angeles Itzab

Senior Procurement Officer Social Investment Fund

3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive

Belmopan Cayo District

Tel: 822-0239/822-0508

E-mail: angeles.itzab@sifbelize.org

kyla.cho@sifbelize.org

“Jeremy possesses all the qualities to become one of the top goalkeepers in Canada,” said Ghotbi. “He is a fantastic

Vancouver FC was founded in 2022 and will kick off its first Canadian Premier League season in 2023. Based in Langley, VFC is committed to being a professional team that commits more to its community than it takes out, in the pursuit of growing soccer in Canada. <<https://www.aldergrovestar.com/sports/>>

cc: carlos.tun@sifbelize.org kyla.cho@sifbelize.org

Belize and BTB Welcome

Another Influencer; Pasillas

Popular Mexican Influencer Beto Pasillas traveled with his fiancé Carolina Davilla over the last few days, exploring our jewel's pristine beaches and vibrant cultures! They enjoyed the views of the Barrier Reef on a parasailing tour and relaxed on a radiant sunset cruise. They then traveled to Hopkins, did a bike ride tour of the village, danced punta, and went island-hopping as they fished and snorkeled. Beto and Carolina instantly fell in love with our beautiful country!

Fruit Tree Propagation Training

the Court ordered that the Application Notice together wit h the supporting affidavits be served on you, the Respondents, by two consecutive publications o f this notice. Copies of the Application Notice may be obtained from the General Registry situate at No. 1 Treasury Lane, Belize City Belize, telephone number (501) 227 7377 or from the Applicants ’ Attorneys-at-Law whose name and address appears below.

3. If you, or anyone wish(es) to object to the application you must file a notice of objection giving the reason for objection to the High Court within 6 weeks of the date of the second publication inclusive of the date of such publication, or, attend court on the date of the Case Management Conference.

4. Case Management Conference is set for the 30th day of March, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. virtually before Madam Justice Farnese via Microsoft Teams The link for the hearing may b e obtained from the General Registry a day before the hearing.

Dated the 20th day of February, 202 3

WA Lindo LLP

Attorneys-at-Law for the Applicants

Per: William A. Lindo

No. 1583 Life Avenue – U/F

University Heights Area, Belize City

Telephone: (501) 223 4537

Email: info@walindo.law; william@walindo.law

The Belize District Agriculture Department today hosted a fruit tree propagation training at the farm of Mr. Rondolph Griffith in the Santana community located on the old Northern Highway. Twenty-five fruit producers from the surrounding communities were in attendance.

The objective of the training was to build capacity of growers in asexual propagation practices (budding and grafting).

During the hands-on training, the growers familiarized themselves with a range of propagation techniques of fruit trees, such as the use of air-layering in lychee and guava; and grafting techniques in soursop, mango, avocado, and sapodilla. They were also introduced to aspects of fruit tree management (pruning, fertilization, irrigation and pest management).

Advantages of the techniques to fruit production include resistance to certain insects and diseases, and performance in various soil drainage types.

Most dwarf rootstocks are also precocious, meaning that they bear fruit early in the tree’s life.

The objective of the department is to promote crop diversification and to increase year-round availability of fruits promoting food security. Priority fruits of value chain interest to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise include soursop, pineapple, pitahaya (dragon fruit) and coconuts for the export market.

The Tropical Fruit Program of the department is designed to assist farmers/ fruit growers with all aspects of production. Other information and workshops will be offered periodically during the year and will target a variety of topics for specific fruit in management and best practices.

The training was facilitated by Mr. John Sanchez of the Stann Creek Department of Agriculture and coordinated by Extension Officer’s Mr. Marvin Blades and Mr. Noel Ramos.

Closure of the Lobster Season

The Fisheries Department takes this opportunity to inform fishers and the public that the Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) season will close on February 28, 2023 in accordance with Statutory Instrument No. 128 of 2021. The closed season for the Spiny Lobster fishery is from March 1st to June 30th in any year. Belize’s closed season is also in accordance with the harmonized regional lobster regulation (OSP-02-09) implemented by the Organization for Central American Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector (OSPESCA).

Any person found in possession of lobster during the said closed season will be prosecuted in accordance with the Fisheries Resources Act Chapter 210 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2020.

The Fisheries Department also reminds fishers that lobster traps should be removed from fishing grounds during the closed season. The Department will be actively enforcing the removal of traps from the waters during this period.

The public is advised to report any illegal fisheries activity by calling telephone number: 224-4552 or by email to: fisheries_department@fisheries.gov. bz.

Belize Energy Unit Receives New IT Equipment from the European Union

ALL TAXPAYERS REQUIRED TO FILE TAX RETURNS AND PAY TAXES ONLINE

Pursuant to Section 22 (2)(c) of The Tax Administration and Procedure Act, Chapter 51 Revised Edition 2020 (TAPA), which grants the Director General of the Belize Tax Service Department (BTSD) the authority to specify the manner in which returns should be filed, including electronically and with electronic signature, the Director General hereby notifies ALL taxpayers that effective April 1, 2023 they will be required to file tax returns and pay all taxes administered by the BTSD online.

In September 2021, the BTSD implemented the Integrated Revenue Information System (IRIS Belize) online portal. Only Large Taxpayers were required to utilize the portal, while all other taxpayers were encouraged to sign up and commence using IRIS Belize voluntarily. However, as part of a phased approach to fully implementing IRIS Belize, as of April 1, 2023, it is mandatory that every taxpayer is registered for an IRIS Belize account.

On February 27, 2023, the European Union (EU) handed over IT equipment to the Energy Unit in the Ministry for Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics & E-governance (MPUELE) in Belize to support its modernization process.

Mr. Aniceto Rodriguez, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Jamaica, which also covers Belize, presented the equipment to Mr. Jose Urbina, Chief Executive Officer of MPUELE. Valued at approximately 200,000 BZD, the donation consists of 45 IT devices, including energy meters, air and water quality meters, GPS, solar installation efficiency recorders, laptops, and cameras, among others. The gift forms part of the Sustainable Energy Roadmap Programme funded by the 11th European Development Fund.

In handing over the items, Mr. Rodriguez noted that the Ministry's ongoing modernization is

evident in its new office in Belmopan and the capacity building now underway for its expanding staff. The collaborative effort between the Government of Belize and the European Union aims to support the population's access to electricity and the country's transition to renewable energy sources.

The Ministry is collaborating closely with Technical Assistance funded by the EU to enhance the capacity for energy efficiency, renewable technologies, and policy planning. The new cutting-edge equipment will allow the Energy Unit to improve its performance and broaden its reach.

For more information, contact the Energy Unit under the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics and E-Governance at 8287868 or energy@energy.gov.bz.

The European Union: Mr. Mirco Schroeder, Mirco.SCHRODER@eeas.europa.eu | Programme Officer

Commencing with the tax period ending 31st March 2023, and for subsequent tax periods, taxpayers must electronically file with the BTSD a return required to be filed for the tax period under the relevant tax law and make payment. The Department will no longer be accepting tax payments or filing of tax returns in the office. Payment and returns will only be accepted through the portal. This is aimed at making filing tax returns and paying taxes faster, more convenient, and free while ensuring and fostering the safety and security of the BTSD employees, as well as taxpayers. Equally, this will assist BTSD in providing more efficient and timely service to our taxpayers.

Please be reminded that per the governing tax Acts: The TAPA; The Income and Business Tax Act, Chapter 55 Revised Edition 2020; and The General Sales Tax Act, Chapter 63 Revised Edition 2020 of the Laws of Belize, each taxpayer is under an obligation to pay taxes AND file a return on or before the deadline for each respective tax type.

To register for an IRIS Belize account, visit https://www.irisbelize.bts.gov.bz/CreateAccount

In order to facilitate the transition process, taxpayers may seek technical assistance from the IRIS Belize HELP DESK which may be contacted via telephone at +501 613-8375; +501 6132773; +501 614-5731; +501 613-4711; or email at onlineaccounts_bz@bts.gov.bz during the hours of 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Mondays-Thursdays, and 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM on Fridays.

Rehabilitated Nago Bank Road Provides Increased Market Access for Farming Cooperative

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE SECOND ROAD SAFETY PROJECT

CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of a Second Road Safety Project and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOB and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOB shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing.

The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment (MFEDI), the Executing Agency, now wishes to procure consultancy services for Traffic Law Enforcement for the Second Road Safety Project.

The objective of the consultancy is to assist the Department of Transport in strengthening capacity, focusing on road safety training and training of trainers of Enforcement Officers with appropriate pedagogical resources to support effective delivery to other officers, including topics like gender/masculinity and anger management, and in the revision of driver’s licensing tests (written and practical). The consultancy will also include the assessment of the status of the Safe Driving Manual, online questionnaire and use of these; identification of 2 or 3 communities where the new manual and on-line test can be implemented; and development of a communication plan to promote the manual through social media and the municipality’s websites and a Monitoring and Evaluation framework to record feedback from the new users and their progress as new drivers. The duration of the assignment is expected to be over a period of twelve (12) months.

February 17, 2023 - Today, the Resilient Rural Belize (RRB) Programme and the Ministry of Economic Development held an official ceremony to open Nago Bank Road in the Belize District. Present were Mr. Marconi Leal, Jr., on behalf of the Area Representative for Belize Rural North; Dr. Osmond Martinez, Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Economic Development; Mr. Servulo Baeza, Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise; Mr. Victor Espat, Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing; Mr. Valentino Shal, Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government; and Mr. Ruben Alexander Pineda, Chairman for the Los Pequeños Agricultores y Ganaderos de Nago Bank Co-operative Society Limited.

The Nago Bank community is identified as one of the most productive farming communities in the Belize District; however, they were severely limited in their ability to efficiently move their products from their farms to the markets. Originally, access was limited to tractor trails leading into the community that was best usable only during the dry season. During the rainy season, on the other hand, produce was brought out either by tractor, horse-drawn carriages, or four-wheel drive vehicles that were available within the community. Additionally, the movement of children to the schools and medical personnel coming into the community was severely limited.

As such, the RRB adopted the primary farming cooperative from the community, Los Pequeños Agricultores y Ganaderos de Nago Bank, as a key stakeholder to provide input towards establishing a roadway alignment and design development. This cooperative currently has over 15,000 tomato plants under cultivation and an equal number of sweet peppers, watermelons, and other such vegetables. It also has a contractual arrangement to deliver plantains to plantain chip facilities.

Given the amount of produce harvested in the community and the need for easy access to markets, a contract valuing BZ$1,734,102.34 for the upgrade of the Nago Bank Road was signed on May 9, 2022, between the Government of Belize and Teichroeb & Sons Limited. The upgrade was officially completed on January 11, 2023.

In his remarks, CEO Martinez emphasized that the roadway was primarily designed to provide year-round access for the farmers in Nago Bank to support climate-resilient productivity and improved market access through rehabilitation and provision of new roads and drainage. He further shared his delight for the community, who can now utilize the new road to generate an income for their families and for easier accessibility to educational and healthcare services.

The Resilient Rural Belize and the Ministry of Economic Development extend their gratitude to the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing, CEO Espat, and Mr. Lennox Bradley, Chief Engineer for the project, for their contribution to the upgrade of the Nago Bank Road, inclusive of the production design and supervision of the construction process and maintenance of the road.

MFEDI now invites interested eligible consulting firms to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) indicating qualification and experience required to provide these consultancy services. Consultants shall be eligible to participate if:

(a) in the case of a body corporate, it is legally incorporated or otherwise organized in an eligible country, has its principal place of business in an eligible country and is more than 50 per cent beneficially owned by citizen(s) and/or bona fide resident(s) of eligible country(ies) or by a body(ies) corporate meeting these requirements;

(b) in the case of unincorporated firms, the persons are citizens or bona fide residents of an eligible country; and

(c) in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial part of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.

Eligible countries are member countries of CDB. The Member Countries of the CDB can be found at the following web address: http://www.caribank.org/about-cdb/member-countries

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of CDB’s Guidelines for the Selection and Engagement of Consultants (2011), setting forth CDB’s policy on conflict of interest.

In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to technical competence, qualifications and experience, local and regional experience on similar assignments, financial capability and existing commitments. Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. All information must be submitted in English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 pm (local time) Monday to Friday.

The Expression of Interest must be received electronically at the first email addresses (Second Road Safety Project) and second email address (CDB) below no later than 3:00 p.m. (local time) on Friday, March 17, 2023. The subject line of the email containing each submission shall be clearly marked “Expression of Interest – Consultancy Services for Traffic Law Enforcement for the Belize Second Road Safety Project under the Ministry of Economic Development)”

Following the assessment of submissions, a short-list of not less than three (3) and not more than six (6) applicants will be provided with full terms of reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to undertake the assignment. GOB reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not shortlisting any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of Expressions of Interest.

1. Project Manager Second Road Safety Project #1904 Constitution Drive, Second Floor Belmopan City

Cayo District

BELIZE, C.A.

Tel: +501-822-3517

Email: procurementofficer.rsp@med.gov.bz projectmanager.rsp@med.gov.bz

2. Procurement Officer Procurement Policy Unit Caribbean Development Bank BARBADOS, W. I.

Tel: (+1 246) 539 1600

Email: procurement@caribank.org

N O T I C E

(Water Industry Act CAP 222 of the Substantive Laws of Belize (Revised Edition 2020))

1st March 2023

TO: BBR Holding Inc Mackinnon Belize Land & Development Limited

15 A Street 99 Albert Street

Belize City Belize City

Belize Belize

Re: All those pieces or parcels of land being Block A comprising 381.014 acres, Block B comprising 134.336 acres, Block C comprising 58.249 acres and Block D comprising 42.906 acres (“the Property”)

TAKE NOTICE that within fourteen (14) calendar days of receipt of this notice, Belize Water Services Limited (“BWSL”) and/or its employees, agents or contractors, shall pursuant to the powers conferred on BWSL at section 43 of the Water Industry Act, Chapter 222 (“the Act”) of the Substantive Laws of Belize (Revised Edition 2020) and all other enabling powers contained therein or otherwise enter upon the property for the purpose of securing and ensuring the supply, storage, purification, conveyance, support, measurement or regulation of water to the communities of the Placencia Peninsula through the use and extraction of water from two existing wells on the Property (“the Works”).

The Property shall be used for an approximate period of 12 months in the first instance but this period may be extended if necessary to further secure the supply, storage, purification, conveyance, support, measurement or regulation of water to the communities of the Placencia Peninsula

Please note ,as per section 43 of the Act, BWSL shall not be deemed to acquire any right other than that of user only in or over the Property over or upon which the Works shall be conducted and should any of the works so carried on, over or upon the Property, become a nuisance or cause of loss to the owner of the Property, BWSL shall, at his own expense, remove or alter such work or shall give such reasonable compensation.

EXECUTIVE OFFICER Belize Water Services Limited

CHIEF