Daily Online News (2025)

29/05/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Ministry of Investment Launches Sensitization on the Initial Steps of the Industrial Strategy with Blue and Green Policies

Belmopan, May 28, 2025.

On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, a pivotal moment unfolded for Belize's economic future as the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) officially began stakeholder engagement for the creation of the nation’s Industrial Strategy with Blue and Green Industrial Policies during an opening ceremony and sensitization session with senior officials held in Belmopan. This strategy represents Belize's first deliberate and comprehensive industrial policy, designed to foster sustainable, inclusive, and export-led industrial development.
The strategy aims to tackle long-standing challenges to diversify the economy and to identify economic sectors in Belize with growth potential that support poverty reduction. By adopting a "Green and Blue" approach, Belize seeks to promote productivity and competitiveness through resource efficiency and environmentally sustainable industrialization, aligning with global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The Government intends to identify specific economic activities in the blue and green economy, light manufacturing, agro-processing, and energy sectors.
The ceremony, attended by government officials, international partners, private sector leaders, and civil society representatives, underscored Belize's commitment to diversifying its economy, enhancing productivity, and creating new opportunities while championing environmental stewardship.
Present at the opening ceremony were Mrs. Narda Garcia, CEO in the Office of the Prime Minister, Investment, and Civil Aviation; Ms. Beverly Wade, CEO in the Ministry of the Blue Economy; Mr. Neri Ramirez, CEO of the Corozal Free Zone; Mr. Lincoln Blake, Director of the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU); Mr. Ishmael Quiroz, Executive Director of Beltraide; Dr. Anders Isaksson, Chief, Division of Industrial Policy Advice and Capacity Development at UNIDO; Mr. Christoph Hammer, Industrial Data Analyst at UNIDO; Mr. Frantz Smith, Investment Policy Officer, IPCU; Ms. Sandra Cuello, Director, Public Private Partnership Unit; and Dr. Dylan Vernon, Executive Director, University of Belize, Belize Policy Research Institute.
Following the opening ceremony, attendees participated in a comprehensive session covering critical topics such as:
• Historical and current developments and goals of industrial policy.
• The importance of data, industrial statistics, and analyses, including an introduction to The EQUIP Toolkit.
• Policy design, policy instruments, and implementation strategies.
• Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) frameworks, capacity building, and the role of a Policy Support Unit (PSU).
The "Industrial Strategy with Blue and Green Industrial Policies" is poised to guide Belize toward a new era of economic resilience, innovation, and environmental responsibility.

This is Jacob Romero for Daily Online News!

27/05/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Empowering Coastal Communities: UK-Funded LSAP Project Celebrates Milestones in Belize

Belmopan, Belize – 26 May 2025

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (UK FCDO), in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH), the Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF), and BELTRAIDE, proudly highlights the achievements and upcoming milestones of the Livelihoods Strategy and Action Plan (LSAP) under the UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF).
As part of the wider UKCIF Coastal Road Upgrading Project, made possible through a $32 million grant from the UK FCDO, the LSAP aims to build economic resilience and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in Gales Point Village and Mullins River Village.
Key achievements to date include:
• Formalization and registration support for 80 Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including 43 female-owned and 37 male-owned businesses.
• Entrepreneurial development training for 72 participants, of which 59 completed the certification.
• An upcoming Buy Belizean Expo in Dangriga Town on June 14, 2025, featuring 14 MSMEs and 6 formalization and support agencies.
On May 24, 2025, a certificate ceremony was held at Gales Point Village Primary School to recognize the accomplishments of 59 participants who completed the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program. This training focused on sustainable, community-based business development and was facilitated by BELTRAIDE through its Small Business Development Centre (SBDCBelize).
This milestone reflects the joint commitment of UK FCDO, CDB, MIDH, BSIF, and BELTRAIDE to inclusive economic development, job creation, and community empowerment. The LSAP target was to support the formalization of 40 MSMEs; the actual number, 80 businesses, represents double the target, showcasing strong community engagement and a deepening commitment to entrepreneurship in both villages.

This is Jacob Romero for Daily Online News!

23/05/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Statement on the Return of Belizeans to Belize by the United States Government

Belmopan, May 22, 2025.

Last Friday, the Government of Belize was notified by the Government of the United States of its decision to repatriate a number of Belizeans to Belize via a chartered flight. Over the last few days, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration, the Embassy of Belize in the United States, and the Belize Police Department have been coordinating to confirm the Belizean nationality of the returnees and to ensure that they have the requisite travel documents, as is the usual practice.

This morning, the United States Government-chartered flight arrived at the Phillip S.W. Goldson International Airport to return 21 Belizeans to Belize. These 21 Belizeans will be received and processed in the same manner as any other Belizean being repatriated to Belize by a foreign government.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration takes seriously its consular duty to ensure that the rights of all Belizeans abroad are respected and that they are treated with dignity in accordance with international law, irrespective of their migration status in a foreign country. The Government of Belize maintains its position that all Belizeans abroad are welcomed home.

This is Roberto Diaz for Daily Online News.

20/05/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Winners Announced for the 2025 National School Garden Competition

Belmopan, May 19, 2025.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE) announces the winners of the 2025 National Agriculture and Trade Show School Garden (NATS-SG) Competition. The competition featured the participation of 30 schools across the country, each demonstrating dedication, creativity, and passion for promoting sustainable agriculture through school gardening.
Primary School Category Winners:
• 1st Place – San Victor R.C. School (Corozal District)
• 2nd Place – San Antonio Government School (Corozal District)
• 3rd Place – Sandy Creek Academy (Stann Creek District)
• 4th Place – Chan Chen Government School (Corozal District)
• 5th Place – Bullet Tree Seventh Day Adventist School (Cayo District)
High School Category Winners:
• 1st Place – Belize High School of Agriculture (Orange Walk District)
• 2nd Place – Belmopan Comprehensive School (Cayo District)
• 3rd Place – New Hope High School (Orange Walk District)
The first and second-place winners will be officially awarded at the Opening Ceremony of the National Agriculture and Trade Show (NATS) on May 30th, 2025.
The ministry extends gratitude to all participating schools for their hard work and commitment to agricultural education. Special thanks are extended to the students, teachers, and parents whose teamwork and enthusiasm brought each garden to life. Appreciation is also expressed to the dedicated judges and extension officers across the country for their invaluable support and contribution to the successful ex*****on of this national event. As this year’s competition concludes, anticipation builds for an even greater School Garden Competition in 2026. Continued efforts to nurture young minds through agriculture remain a national priority in the pursuit of a greener Belize.

This is Jefferson Castillo reporting for Daily Online News!

18/05/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Ministry of Health Receives Donation of Medical Equipment from Taiwan

Belmopan. May 15, 2025.

Today, the Government of Belize, through Hon. Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health & Wellness of Belize, received a generous donation of medical equipment from the Cao Zhong Zhi Foundation, a Taiwanese NGO that has long supported Belizean people in need. The donation was handed over to the Minister by H.E. Lily Li-Wen Hsu, Ambassador of Taiwan to Belize, on behalf of the Foundation.
This donation is made possible through the partnership of the NGO and the Taiwanese Government. The Foundation provided a total of 250 adult wheelchairs, 50 children’s wheelchairs, 80 toilet chairs, 160 aluminum walkers, and 400 aluminum canes, while the Taiwanese Government covered the shipping cost. These essential medical supplies will significantly enhance the quality of life for many Belizeans and bolster the nation’s healthcare service.
Taiwan has long been a dedicated partner of Belize in public health. Taiwan also continues to contribute meaningfully to the global health community. Today’s donation reaffirms Taiwan’s commitment to supporting Belize and highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling global public health challenges.
The Government of Belize extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Cao Zhong Zhi Foundation and the people and Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for their longstanding friendship and support. Belize will continue to advocate for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and the annual World Health Assembly.
The partnership between Belize and Taiwan is a shining example of international cooperation. We look forward to continued collaboration with Taiwan and other global partners to further strengthen Belize’s health sector.

This is Rick Alvarado from Daily Online News reporting.

18/05/2025

Press Release
Dallas,Texas

The Belize Day [Dallas Edition] planning committee hereby informs all Dallas-based Belizeans and friends from near and far that Belize Day (Dallas) 2025 has been canceled.
We make this difficult decision in light of the recent US immigration policies being enacted which have created a general atmosphere of fear and anxiety amongst immigrant communities, including those of our Belizean brothers and sisters.
Our event has brought joy, happiness and a sense of togetherness to attendees since 2012 and we feel that this will be dampened by the existential threat of an ICE presence.
We wish everyone a safe and happy Independence and hope to see you all again in 2026.

This is Corin Valdez for Daily Online News.

18/05/2025

PAHO/WHO and the European Union Officially Hand Over the Retrofitted Central Medical Laboratory to Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness

Belize City, Belize, May 16, 2025 (PAHO) – Marking another major milestone in the Health Sector Support Programme Belize Project, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the European Union (EU) officially handed over the newly retrofitted Central Medical Laboratory (CML) to the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW). The laboratory, now designated a ‘Smart Health Care Facility,’ has been upgraded to be safer, more resilient, and environmentally sustainable.
As Belize’s national clinical, diagnostics, and reference laboratory, the CML plays a critical role in providing diagnostic services and technical support to regional and local laboratories in the country. However, years of deterioration, hazardous conditions, and even a fire in 2006 left the laboratory in urgent need of refurbishment to ensure it could continue to fulfill its national role as a critical component of the health system.
“The retrofitting of the Central Medical Laboratory represents a major step forward for public health in Belize,” said Dr. Karen Lewis-Bell, PAHO/WHO Representative in Belize. It aligns with PAHO’s mandate to build resilient health systems through smart interventions. It not only enhances safety and resilience but also ensures continuity of essential diagnostic services during emergencies. PAHO/WHO Belize is proud to partner with the EU and the MoHW in strengthening Belize’s health care facilities to be more climate-resilient and people-centered.”
With an estimated USD$800,006.67 investment, the CML underwent significant retrofitting to improve safety, functionality, and sustainability. Key upgrades included:
• Mold remediation and installation of a new central fresh air unit to improve air quality and reduce mold growth.
• Enhanced safety measures, including installation of showers, eyewash stations, and under-sink acid neutralization tanks.
• Green energy initiatives like LED lighting, inverter air conditioners, low-flush toilets, and low-flow faucets.
• Flood risk mitigation by relocating the main electrical room from the ground floor to the second floor.
• Electrical system upgrades, including new wiring, breaker panels, and cables.
• Water system improvements, including a water storage tank, a filtration system, and a solar water heater.
• Improved equipment access through the addition of a second-floor access door.
• Building refurbishment, including interior and exterior painting, replacement of broken tiles, new cabinets and sinks, new glass panels and doors, and a renovation of the outdoor staircase.
Additionally, the laboratory’s ground floor, which was inoperable due to fire damage, has now been restored, increasing the laboratory’s working space by 50 percent.
“I am very happy to be here today to inaugurate the renovated Central Medical Laboratory, as I can see the concrete implementation of the EU support in Belize,” stated H.E. Dr. Erja Eskola, EU Ambassador to Jamaica, Belize, and the Bahamas. “Everybody knows the importance of having a modern laboratory for analysis and diagnosis, and I know such a renovation means something for the populations who need to have access to improved healthcare and good medical facilities. I am glad to see that the EU is making a difference in this respect. The association EU /PAHO with the Government of Belize is a remarkable illustration of the importance of shared values among partners, as it can create opportunities to better work and achieve more for the benefit of the people. Over the last 30 years, the longstanding relationship between the Government of Belize and the European Union has produced many successes and built prosperous relationships.”
In the coming months, the laboratory will also receive solar panels valued at USD$318,437.88, which will further enhance its energy resilience and enable continuous operations during power outages or natural disasters.
“Actions taken by the Ministry of Health and Wellness to improve the laboratory services are not only limited to the refurbishing of the physical building,” shared Hon. Kevin Bernard, Minister of MoHW. “Efforts have also been made in the area of capacity building of the staff, reviewing Standard Operating Procedures and service protocols. These are necessary components for the laboratory services to move towards regional accreditation. In order to strengthen the laboratory services nationally, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has invested in recruiting more medical technologists in other districts.”
The CML was one of six health facilities in Belize retrofitted under the EU-Funded Health Sector Support Programme, implemented by PAHO/WHO in collaboration with the MoHW. With over 8.8 million Euros in funding, this is one of the largest health sector projects in Belize, aiming to build disaster-resilient and climate-friendly facilities while also strengthening the health information system and improving the structure, organization, and management of health services.
PAHO/WHO remains committed to supporting Belize’s health sector in becoming more resilient and equitable by collaborating with partners like the EU and the MoHW to “achieve a better quality of life, for all Belizeans, living now and in the future.”
About PAHO/WHO
The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of their populations. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system.
For further information, please contact Zenena Moguel, Communications and Visibility Specialist, at [email protected] or visit paho.org/en/belize.

Daily Online News reporting, this is Josue Teichroeb.

14/05/2025

Miss Universe Belize Official

PRESS RELEASE

Cayo District, May 13, 2025

From May 9th to 11th , 2025, the Miss Universe Belize Foundation Ltd. hosted its second annual Pageant Intensive in the scenic Cayo District. Held at the beautiful Cahal Pech Village Resort, the Pageant Intensive is a core developmental initiative designed to equip our delegates with the skills, confidence, and knowledge they need to perform at their very best throughout the competition.
Over the course of three dynamic days, the delegates engaged with several industry professionals across key areas including media and communications/public speaking, fashion, hair and makeup, runway walk, and social media branding. These sessions focused not only on best practices but also on the expectations and responsibilities of each delegate as they continue their journey to the Miss Universe Belize crown.
Each workshop was followed by practical challenges aimed at assessing the delegates' understanding-what we like to call "seeing if they understood the assignment."
A major highlight of the intensive was a journey to the breathtaking Chan Chich Lodge, where the delegates took their official headshots and other key photographs as part of the 2025 Miss Universe Belize cohort.
During the intensive, we also received formal notice from Samalia Vernon of her decision to withdraw from this year's competition , with plans to return and compete in 2026 . We fully support Samalia in her choice and are incredibly proud of her. We look forward to her future participation.
The Miss Universe Belize Foundation Ltd. extends heartfelt thanks to our incredible sponsors and partners whose generosity and belief in our mission continue to make these milestones possible:
NexGen, The National Channel, Cahal Pech Village Resort, Chan Chich Lodge, Belize Estate Company Limited, Elite Logistics and Fulfillment, Running W Brand Meats, Winehouse Belize, Inter District Shipping, Maria Estella Beauty Salon, Salon Essentials, Cahal Pech Cabins at Carmelitas, Pink Boutique, and Photography by Quilz Tamay.
Your support empowers our delegates and strengthens the platform that Miss Universe Belize represents.
We'd also like to recognize our partners, whose continued collaboration ensures the success of our program and the empowerment of Belizean women through this life-changing experience.
The journey to the crown continues.

This is Pablo Alonzo reporting for Daily Online News.

14/05/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Minister Mira and CEO Usher Briefed on Belize Coast Guard Command Plans

Belmopan, May 13, 2025.

Hon. Oscar Mira, Minister of National Defence and Border Security, and CEO Francis Usher met with the Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, and other senior officers for a briefing on the Coast Guard’s Command Plan for the next 12 months.
The session occurred during the Belize Coast Guard’s Senior Officers Conference, held May 8–9 at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Key focus areas were recruitment, welfare programs, capacity building, and infrastructure development.
The Belize Coast Guard continues to demonstrate commitment to national security and maritime excellence.

This is Destinee Gentle reporting for Daily Online News.

14/05/2025

NEW CONTROLLED PRICES FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)

The Supplies Control Unit (SCU) in the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise is hereby informing the general public that effective Wednesday, May 14h, 2025, new controlled prices will be introduced for the sale of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). This change now reflects the sale by wholesale volume and retail sale by volume in both urban and rural areas.
These prices reflect an increase of BZ $ 0.19 per gallon for the current shipment, resulting primarily from an increase in the acquisition price.

Daily Online News, this is Jacqueline Forrester reporting.

09/05/2025

Leo XIV is the new Pope

"Peace be with all of you!" - the first words of Pope Leo XIV. The Conclave has elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome. The new pope was announced to the waiting crowds by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti.

Annuntio vobis gaudium:
HABEMUS PAPAM
Eminentissimum ac reverendissimum Dominum Robertum Franciscum
Sanctae Romane Ecclesiae Cardinalem Prevost
qui sibi nomen imposuit Leo XIV
I announce to you a great joy:
WE HAVE A POPE
The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord Robert Francis
Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost
who has taken the name Leo XIV

Today, from the central loggia of Saint Peter's Basilica, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti pronounced the formula "Habemus Papam," proclaiming to the city of Rome and to the whole world the news of the election of Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as Pope Leo XIV.

This is Trent Francis reporting for Daily Online News!

09/05/2025

Press Release

CLOSURE OF THE QUEEN CONCH FISHING SEASON

May 08, 2025

The Belize Fisheries Department hereby informs all fishers and the public that, in accordance with Statutory Instrument No. 54 of 2012, the Honourable Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, will declare the Queen Conch (Strombus gigas) fishery closed at the close of business on May 25, 2025. This is necessary due to the realization of the Queen Conch production quota for the 2024–2025 fishing season.
The fishing community is advised that all conch fishing activities shall cease as of this date until the opening of the next fishing season on October 1, 2025. The Belize Fisheries Department further advises all establishments and the public to use, consume, and dispose of all Queen Conch meat in their possession on or before May 25, 2025. Any person or establishment found in possession of Queen Conch meat after May 25, 2025, will be charged and prosecuted in a court of law in accordance with the Fisheries Regulations.
The Fisheries Department advises the Public to report any illegal fisheries activity by calling telephone number: 224-4552

This is Gabriel Alejandro Ortiz for Daily Online News.

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