Successful Completion of Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) Training

A successful five-day training on Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) concluded on March 1st, 2024, with 30 participants receiving certificates of completion. This collaborative effort between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) took place at the Central Farm Tilapia Hatchery Conference Room in Belize.
The SHEP approach focuses on empowering smallholder farmers, encouraging them to view farming as a sustainable business. The emphasis is on enhancing both marketing and production skills, aligning with the overarching goal of promoting resilient and successful agricultural practices in Belize.
The Ministry of Agriculture and JICA express gratitude to all participants, acknowledging their commitment to advancing agricultural practices in Belize through the SHEP approach. This collaboration marks a significant step towards building a thriving and sustainable agricultural sector in the region.

Toledo Agriculture Department Takes Swift Action to Address Rising Vampire Bat Populations

Livestock farmers in the Toledo district are confronting a substantial challenge with the surge in vampire bat populations, intensifying the risks of rabies transmission. In a proactive response to this emerging concern, the Toledo Agriculture Department implemented comprehensive measures throughout the week. Executing a series of bat trappings in Bladen and Mafradi Villages, the initiative specifically targeted small cattle farms, addressing assistance requests received through the Belize Livestock Producers Association (BLPA). These requests predominantly came from farmers grappling with distressing attacks on their livestock.
The outcomes of the trapping efforts were remarkable, with a total of 23 vampire bats captured. To efficiently manage their population, the captured bats underwent meticulous procedures, including teeth clipping and pasting. Subsequently, the bats were responsibly released back into the environment.
This initiative underscores the Toledo Agriculture Department’s unwavering commitment to addressing the immediate challenges faced by livestock farmers in the district. Actively engaging in population control measures, the department aims to mitigate the impact of vampire bat attacks on livestock and, consequently, reduce the risks of rabies transmission.
Ongoing endeavors to raise awareness within the livestock community about the importance of preventive vaccination and efficient management practices persist. The Toledo Agriculture Department encourages collaboration and information sharing among farmers to collectively confront the challenges posed by vampire bat populations.

Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture Project host workshop with Project Implementing Units

The Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture Project (CRESAP) is currently hosting a two-day workshop for members of CRESAP, BEL, MOHW, BWSL, CED, and BSIF personnel. The workshop, hosted at the Ministry of Agriculture conference room, is being facilitated by Mr. Joao Quieroz, a Procurement Specialist from the World Bank.
The workshop is designed to equip participants with a thorough understanding of various facets related to World Bank projects in Belize. The agenda encompasses essential sessions on the World Bank’s overview, projects developed within the country, procurement rules, guidelines, standard procurement documents, Belize Portfolio, contract execution and monitoring, the STEP System, and fostering knowledge exchange among different Project Implementing Units (PIUs) engaged in projects across Belize.
The initiative’s primary goal is to enhance the expertise of participants, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to ongoing and future projects. By providing a platform for in-depth learning and collaboration, CRESAP aims to strengthen the capacity of personnel involved in climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture initiatives across Belize.

33rd Biennial Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association Conference

Veterinarians from across the Caribbean are convening in Belize for the 33rd Biennial Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association (CbVMA) conference. Hosted at the San Ignacio Hotel from March 5-7, 2024, this year’s conference focuses on the theme “One Health, One Caribbean, One Future: Veterinary Solutions Toward a Sustainable Tomorrow.”
The event encompasses a diverse range of lectures, including insights from world-renowned speakers participating in the One Health Initiative. Attendees will stay informed on animal nutrition, climate change impacts, wildlife diseases, and medicine. Interactive sessions on disaster preparedness will prepare participants for unforeseen challenges, and a holistic approach to understanding and managing burnout in Veterinary Medicine will round out the knowledge-sharing agenda.
This morning’s opening ceremony saw the presence of Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai, who emphasized the need to prioritize investments in veterinary education, services, and infrastructure. He stressed the importance of collaboration through the One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Hon. Mai called for strengthened regional identity and cooperation among political, public, and private sectors to address common challenges collectively.
Minister Orlando Habet underscored the urgency for the environment sector to comprehend its crucial role in One Health and encouraged collaboration between health and agriculture sectors. He advocated for a whole-society approach to tackle threats to health and ecosystems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being.
Dr. Gongora highlighted Belize’s newfound ability to contribute to the Caribbean and emphasized the three-day event’s focus on one health, poultry, companion animals, and the well-being of veterinarians. The commitment of the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and Environment to the One Health initiative was celebrated as a significant achievement, ensuring veterinarians receive the education needed for effective and impactful practices.
The conference serves as a platform for shared knowledge, collaboration, and commitment to building a brighter future for animal health and welfare in the Caricom and wider Caribbean region. It reflects the dedication of key ministries in setting policies and directions that empower veterinarians to excel in their crucial roles.
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Katahdins Sheep

— the perfect blend of friendliness, adaptability, and low maintenance. With their unique qualities, Katahdins are an excellent addition to any small farm. Through the Sheep and Goat Breeding Center we bring to you a golden opportunity to enhance and upgrade your herd, thanks to the support of the Taiwan Government and the Government of Belize.
Developed in Maine, USA, the Katahdin sheep is known for superior carcass quality. Shedding their winter coat naturally, these medium to large-sized sheep require minimal maintenance.
Their docile and friendly nature makes Katahdins easy to handle and seamlessly integrate into flocks, cultivating a positive and stress-free farming environment. With minimal treatment requirements, Katahdins demonstrate hardiness and health, ensuring a hassle-free farming experience while reducing dependence on parasite control.
Katahdins display a loving and protective instinct towards their lambs, enhancing the nurturing environment and contributing to the well-being and growth of the flock. Perfect for beginners and novice livestock keepers, their easy-to-handle demeanor makes them an excellent choice for those new to sheep farming.
Moderately social yet capable of venturing alone when feeling secure, Katahdins offer flexibility in communal living, ensuring individual sheep feel safe and content. Available in various shades, including white, brown, black, and red, they add visual diversity to the farm.
With a size range that strikes the perfect balance for small-scale farming – rams weighing 180–250 pounds and ewes weighing 125–185 pounds – Katahdins provide manageable size and strength. Ensuring comfort, protection, and peace of mind for both the farmer and the flock, Katahdins require wood shelters with proper ventilation and sheep-proof fencing for secure enclosures.
Their diet primarily consists of pasture grazing, supplemented with hay as needed, promoting the well-being and nutrition of Katahdin sheep and contributing to their overall health. Ewes and rams mature early, with ewes ready to breed at 10-12 months, supporting early and efficient reproduction cycles, and contributing to the growth and sustainability of the flock. A mature Katahdin ram thrives with a maximum of 30 ewes per breeding season.
Introduce rams only during mating time for improved record-keeping and optimal management.
Enjoying long, healthy lives due to mixed genetics and resistance to health issues, Katahdin sheep ensure a prolonged and productive lifespan, maximizing the benefits derived from each individual in the flock. Easily crossbred, Katahdin sheep produce offspring with shedding hair coats after about three generations, facilitating breed diversity and contributing to the development of resilient and adaptable sheep.
Contact us today at phone number 824-3032 to explore the world of Katahdin sheep and take your farming endeavors to new heights.

Project Execution Unit

Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security & Enterprise

Project (Monitoring & Evaluation)

Table 1 Projects for Budget Year 2023 -2024

No. Name of Project Funding/Executing Agency Project Description Start Date End Date External Funding

US$

 Counterpart Funding

BZD$

2022 -2023

Approved Budget

 Counterpart Funding

BZD$

2023 -2024

Budget Request

 Project Type Comments
1 Belize: Climate Resilient Sustainable & Agriculture Project World Bank   March 2023 March 2029 $25,000,000   $20,000  

National

 Ongoing
2 Digital Agriculture Services for a Sustainable and Inclusive Agri- Food System and Value Chains.

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization   Oct 2022 Oct 2024   $14,000 $14,000 National  
3 Belize Agriculture Sector Policy with focus on Seed, Back Yard Poultry Marketing and Indigenous People Affairs

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization   Oct 2022 Oct 2024   $14,000 $14,000 National  
4 Sembrando Vida

 

 AMEXCID   Oct 2022   $6,000,000 $16,000 $16,000 National  
5 Driving innovative financing and sustainable investments toward food system transformation and achieving SDGs in the Caribbean

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization   Dec 2022 Nov 2024 N/A   $5,000 Regional  
6 Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Multicountry Soil Management Initiative for Integrated Landscape Restoration and Sustainable Food Systems: Phase 1 (CSIDS-SOILCARE Phase 1) GEF       $70,000   $10,000 Regional  
7 Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods, Building Resilience-Investments in Cooperatives GEF   Jan 2024 June 2026 $150,000        
8 Sustainable and Inclusive Belize International Development Bank   Sept 2023 Sept 2029 $15,000,000 $3,850 $15,000 National Ongoing
9 Mesoamerica without Hunger Programme: Improve Food and Nutrition Security and encourage healthy eating habits in Belize through strengthening the school feeding programme Food and Agriculture Organization   Jan 2016 Dec

2024

 $70,000 $7,516 $7,516  

National

  

1 Year Extension Approved
10 Farmers´ Organizations for Africa, Caribbean and Pacific – Action in the Caribbean (FO4ACP – Caribbean)

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization To learn about and analyze the good practices developed by some organizations to access markets, strengthen their governance system, develop strategic alliances, provide rural services and influence policy dialogue.

To identify the main challenges, key actors and opportunities for rural organizations to improve their participation in the value chain..

 Oct 2020 Nov  2024 N/A $10,000 $10,000 Regional 1 Year Extension Approved
11 Follow-up Cooperation for Training on Development of Agricultural Cooperatives and Improvement of Management Capacity Japan International Cooperation Agency   Dec 2021 Dec 2024 $20,000 $14,000 $14,000 National 1 Year Extension Approved
12 Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project (Ph. II Project) International Cooperation Development Fund   March 2000 March 2025 $325,000 $20,000 $20,000  

National

 1 Year Extension Approved
13 Use of Nuclear and Isotopic Techniques for Optimizing Soil-Water-Nutrient Management in Rainfed Agriculture Systems     Jan 2021 Jan 2026 $183,294   $15,000 National  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 2. Projects Completed for Budget Year 2022 -2023

No. Name of Project Funding/Executing Agency Start Date End Date External Funding

US$

 Approved Cap II Funding BZ$ Comments Project Type Project Status
1 CARICOM-FAO-Mexico Initiative ‘Cooperation for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Caribbean’ subproject Resilient School Feeding program: GCP /SLC/018/MEX.

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization June 2018 May 2023 $200,000 $56,000 Third disbursement of $18,000 was not received.  

Regional

 Closed
2 Honey Production Redevelopment Support Project (Expansion of the Honey Production Sub-sector)

 

 Caribbean Development Fund November 2018 December 2023

 

 $315,942.25 $76,852.   National Closed
3 Covered Structures for Agricultural Production Caribbean Development Fund September 2019 December 2023 $233,933.50 $53,674.   National Closed
4 Technical Assistance for Inclusive, Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems in the Rural and Peri -Urban Areas of the Cayo District, as a Response to the COVID -19

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization August 2020 August 2023 $330,000 $12,930     Closed
5 Managing Belizean Agriculture Resilience (M-BAR) Food and Agriculture Organization March 2021 July  2023 $45,000 $10,000.   National Closed
6 Co-operatives’ Rapid Response to COVID19 and the 2020 Floods in Belize (UNDP-GEF-SGP/BEST/Dept. of Co-operatives

 

 GEF March 2022 December 2023

 

 $100,000 $8,000.   National Closed
7 Sustainable Development of Resilient VCs – Implementation of CARICOM COVID-19 Agri-Food Recovery Plan

 

 Food and Agriculture Organization November 2020 June   2023 $200,000

 

 $10,032.   Regional Closed
8 Strengthening Belize’s Evidence Base and Systems for Crisis Response World Food Program June 2022 July    2023 $302,447 $5,000.   National Closed
9 THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CASH BASED TRANSFER (CBT) DISTIBUTION THROUGH THE GOVERNMENT’S AGRICULTURE PLATFORM IN THE FRAMEWORK OF WFP’S CARIBBEAN MULTI COUNTRY STRATEGIC PLAN 2022-2026 (MCSP)

 

 World Food Program June   2023 September 2023 $363,400     National Closed
10 Empowering Women and Youths to generate income through Agro-processing and value addition of locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables International Cooperation Development Fund  

March 2023

  

May  2023

  

$20,000

 $17,500.   National Closed
                   

 

 

 

Pipeline Projects

 

2023 – 2024

 

Table 3. Project in the Pipeline

No. Name of Project

 

 Funding/Executing Agency Project Description Projected Cost (BZD) External Funding

US$

 Counterpart Funding

BZD$

 Project Type  
1 The Enabling of Belize Statistical System Food and Agriculture Organization Strengthening of the Belize Agriculture Management System   $162,000 $14,000 National New
2 Scaling the Implementation of the One Country One Priority Product Initiative (OCOP) Food and Agriculture Organization Sustainable and productive agrifood systems and agricultural value chains and inclusive rural societies   $150,000 $12,000 World Project New
3 Green House Project Food and Agriculture Organization Capacity Building for extension service on greenhouse designs construction and management.   $100,000 $10,000 National New
4 SCALA Private Sector Engagement (PSEF) Facility Service Food and Agriculture Organization Belize National Climate Change Policy, Strategy and Master Plan Belize which seeks to improve the management of 80,000 hectares under sustainable agricultural systems with biodiversity benefits and sustainable production of 500 agriculture and forestry farms covering 15,000 hectares   $50,000 $7,000 National New
5 Cool Storage Project Japan International Cooperation Agency Procurement of additional cool storage to extend the availability off season  of Onions and Potatoes   $75,000 $14,000 National New

 

 

 

The Belize Agriculture Information Management System (BAIMS)

 

What is the Belize Agriculture Information Management System (BAIMS)

The Belize Agriculture Information Management System (BAIMS) is a web-based application that serves as a central repository for all agriculture data. Data are used by farmers and policy makers to analyze agriculture data for proper timely decision making. BAIMS was developed by a local company, KYN Consulting from Corozal Town.

What Happens When a Farmer Registers!

A farmer who is registered under the Belize Agriculture Information Management System (BAIMS) is assigned a Farmer ID that is recognize by the Ministry of Agriculture. A Farmers ID is issued to a farmer after an Agriculture Officer registers the Farmer and visits the farm to collect and verify data.

Why is the data important?

Data obtained is crucial for the objective analysis of the agriculture sector’s contribution to the socio-economic development of Belize that includes GDP, national accounts and employment. The information received will also be used to:

  • Accurately identify farmers
  • Accurately identify farms by georeferencing their location
  • Project the demand and supply of products,
  • Link production to markets using the Virtual Trading Platform
  • Better deliver services to the farming community

In addition, the Ministry will take advantage of the technology available through Geographic Information Systems analysis to:

  • Use spatial data to evaluate, monitor and manage crop resources
  • Improve climate risk management which includes the rapid response and support to farmers in times of natural disaster
  • Design appropriate drainage and irrigation infrastructure
  • Implementation of disease surveillance systems
  • Monitor land use changes

How to register to the Belize Agriculture Information Management System?

To register visit your nearest District Agriculture Stations.

Cayo District Agriculture Office: 804-2129

DAC Mr. Jonathan Can- william.can@agriculture.gov.bz

Extension Officers

Mr. Jessie Madrid- jesse.madrid@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Moises Perez-moises.perez@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Frank Padron- franklyn.padron@agriculture.gov.bz

 

Belize District Agriculture Office #: 205-5088

DAC Mr. Miguel Balan: miguel.balan@agriculture.gov.bz

Extension Officers

Mr. Marvin Blades- marvin.blades@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Andy Che-andy.che@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Noel Ramos: Noel.Ramos@Agriculture.gov.bz

Mrs. Bernadette Cob- bernadette.cob@agriculture.gov.bz

 

Corozal District Agriculture Office #: 402-2297

DAC Mr. Fred Roches email: dac.cz@agriculture.gov.bz

Extension Officers

Ms. Melissa Balan: melissa.balan@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Carlos Martinez- carlos.martinez@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Samuel Cocom- samuel.cocom@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Leonardo Eck-leonardo.eck@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Roman Torres- roman.torres@agriculture.gov.bz

 

Stann Creek District Agriculture Office #: 502 – 2514

DAC Mr. Elsner Campos – dacstanncreek@agriculture.gov.bz

Extension Officers

Mr. Victor Kuk- victor.kuk@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Emilio Perez-emilio.perez@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Noel Ramos- noel.ramos@agriculture.gov.bz

 

Toledo District Agriculture Office #: 702 – 2689

DAC Mr. Denzel Castillo –denzel.castillo@agriculture.gov.bz

Extension Officers

Justaquio Tush – justaquio.tush@agriculture.gov.bz

Mrs. Heidy Canto-heidy.cob@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Andrew Che-andrew_che17@yahoo.com

Mr. Edgar Tuyud – bengi_you@yahoo.com

Orange Walk District Agriculture Office #: 343-2019

Acting DAC Mr. Sergio Hernandez – sergio.hernandez@agriculture.gov.bz

Extension Officers

Mr. Miguel Huertas- miguel.huertas@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Federico Chi – federico.chi@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Carlos Tzul- carlostzul@yahoo.com

Mr. Alberto Gutierrez-agutierrez@agriculture.gov.bz

Mr. Enrique Rivas- eragconsultancies624@gmail.com

Link Enlarge

The National Food and Nutrition Security Commission

The National Food and Nutrition Security Commission

Goal

To Coordinate and Advocate with all Sectors of the economy and other stakeholders on National Food and Nutrition Security matters, in order to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Belizeans.

Background:

The N.F.N.S.C. was established in 2001 with the primary goal of achieving national food and nutrition security objectives. This collaborative group consists of professionals from both government and non-governmental organizations, working collectively to address critical issues related to food security.

Advisory Role to Cabinet:

The Commission serves as an advisory body to the Cabinet, offering insights and recommendations on matters pertinent to Food and Nutrition Security in Belize.

Ministry of Agriculture Oversight:

Chaired by the Ministry of Agriculture, the N.F.N.S.C. benefits from oversight powers that guide policy formulation and program implementation.

Annual World Food Day Celebrations:

The N.F.N.S.C., in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization, actively participates in the annual World Food Day celebrations. World Food Day serves as a platform to promote global awareness and stimulate action to alleviate hunger. The event underscores the imperative to ensure food security and promote a nutritious diet worldwide. The collaborative efforts have not only enhanced the visibility of food security challenges but have also resulted in tangible actions to combat hunger globally.

Achievements and Contributions:

Policy Formulation:

The N.F.N.S.C. actively contributes to the formulation of policies aimed at addressing food and nutrition security issues.

Program Implementation:

Collaborative programs and initiatives have been successfully implemented, leading to positive outcomes in local and global contexts.

Challenges and Future Outlook:

Ongoing Challenges:

While progress has been made, challenges in achieving comprehensive food security persist, particularly in reaching vulnerable populations.

Future Initiatives:

The N.F.N.S.C. remains committed to exploring innovative strategies and partnerships to overcome challenges and further advance food and nutrition security objectives.

The collaborative efforts of the N.F.N.S.C., under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture, exemplify a dedicated commitment to addressing food and nutrition security challenges. The annual World Food Day celebrations stand as a testament to the collective determination to eliminate hunger and ensure a nutritious diet for all.

Activities

Some of the activities performed are:

  1. Build capacity in the Commission to assist in the implementation of the Food and Nutrition Security Policy.
  2. Enhance the knowledge, skills and entrepreneurship of all stakeholders involved in food and nutrition security.
  3. Raise awareness to the public by disseminating information to the public with respect to food and nutrition.
  4. Monitor and evaluate achievable plans recommended by all stakeholder to Cabinet Members in regards to food and nutrition situation of the country
  5. Establish functional linkages with other regional and international bodies involved with food and nutrition security.
  6. Promote adequate intake of micro and macro nutrients especially among women, children, the elderly and the most vulnerable.
  7. Ensure the development of sustainable, environmentally sound policies, plans and program for food and nutrition security.

Future Activities

  1. Expansion of Sustainable School Feeding Programs to the rest of the country.
  2. School Garden Trainings (MoE/MoA)
  3. Nutrition Education (MoE & MoH)
  4. Capacity building for Family Farming
  5. Governance workshop for MoA staff

Contact Information

Mr. Emilio Montero- Coordinator of N.F.N.S.C
Email: emilio.montero@agriculture.gov.bz
Phone #: 828-4804
National Agriculture and Trade Show Grounds, Belmopan, Belize, C.A.

Collaborators

Genetic Improvement in Sheep and Goat Project Transforming Belize Agriculture

Genetic Improvement in Sheep and Goat Project Transforming Belize Agriculture

Welcome to the impactful journey of Belize’s sheep and goat industry, shaped by the Genetic Improvement Project, generously funded by the Taiwanese Government and executed by Taiwan ICDF. Launched in 2015 at Central Farm, Belize, the project aimed to revolutionize the breeding and productivity of small ruminants.

Key Challenges Addressed:

  • The project identified and tackled critical issues, including poor breeding sheep quality attributed to a small paddock and insufficient facilities.
  • Inefficiencies in equipment and a lack of basic facilities were hindering the breeding activities, leading to an inability to meet the needs of farmers.

Collaboration and Diplomatic Relations:

  • Belize and Taiwan have enjoyed a fruitful collaboration since October 11th, 1989, focusing on mutual interests, socio-economic development, and agricultural initiatives.
  • This collaboration played a dynamic role in bringing together stakeholders in the Agriculture Sector, particularly in the sheep and goat sub-sectors.

Project Impact and Achievements:

  • Significant infrastructure development at the National Sheep and Goat Breeding Center in Central Farm, with a dedicated Sheep Barn capable of accommodating 650 sheep and goats.
  • Importation of 104 breeding stocks, including Dorper, Black Belly, Katahdin, Nubian, and Boer, resulting in 731 offspring of improved genetic quality sold to Belizean farmers.

Capacity Building and Training:

  • A robust training program has been implemented, with 400 sheep and goat farmers benefiting from more than 32 workshops covering topics such as feeding management, sheep husbandry, and pasture establishment.
  • Additionally, more than 12 lamb culinary craft workshops received rave reviews, showcasing a holistic approach to supporting farmers and enhancing the industry.

Current Sheep Population and Future Plans:

  • As of 2022, Belize boasts a sheep population of approximately 17,264, cared for by 474 sheep farmers—a remarkable increase attributed to the Taiwanese Government’s intervention.
  • The Ministry of Agriculture is gearing up for the next phase, submitting a project concept to ICDF Taiwan, focusing on marketing, value addition, and continuous capacity building for farmers.

Global Competitiveness and Traceability System:

  • Emphasis is placed on establishing a functional traceability system to enhance global competitiveness and fetch better prices for sheep and goat products.
  • The Ministry of Agriculture is determined to move the sheep and goat industry further down the value chain, ensuring sustainability and profitability.

Acknowledgments:

  • Warm appreciation is extended to the Republic of China Taiwan and the technical staff of ICDF and the Ministry of Agriculture for their dedication.

Join us in celebrating the achievements, progress, and promising future of Belize’s sheep and goat sector—a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment to agricultural excellence.

Handing Over Ceremony to mark the distribution of ten vehicles under the Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture Project

Today, a Handing Over Ceremony was held in Belmopan to mark the distribution of ten vehicles under the Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture Project (CRESAP). The recipients of these vehicles include the Meteorological Service, Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), Pesticides Control Board, University of Belize, Belize Marketing and Development Corporation (BMDC), and the Ministry of Agriculture.
The Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture Project (CRESAP) is an initiative developed by the Government of Belize and manage by the Belize Social Investment Fund, with crucial financial support from the World Bank. The project aims to bolster agricultural productivity and enhance resilience to climate change risks among targeted producers, while also ensuring a swift and effective response to any eligible crisis or emergency event.
The vehicles were allocated to key institutions vital to the success of the CRESAP Project. The CRESAP Project prioritizes four key districts – Cayo, Orange Walk, Corozal, and Belize – where the impacts of climate change and variability are expected to be more pronounced on crucial agricultural value chains such as sugar cane, rice, maize, soybean, vegetables, livestock, and fruits. With a Moderate environmental and social risk classification under the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework, the project underscores its commitment to balanced and sustainable development.
Approximately 2,500 individuals small-, medium-, and large-scale farmers, members of farmers’ organizations, as well as other stakeholders associated with agriculture food systems in the project districts, are expected to benefit directly. The project is anticipated to have an even broader positive impact on agricultural families, Ministry of Agriculture staff, and students from the Agriculture Department of the University of Belize, among others.
This Handing Over Ceremony symbolizes a pivotal step forward in fortifying Belize’s agricultural sector against the challenges posed by climate change. The government expresses gratitude to the World Bank for their invaluable support in realizing this transformative project.
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