In a significant advancement for rural infrastructure, the Belizean Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development and Local Government, in collaboration with UNICEF, has inaugurated two major water supply projects in the Toledo District. These initiatives mark a transformative step in ensuring sustainable access to clean water for remote communities.
The first project, unveiled Wednesday morning in San Jose Village, features a comprehensively upgraded water system engineered for long-term durability. The installation incorporates solar panel technology alongside a backup generator, creating a hybrid power solution that guarantees uninterrupted water service regardless of weather conditions or grid instability.
A second inauguration ceremony held later that day in Yemeri Grove celebrated the activation of an entirely new water system. This development resolves a longstanding challenge where residents previously depended on a shared water supply with neighboring Laguna Village, often resulting in inadequate water access for both communities. The new infrastructure comprises a dedicated production well, an elevated reservoir, and a submersible pump, all integrated into a distribution network connected to Belize Electricity Limited’s power grid. This system now reliably serves 121 households in Yemeri Grove.
The ceremonial events were attended by key stakeholders including Oscar Requena, Minister for Rural Transformation; Dr. Olusola Oladeji, Health and Nutrition Specialist at UNICEF; Valentino Shal, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry; alongside local village leadership and community members who will directly benefit from these critical infrastructure improvements.