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  • Mahler Says Tourism Upgrades Being Done “One Project at a Time”

    Mahler Says Tourism Upgrades Being Done “One Project at a Time”

    The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has inaugurated a new Artisans Market in San Pedro, marking a significant milestone in the country’s tourism infrastructure development. Located at the El Embarcadero site on Nurse Shark Street, the facility was completed in January using durable, coastal-appropriate materials designed to withstand weather conditions while accommodating up to ten vendors.

    During the opening ceremony, Belize Rural South Area Representative Andre Perez emphasized the market’s role in connecting visitors with authentic Belizean culture. “Every item purchased here will tell a story—a story of our home, our heritage, and most importantly, the honest Belizean work that accompanies it,” Perez stated.

    Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler positioned the project within a broader national strategy to enhance Belize’s tourism offerings. “These projects we’ve been working on throughout the country focus on how, one project at a time, we can improve the tourism product,” Mahler explained, referencing recent initiatives including the upgraded community center in Bullet Tree Falls.

    San Pedro’s mayor welcomed the development as a dedicated space for local talent and community pride, directly addressing artisans and vendors: “This market is for you.”

    However, the inauguration has been met with some concerns from local artisans who note that vendors have been relocated multiple times over the years. Some worry that the new facility may not accommodate all current sellers from the existing market, highlighting ongoing challenges in the transition process.

    The San Pedro Town Council will assume oversight responsibilities for the new market, which meets all required safety and accessibility standards.

  • Bajan students end Trinis’ four-year reign in cross-border AI stock market game

    Bajan students end Trinis’ four-year reign in cross-border AI stock market game

    In a landmark achievement for technology-enhanced education, Barbados has unseated four-time defending champions Trinidad and Tobago to capture the Caribbean Title Trophy through an artificial intelligence-driven virtual stock market competition. The victory marks a significant breakthrough in financial literacy development across CARICOM nations, signaling a transformative shift in how students engage with economic concepts and market dynamics.

    The five victorious students—Loki Clarke, Noah Clarke, Theon Birkett, Sarrayah Yearwood and Ajani Webster Worrell—were honored at Barbados’ Ministry of Educational Transformation amidst gathering of educators, financial sector leaders, and regional stakeholders. Their triumph in the WizdomCRM Virtual Stock Market Game from September to December 2025 represents both national pride and educational innovation.

    Barbados Stock Exchange CEO Marlon Yarde characterized the achievement as revolutionary for Caribbean financial education. “This moment truly signals a new era in financial education in the Caribbean,” Yarde stated, emphasizing that Barbados had secured “a first for our country and an achievement of which we can be immensely proud.” He credited regional collaboration and technological innovation for driving this educational breakthrough.

    The AI-driven platform employed generative artificial intelligence and gamification techniques to simulate real-world financial decision-making. Participants managed virtual portfolios across regional and international markets, developing critical analytical skills through hands-on experience with market risks, data interpretation, and investment strategies.

    According to competition data, Barbadian students demonstrated remarkable engagement levels, executing 128,960 trades on the Jamaica Stock Exchange and 27,379 trades on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange. Their investment focus concentrated primarily within transportation, consumer products, and travel and leisure sectors.

    Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw described the victory as a historic turning point that reflects Barbados’ broader educational reform agenda. “We have officially claimed the Caribbean Title Trophy, ending four consecutive years of Trinidad and Tobago’s dominance,” she announced, adding that such initiatives position students as “global digital citizens ready to make their mark in a rapidly evolving world.”

    Several schools were recognized for their outstanding performance, including Alexandra, Queen’s College, St Michael’s, Combermere, Frederick Smith Secondary, Harrison College and Grantley Adams Memorial. Individual excellence was particularly noted in Loki Clarke, who executed 113,873 trades to secure top position, followed by Noah Clarke with 34,286 trades.

    The program originated during COVID-19 pandemic response efforts when WizdomCRM Caribbean Limited developed innovative remote learning solutions at the Ministry of Education’s request. Participants receive US$25,000 in virtual funds to practice budgeting and investing across multiple cross-border exchanges while benefiting from integrated AI tutoring systems.

    “We believe that every child should have an AI assistant at the palm of their hands,” said Country Manager Charielle Plowden, noting the platform’s expansion across additional Caribbean territories including Cayman Islands and Bahamas. The initiative continues to strengthen collaboration among stock exchanges, government ministries, and regional education bodies.

    Ethan Knowles, Regional Communications Supervisor at RF Merchant Bank and Trust, underscored the program’s significance for youth development: “We’re very pleased to support this programme which is empowering young people across the Caribbean to pursue flourishing financial futures.”

    For participants like Loki Clarke, the experience proved transformative: “My career path has been completely altered. The game has really helped me with this AI platform in developing my skills and also financial literacy.” While maintaining confidentiality about his specific strategy, Clarke acknowledged focusing primarily on Jamaican and Trinidadian markets with daily trading activities.

  • SSB Puts BTL-SMART Decision on Hold

    SSB Puts BTL-SMART Decision on Hold

    The Social Security Board of Belize has postponed its verdict on Belize Telemedia Limited’s proposed acquisition of Speednet for the second time, citing insufficient information for a final determination. Board members convened in Belmopan on Wednesday, relocating from their Belize City headquarters due to a planned UDP demonstration, to scrutinize the transaction’s particulars.

    During the session, officials examined SSB’s substantial financial exposure in the deal, given the board’s existing ownership of over 34% of BTL shares. No formal vote was conducted as members unanimously agreed that additional clarification and comprehensive analysis were imperative before reaching any conclusion. The board confirmed that no approval has been granted for the telecommunications merger.

    This development marks the second deferral following the January 9 resignation of former SSB Chairperson Chandra Nisbet-Cansino, who reportedly opposed the acquisition as the board’s representative on BTL. Current board members have expressed similar reservations, with one official stating unequivocally that ‘members want more information.’

    The National Trade Union Congress of Belize has amplified these concerns, asserting in a pre-protest statement that there has been inadequate disclosure or meaningful consultation with contributors whose funds are potentially at risk. The NTUCB maintains that SSB should publicly oppose the transaction until complete due diligence is performed and contributor concerns are satisfactorily addressed.

  • BLP promises new payment system to tackle chronic delays to contractors

    BLP promises new payment system to tackle chronic delays to contractors

    In a significant policy announcement, Barbados Labour Party (BLP) representative Kerrie Symmonds has revealed plans to address chronic payment delays affecting businesses working with the government. Speaking at a political gathering in Welchman Hall, St Thomas, the St James Central candidate acknowledged the severe financial strain caused by the government’s inconsistent payment practices, which often leave contractors waiting months for owed compensation.

    The proposed solution involves implementing a financial mechanism known as factoring, designed to bridge the cash flow gap for businesses. Under this system, approved financial institutions would provide immediate payment to contractors for government-owed debts, with the government subsequently settling these debts with the financial institutions according to its own timeline.

    Symmonds illustrated the practical benefits using a hypothetical scenario: a business awaiting $50,000 in government payments could receive most of these funds immediately through a financial intermediary rather than facing months of operational uncertainty. While acknowledging that businesses might receive slightly reduced amounts (approximately 4-6% less) to account for the financial service, Symmonds emphasized that this compromise represents a significant improvement over the current system that jeopardizes business continuity.

    The candidate highlighted how this approach would enable businesses to meet payroll obligations, purchase necessary inputs, and maintain operations without being constrained by government payment delays. Financial institutions such as Fortress and Signia are expected to participate in this proposed program, providing vital liquidity to the contractor ecosystem while awaiting government reimbursement.

  • IICA reps meet with Bahamas agriculture minister to continue distribution to farmers in wake of Hurricane Melissa

    IICA reps meet with Bahamas agriculture minister to continue distribution to farmers in wake of Hurricane Melissa

    The Bahamas government, in partnership with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), has initiated a comprehensive agricultural support program for farmers devastated by Hurricane Melissa’s October impact. Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell personally oversaw the distribution of critical farming inputs in Exuma district alongside IICA’s Bahamas Representative Mari Dunleavy and her technical team.

    The catastrophic hurricane, which caused significant fatalities and widespread destruction across the Caribbean region, particularly damaged agricultural infrastructure throughout the Bahamian archipelago. Long Island emerged as one of the most severely affected areas, prompting coordinated international response efforts spearheaded by IICA to facilitate procurement and delivery of essential supplies.

    Minister Campbell acknowledged IICA’s crucial support, stating: “This collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to building agricultural resilience. Our ministry remains dedicated to implementing recovery strategies that will strengthen our food production systems against future climate challenges.”

    The initiative forms part of broader strategic policies aimed at enhancing national food security through reduced import dependency and promoted sustainable agricultural practices. Dunleavy emphasized IICA’s ongoing commitment: “The Bahamas has been advancing strategic initiatives to strengthen local food security and foster sustainable agricultural production, which we fully support through technical cooperation and resource mobilization.”

    Under Minister Campbell’s leadership, the recovery program integrates multiple developmental objectives including employment generation, support for traditional farmers and fisherfolk, and ensuring stable access to affordable fresh produce for the population. Notable components include expansion of sustainable agriculture projects and hydroponics systems across multiple islands, direct producer support through input provision and technical assistance, and value chain reinforcement through improved producer-distributor linkages.

    The Ministry has concurrently intensified focus on agricultural education, developing specialized programs with academic institutions to attract youth to the sector. Enhanced phytosanitary capabilities through mobile laboratories and improved crop protection measures further demonstrate the comprehensive approach to building a competitive, resilient agricultural sector capable of accessing international markets.

  • VN waarschuwt voor humanitaire ineenstorting in Cuba

    VN waarschuwt voor humanitaire ineenstorting in Cuba

    The United Nations has issued an urgent warning about an impending humanitarian collapse in Cuba as the United States intensifies efforts to completely blockade all oil supplies to the Caribbean nation. This alarming development comes amid severe fuel shortages that have triggered prolonged power outages across the island, including in the capital Havana, while simultaneously driving sharp increases in food and transportation costs.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric characterized the situation as ‘extremely concerning’ and cautioned that conditions would deteriorate further unless Cuba’s oil supply chain is secured. The warning follows more than three decades of repeated calls by the UN General Assembly for an end to the American trade embargo against Cuba, with Guterres now urging renewed dialogue and adherence to international law.

    The current crisis stems from the longstanding political enmity between Washington and Havana dating back to the 1959 revolution. The U.S. imposed a comprehensive economic embargo in 1962 after Fidel Castro’s government nationalized American-owned enterprises, and this sanctions regime has remained largely intact ever since.

    Cuba’s economy, already severely impacted by these measures, had previously relied on Venezuelan oil imports. These critical supplies were disrupted following controversial U.S. actions involving Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. President Donald Trump subsequently asserted control over Venezuelan oil resources and explicitly pledged to deprive Cuba of fuel, labeling the island nation an ‘unusual and extraordinary threat.’ The administration has further threatened imposing high tariffs on countries attempting to supply Cuba with oil, causing particular concern in Mexico.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed her government would employ all diplomatic channels to maintain oil shipments to Cuba while avoiding potential economic repercussions from U.S. tariffs. Mexico has announced plans to send humanitarian assistance and is negotiating with Washington for permission to deliver oil, though no agreement has been reached thus far.

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned Trump’s threats as an attempt to ‘strangle the Cuban economy under false pretenses’ and declared an ‘international emergency.’ According to data from analytics firm Kpler, Cuba currently possesses sufficient oil reserves for only 15-20 days of consumption.

    The U.S. Embassy in Cuba has additionally advised American citizens to prepare for ‘significant disruptions’ due to power outages and fuel shortages. Despite these tensions, both nations acknowledge maintaining backchannel communications, though these contacts have not yet evolved into formal diplomatic dialogue.

  • UDP Senator Pitts Says Unions are Free to Protest From Far

    UDP Senator Pitts Says Unions are Free to Protest From Far

    BELIZE CITY – A significant political demonstration on Wednesday revealed a stark divergence in protest methodologies between Belize’s organized labor unions and the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), despite their shared opposition to the proposed BTL-SMART acquisition. The events unfolded outside the Social Security Board (SSB) building, where both groups staged parallel protests that highlighted tensions over tactics and political alignment.

    National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) President Ella Waight emphatically distanced the labor movement from partisan politics, characterizing the union’s presence as a principled stand for workers’ rights and governmental accountability. Waight expressed strong criticism toward certain UDP supporters for their repeated attempts to breach the SSB compound perimeter, actions she stated undermined the legitimate aims of the labor protest.

    “The current approach of the Opposition is creating a problematic situation,” Waight stated during the demonstration. She revealed that SSB employees, who are members of the Christian Workers Union, had considered joining the external protest but were deterred by the escalating tensions at their workplace entrance. “They are now frightened. They will not emerge,” Waight added, emphasizing that the NTUCB’s objectives were fundamentally non-confrontational and focused on substantive issues rather than political theater.

    In contrasting remarks, UDP Senator Sheena Pitts rejected allegations that her party had operated beyond its protest permit parameters or intentionally attempted to violate the SSB compound. “There was no directive from party leadership for anyone to breach any building. Our demonstration strictly adhered to the permit we obtained,” Pitts asserted.

    The Senator further delineated the separation between the two protesting entities, noting, “The notion of a formal alliance or coordinated strategy between the UDP and labor unions is inaccurate. If unions elect to demonstrate from across the street or another location, that is entirely their prerogative.” Despite this operational separation, Pitts acknowledged both groups were aligned in their substantive opposition to the acquisition, framing it as “a common cause for all Belizeans.”

    Union leadership has subsequently reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining political independence, with News 5 confirming that labor organizations will abstain from participating in protests during Friday’s House session, opting instead to coordinate independent mobilization efforts scheduled for Tuesday.

  • Former BTL Employees Say 175 Still Await Severance Pay

    Former BTL Employees Say 175 Still Await Severance Pay

    BELIZE CITY – For the third consecutive day, members of the Belize Communication Workers for Justice (BCWJ) have maintained peaceful demonstrations outside Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) headquarters, intensifying their demands for severance payments allegedly withheld for over three decades.

    The labor advocacy group now asserts that at least 175 former BTL employees remain uncompensated, despite the telecommunications company having reached settlements with approximately 70 others. BCWJ representative Emily Turner revealed that the number of claimants continues to expand as additional former workers come forward.

    ‘Initially we documented around 200 cases, but our list keeps growing as more former employees establish contact with our organization,’ Turner stated during the protests.

    The contentious severance dispute traces back to 1994, when BTL operated as a national telecommunications monopoly. The legal landscape shifted significantly in 2025 when the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) issued a landmark ruling clarifying that pension benefits cannot legally substitute severance payments under Belize’s labor legislation, recognizing severance as a fundamental ‘social justice clause’.

    Turner emphasized the critical distinction between these compensation mechanisms: ‘Pension plans are jointly funded by employees and the company through contributions, whereas severance constitutes an employer’s exclusive obligation intended to provide financial security for retired workers, particularly older employees facing limited reemployment prospects.’

    The protests have encountered administrative hurdles, with police authorities denying permits for several planned demonstration days. This has prompted the BCWJ to formally appeal to the Commissioner of Police for intervention.

    Adding complexity to the dispute, the workers’ union has raised serious concerns regarding BTL’s proposed acquisition of competing provider Speednet (SMART), questioning the company’s capacity to pursue an $80-100 million acquisition while outstanding labor obligations remain unresolved.

    ‘We maintain our unwavering commitment to securing justice for these workers,’ Turner affirmed. ‘Our presence here demonstrates our determination to continue this fight until all rightful severance payments are fulfilled.’

  • Gully board: Bees’ Nicolls pledges eco-tourism revival for St Thomas

    Gully board: Bees’ Nicolls pledges eco-tourism revival for St Thomas

    Gregory Nicolls, the Barbados Labour Party’s candidate for St Thomas, has announced an ambitious ecological initiative to convert the parish’s extensive gully network into a premier eco-tourism destination. The proposal, unveiled during a political gathering in Welchman Hall, envisions creating miles of recreational pathways while simultaneously generating employment and stimulating rural economic development.

    Nicolls articulated his vision to revitalize these natural corridors, which once served as vital thoroughfares and social spaces for previous generations. “Our grandparents utilized these gullies as transportation routes and recreational areas,” Nicolls recounted. “My grandmother traveled from Christie Village to Proute through these gullies, and our uncles played cricket within them. We’ve allowed this essential ecosystem to become overgrown.”

    The comprehensive plan includes establishing approximately 25 kilometers of dedicated biking and walking trails through the restored gully system. This infrastructure would position St Thomas as a distinctive tourism attraction, potentially drawing visitors directly from Grantley Adams International Airport seeking unique ecological experiences.

    Beyond recreational amenities, the project emphasizes environmental restoration through the cultivation of indigenous flora. Nicolls specified that the initiative would encourage the proliferation of bougainvillea, ginger lilies, and fruit trees including guava, gooseberry, and cherry varieties, creating both visual beauty and ecological benefits.

    The economic dimension of the proposal involves creating employment opportunities for local youth in gully restoration and maintenance. Additionally, the plan incorporates local entrepreneurs, particularly village shopkeepers who could establish bicycle rental services catering to tourists exploring the gully network.

    Nicolls framed the initiative as a modern revival of the “Heart of Barbados” program specifically adapted for St Thomas, transforming neglected natural assets into sustainable economic and recreational resources for both residents and visitors.

  • Calvin Ayre Foundation Conducts Back-to-Back Medical Evacuations for Citizens in Urgent Need of Overseas Care

    Calvin Ayre Foundation Conducts Back-to-Back Medical Evacuations for Citizens in Urgent Need of Overseas Care

    The Calvin Ayre Foundation (CAF) has executed two critical medical evacuation operations in early 2026, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to addressing urgent healthcare deficiencies through strategic public-private partnerships. These life-saving missions were conducted in coordination with the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) and regional medical facilities.

    The Foundation’s first medevac mission of the year involved Mr. Paqual Peters, who required immediate pulmonary evaluation and treatment unavailable locally. CAF arranged and funded aerial transportation via CalvinAir Helicopters, while MBS provided comprehensive financial coverage for all medical procedures. Mr. Peters was transferred to Martinique under the medical supervision of Dr. Benjamin Bridge, Senior Registrar in Internal Medicine at Sir Lester Bird Medical Center, ensuring continuous care throughout the transition. The patient has since returned to Antigua following successful treatment, with his sister Esther King expressing profound gratitude for the Foundation’s intervention.

    Shortly following this operation, CAF coordinated a second emergency evacuation for a 15-year-old female patient requiring specialized care not accessible in Antigua. The adolescent was transported to Trinidad & Tobago for comprehensive medical assessment, diagnostic testing, and subsequent treatment. While MBS assumed responsibility for hospitalization and medical expenses, the Foundation contributed significantly to air ambulance costs. CAF worked collaboratively with the patient’s family and physicians to facilitate both compassionate and expedient transfer.

    Patrice Jacobs, Media Associate of CAF, noted: ‘The rapid succession of these emergencies has challenged our response capabilities, yet we remain dedicated to serving critical healthcare needs within our community. Providing swift assistance to this young patient and her family was both a privilege and honor.’

    These consecutive medical evacuations highlight the Foundation’s unwavering dedication to healthcare equity and demonstrate the powerful impact of collaborative efforts between private organizations and public institutions in addressing urgent medical necessities.