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New debt-for-social swap to boost education, healthcare, heritage – minister
Barbados is spearheading a groundbreaking debt-for-social swap initiative aimed at redirecting savings from restructured sovereign debt into vital social programmes, including education, healthcare, and heritage preservation. Economic Affairs Minister Kay McConney unveiled the plan during her address at the United Nations BCCI Private Sector Forum held at the Hilton Barbados Resort on Tuesday. McConney emphasized that the forum was not merely a discussion but a call to align national priorities with private sector capabilities and adopt international best practices tailored to Barbados’ unique needs. She stressed that traditional financing models are inadequate for achieving the nation’s ambitious goals, necessitating innovative approaches. The debt-for-social swap will restructure existing debt to reduce interest payments, with the savings allocated to high-priority social initiatives. McConney explained the mechanism succinctly: “You restructure the debt, reduce the interest rate, and commit the savings to specific purposes like climate, nature, or social programmes.” This initiative builds on Barbados’ successful track record of innovative financing, including the Blue Bond debt-for-nature swap with The Nature Conservancy, which redirected $150 million toward marine conservation and climate adaptation. Similarly, the 2024 debt-for-climate swap repurposed $300 million in domestic debt, generating $125 million in fiscal savings for climate-resilient projects. McConney assured that the debt-for-social swap would not increase the island’s overall debt burden but would strategically utilize existing obligations to create fiscal space for critical social investments. She highlighted the indispensable role of the private sector in supporting these initiatives, urging collaboration among government, businesses, banks, and development partners. “The social swap allows us to channel resources to where they matter most, without adding to our debt base,” McConney stated. “It is an example of how financial innovation can serve human development, and we are inviting the private sector to be partners in this journey.”
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Column: Welbegrepen eigenbelang
During the general political deliberations, President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons of Suriname outlined a series of transformative reforms aimed at addressing long-standing issues in land policy and education. Her proposals, which have been met with cautious optimism, seek to rectify systemic inefficiencies and promote equitable development across the nation.
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W.K-droom Suriname uiteengespat na pijnlijke 3-1 nederlaag tegen Guatemala
Suriname’s long-held aspiration to qualify for the FIFA World Cup was dashed on Tuesday evening in a disheartening 3-1 loss to Guatemala. The match, held under immense anticipation, saw Suriname fall behind early with a 1-0 deficit, which only worsened as the game progressed. Despite a late own goal by Guatemala in stoppage time, the result was never in doubt, leaving Suriname’s hopes in tatters. The defeat was particularly bitter as Panama, their direct competitor, secured a 3-0 victory over El Salvador, clinching their spot in the final tournament. Suriname now faces a last-ditch opportunity to qualify through the CONCACAF Confederation Playoffs, though the pressure will be even greater. The loss has left fans, both in Suriname and the diaspora, deeply disappointed, but their unwavering support remains a silver lining in this challenging moment.
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Two Cabinet Reshuffles in a Week Raise Questions About Stability
In an unprecedented move, Belize’s Briceño administration has undergone two Cabinet reshuffles within a single week, raising questions about the stability and direction of the government. The latest adjustments were finalized during a high-level meeting of senior ministers at the Sir Edney Cain Building in Belmopan. This comes just days after the People’s United Party (PUP) celebrated its fifth anniversary in office, a milestone overshadowed by sudden resignations and portfolio reassignments. Prime Minister John Briceño addressed the changes, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in governance. He clarified that only one reshuffle had been officially enacted, despite reports suggesting multiple adjustments. Among the notable changes, Orange Walk South Area Representative Jose Abelardo Mai resigned from his role as Minister of Agriculture, a position he held since the PUP’s rise to power in 2020. His successor, Rodwell Ferguson, brings extensive experience as a deputy party leader and long-serving area representative. Meanwhile, Belmopan Area Representative Oscar Mira has transitioned from Minister of National Defense and Border Security to Minister of Home Affairs and Enterprise, a move aimed at addressing cross-border security concerns. Other key appointments include Florencio Marin Jr. taking over National Defense and Oscar Requena returning to his former role in Rural Transformation and Community Development. These rapid changes have sparked debates about their implications for governance and voter confidence in the administration.
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Jose Mai Steps Down Amid Health, Speculation Swirls
In a surprising turn of events, Jose Abelardo Mai, Belize’s Minister of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise, resigned from his Cabinet position on Monday, November 18, 2025. Prime Minister John Briceño attributed Mai’s departure to health concerns, specifically an upcoming back surgery. However, the resignation has sparked widespread speculation, as the timing coincides with recent controversies and diplomatic murmurs. Notably, Mai had recently traveled to Brazil to represent Belize at the Conference of Ministers of Agriculture, raising questions about the severity of his condition given the extensive travel involved. Prime Minister Briceño emphasized Mai’s contributions, calling him the best agriculture minister since 1981, but the distinction between resignation and a leave of absence has left many skeptical. Mai’s recent public appearances, including photos on the Ministry’s Facebook page, showed no visible signs of health issues, further fueling doubts. Despite Briceño’s assurances that the U.S. Embassy had no role in Mai’s resignation, the lack of transparency has left the public questioning the true reasons behind the decision. Mai remains the Area Representative for Orange Walk South, but his ability to serve effectively post-surgery remains uncertain. Requests for comment from Mai have gone unanswered, leaving the future of his political career in limbo.
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Mai’s Sudden Exit Adds Fuel to Cabinet Turmoil
The Briceno administration faced heightened turmoil as Orange Walk South Area Representative Jose Abelardo Mai abruptly resigned from his position as Minister of Agriculture on Monday. Mai’s departure came amid escalating allegations of cartel involvement and mounting pressure from the U.S. Embassy to address these accusations. The resignation occurred during an ongoing Cabinet reshuffle, which Prime Minister John Briceno initiated last Tuesday to mark the administration’s fifth anniversary. The sudden vacancy in the agriculture portfolio has intensified political tensions, with Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton demanding transparency from the Prime Minister regarding the circumstances surrounding Mai’s exit. The administration is now grappling with the dual challenges of restoring public trust and stabilizing its leadership team.
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Coast Guard Busts Illicit Cigarette Cargo in Corozal Free Zone
In a significant crackdown on illicit trade, the Belize Coast Guard has intercepted a large shipment of contraband cigarettes near the Corozal Free Zone, raising concerns about security and oversight in one of the country’s busiest commercial hubs. The operation, conducted around midnight on October 12, 2025, targeted suspicious cargo believed to be destined for Mexico. Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard, confirmed the seizure, stating that the cargo was discovered outside the zone’s permit area. Despite the successful interception, no individuals were detained as they fled upon the Coast Guard’s approach. The seized goods were promptly handed over to the police and customs departments in the presence of a justice of the peace. Admiral Bennett emphasized the Coast Guard’s increased operations in the northern border region, particularly around the Rio Hondo River, which has become a hotspot for illicit activities. While the exact origin of the cargo remains under investigation, authorities suspect it may have originated from the Corozal Free Zone. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in combating cartel influence and illegal trade in the region.
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Cartel Influence at Belize’s Northern Border?
Growing concerns over cartel activity near Belize’s northern border have prompted Prime Minister John Briceño to address the issue publicly. Reports suggest that criminal networks are increasingly encroaching on the Corozal Free Zone, raising alarms about national security. Briceño acknowledged the seriousness of the threat, emphasizing his government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation. He highlighted recent efforts to bolster border security, including increased patrols by the police, Belize Defence Force (BDF), and Coast Guard. An additional $8 million has been allocated to equip these forces with necessary resources and compensate them for extended working hours. Briceño, who has consistently expressed concerns about cartel influence since taking office in 2020, reiterated that the safety of Belize’s citizens remains the top priority. Despite the challenges, the administration remains resolute in its efforts to curb cartel infiltration and protect the country’s borders.
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Coast Guard Ramps Up Security Amid Corozal Free Zone Threats
In response to escalating security concerns around the Corozal Free Zone, the Belize Coast Guard has significantly bolstered its patrols and surveillance efforts. Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the threats are genuine and deeply rooted in illicit trade activities. While the Coast Guard has not yet confirmed the involvement of cartel operatives in the recently seized cargo, Bennett underscored that the individuals behind these operations are undoubtedly engaged in illegal trade. The seized cargo, found outside the designated Free Zone area along the riverside, was suspected to be en route to Mexico, prompting the Coast Guard’s intervention. Bennett clarified that the Coast Guard does not operate within the Free Zone itself, limiting their direct oversight of cargo storage and shipment dynamics. However, the discovery of unauthorized cargo movements has raised significant alarms, leading to heightened security measures. Despite the operation, no individuals were detained, and the specific groups responsible remain unidentified. The Coast Guard’s proactive stance aims to curb criminal networks and ensure the safety and integrity of the region’s trade activities.