For many residents of Belize City, a recent 12-hour blackout felt like a throwback to the dark ages. However, for thousands living in rural Belize, the absence of reliable electricity is a daily reality. Approximately 7% of the country’s population remains disconnected from the national grid, a stark reminder of the challenges faced by underserved communities. In a significant move, Prime Minister John Briceño has established a special committee tasked with devising innovative and cost-effective solutions to bring power to these areas. This initiative marks a pivotal step toward achieving universal electricity access, a goal long deemed too costly or unattainable. Dr. Leroy Almendarez, CEO of the Ministry of Public Utilities & Energy, emphasized the importance of electrification for education, connectivity, and overall development. The committee, chaired by Dr. Almendarez, is exploring a multi-faceted approach, including microgrids, standalone systems, and national grid expansion. Funding from international organizations like the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the European Union (EU) is expected to play a crucial role in these efforts. While the path to full electrification is complex, the government’s commitment signals a renewed hope for Belize’s rural communities.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Belize’s Flaky Favorite Meat Pies Travel Far to Feed Tradition
Belize’s beloved meat pies have transcended their humble origins to become a cultural emblem, cherished not just for their savory flavor but for the deep sense of identity they evoke. Since their introduction in the 1980s by Dario Hernandez, these golden, flaky pastries have become a breakfast staple, weaving themselves into the fabric of Belizean life. For Belizeans living abroad, the meat pie is more than a meal—it’s a nostalgic connection to home.
Paul Lopez of News Five explores the enduring legacy of this iconic dish in a recent report. Whether packed in barrels for loved ones in the U.S. or carefully frozen for journeys as far as Australia, meat pies have become a symbol of cultural continuity. Vendors like Moe’s Pizza Pasta and Dario’s Meat Pie have perfected the art of preserving these delicacies for long-distance travel, ensuring they arrive as fresh as when they left the bakery.
Brent Hernandez, son of the late Dario Hernandez, reflects on the global reach of his father’s creation. ‘It’s not just food; it’s a piece of Belize,’ he says. The meat pie’s popularity has only grown over the decades, with bakeries churning out dozens daily to meet demand. Hernandez dreams of seeing Dario’s Meat Pies in the frozen-food aisles of international grocery stores, akin to Hot Pockets or Eggo waffles. Until then, the tradition of hand-delivering these pies to far-flung destinations remains a cherished practice among the Belizean diaspora, keeping the taste of home alive across the globe.
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Doug & Myra Singh Unveil Zenses, Caye Caulker’s Newest Escape
In a celebration of serenity and sensory indulgence, Doug and Myra Singh unveiled their latest venture, Zenses, a boutique resort on the tranquil shores of Caye Caulker, Belize. The grand opening, held this past weekend, brought together friends, families, and distinguished guests to mark the culmination of the Singhs’ vision for a unique island escape. Zenses, a harmonious blend of Zen philosophy and sensory experiences, promises to elevate the island’s hospitality scene. The resort features two pools, including a family-friendly option with slides and a mushroom waterfall, alongside a swim-up bar for adults. Guests can also indulge in culinary delights at two on-site restaurants: Tequila Sunrise, an over-the-water taco and tequila bar, and Plantains, a Caribbean-inspired rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the island. Despite a challenging year for Belize’s tourism industry, stakeholders remain optimistic. Area Representative Andre Perez highlighted the region’s strategic appeal and expressed confidence in a rebound. For the Singhs, Zenses represents not just a business venture but a testament to their passion for creating unforgettable experiences. With a team of talented Belizeans, they aim to offer world-class hospitality, complementing their earlier success with Blu Zen. Zenses is poised to cater to a diverse clientele, blending luxury with the laid-back charm of Caye Caulker.
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2 Out of 3 Crash Victims in Belize Were Over the Legal Alcohol Limit
In a sobering revelation, the National Forensic Science Service (NFSS) of Belize has disclosed that two out of every three individuals involved in road traffic accidents had alcohol levels significantly exceeding the legal limit. This statistic, which includes drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians, underscores a pervasive issue in the country’s road safety landscape. The data, collected from 179 samples analyzed between January and June 2025, reveals alcohol concentrations of over 180 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood or 107 milligrams per 100 milliliters of urine in many cases. These findings highlight the critical role of alcohol impairment in fatal and non-fatal crashes across Belize.
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Permanent License Revocation for Serious Traffic Offenders?
In a bold move to address the alarming surge in fatal road accidents, Belize’s Ministry of Transport has proposed stringent amendments to the nation’s traffic laws. Chester Williams, the Ministry’s CEO, announced plans to introduce legislation that would enforce a lifetime revocation of driver’s licenses for individuals convicted of causing death while driving under the influence. Williams emphasized that current penalties, which often involve minimal fines and quick reinstatement of licenses, are insufficient to deter reckless behavior. He argued that driving is a privilege, not a right, and those who weaponize vehicles to endanger lives must face severe consequences. The proposed measures aim to create a separate legal framework to handle such cases, ensuring stricter accountability and enhancing road safety. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to protecting citizens and reducing preventable tragedies on Belize’s roads.
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Belize Delivers Aid, Supplies After Hurricane Melissa
In a significant display of regional solidarity, Belize has mobilized substantial aid to assist Jamaica and Cuba in recovering from the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The government has pledged $200,000 in financial assistance to both nations, which bore the brunt of one of the most destructive storms to traverse the Atlantic this year. The hurricane wreaked havoc, leveling homes, crippling infrastructure, and disrupting essential services, underscoring the disproportionate impact of climate change on small island nations. Beyond monetary support, Belize has dispatched relief supplies, including hygiene products, canned food, and cash aid, to its students studying in Jamaica and Cuba. Officials have emphasized their commitment to monitoring the situation and providing further assistance if required. In a public statement, Belize reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with Jamaica and Cuba, highlighting the enduring bonds of friendship, cooperation, and mutual support that unite these Caribbean neighbors.
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Belizean Journalist Wins Emmy for Coverage of U.S. School Shooting
Kaitlyne Haylock, a Belizean journalist, has achieved a significant milestone in her career by winning a Chicago/Midwest Emmy Award. The accolade was awarded to her and her former team at WMTV 15 in Madison, Wisconsin, for their exceptional coverage of a tragic school shooting that occurred on December 16, 2024. The incident, which shook the Madison community, was meticulously reported by Haylock and her colleagues, earning them the Emmy for Best Morning Show and Evening News. At the time of the shooting, Haylock was pursuing her master’s degree while working as a morning show producer, gaining both academic and professional experience. In an interview, Haylock reflected on her journey, attributing her passion for journalism to her early exposure to the field through her mother, who was a prominent journalist and news anchor in Belize. Haylock’s dedication to informing the public during the crisis, coupled with her ability to manage a high-pressure newsroom environment, highlights her commitment to the profession. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring journalists worldwide, demonstrating the impact of perseverance and a deep-rooted passion for storytelling.
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When Protecting Nature Becomes the Adventure
Belize, a country renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant reefs, has long relied on tourism as a cornerstone of its economy. However, beneath the surface of its tourist attractions lies a critical force driving its success: conservation. The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD), supported by the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future, is demonstrating that protecting the environment can also be an exhilarating adventure. This initiative is transforming the northern coastal village of Sarteneja, traditionally known for its fishing heritage, into a hub for eco-tourism. Through Corozal Bay EcoAdventures, local fishers, artisans, and families are discovering new ways to earn a living while safeguarding the marine ecosystems that sustain them. Diveana Samos, Business Manager of SACD, emphasizes that their mission is to promote conservation actions that benefit both biodiversity and the local community. The Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning 178,000 acres, is home to manatees, dolphins, and Belize’s only bull shark nursery. SACD’s RioReef Expedition blends science and tourism, channeling proceeds into local conservation and community projects. Visitors experience firsthand how traditional fishing practices and modern conservation principles converge for sustainability. The initiative also supports water quality monitoring, bird surveys, and aerial manatee surveys, ensuring the protection of one of Belize’s highest manatee populations. The eco-tour highlights the interconnectedness of the ecosystem, from the mangroves that filter impurities to the seagrass beds that clean the waters. Historical sites like the Cerros Mayan Temple add a cultural dimension, linking environmental preservation with heritage. The journey concludes at the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve, where visitors can snorkel the reef or explore Mayan ruins. SACD’s model proves that adventure and preservation can coexist, leaving a lasting message that nature, culture, and community are all part of one living story.
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U.S. Shutdown Nears End as Funding Bill Heads to House
The prolonged U.S. government shutdown, the longest in the nation’s history, is poised to conclude as early as Wednesday following the Senate’s approval of a short-term funding bill on Monday. This legislative breakthrough is expected to reinstate hundreds of thousands of federal employees to their roles, restore Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to over 42 million Americans, and mitigate significant travel disruptions that have plagued the country. Economists estimate that the shutdown has resulted in a $55 billion (0.8%) reduction in GDP for this quarter, a loss that the reopening aims to reverse. The shutdown had forced nearly 800,000 federal workers, including air traffic controllers, into unpaid leave or work without pay. While the bill funds most federal agencies until January 30, concerns linger about the potential for another shutdown early next year. Analysts caution that although backpay and resumed benefits will provide temporary relief, the underlying crisis remains unresolved. Despite the bill’s passage, the government will require several days to fully reopen, and air travel disruptions persist, with 1,148 flights canceled nationwide as of Tuesday afternoon, according to aviation analytics.
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Belize Could Soon Be Storing Sunshine… Literally
Belize is taking significant strides toward energy independence and sustainability with the introduction of large-scale battery storage systems designed to harness solar power. The Ministry of Energy, led by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Leroy Almendarez, announced plans to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night, a move expected to reduce electricity costs and decrease reliance on imported energy. Currently, Belize imports up to 50% of its power from Mexico, but this initiative aims to change that. A key component of the project is a 40-megawatt battery storage system funded by the World Bank, which will allow Belize to purchase cheaper energy during off-peak hours and distribute it during peak times, potentially lowering consumer bills. Dr. Almendarez emphasized the importance of proper maintenance for these systems, comparing them to vehicle batteries that degrade without care. Belize’s renewable energy transition is already in progress, with plans to install 135 megawatts of solar capacity and 60 megawatts of battery storage by 2031. The first batteries are expected to be operational by the end of 2026, and the ministry aims to generate 75% of the country’s energy from renewable sources by 2030. This initiative marks a critical step in Belize’s journey toward a greener and more self-sufficient energy future.