The Central Bank of Belize has taken a significant step toward enhancing financial literacy among primary school students by launching the ‘Understanding Financial Institutions and Transactions’ eBook. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, aims to integrate financial education into the primary school curriculum across Belize. The eBook, unveiled in Belize City, is designed to make financial concepts accessible and engaging for young learners, particularly those in Standard Two and Standard Three. It features interactive activities that teach practical lessons on budgeting, the role of financial institutions, and essential financial terminology. During a live demonstration, students participated in exercises such as unscrambling words like ‘profit’ and ‘savings,’ showcasing the hands-on approach of the program. Kaylee Balan, a student at St. Martin De Porres Primary School, shared her understanding of budgeting, emphasizing its importance in managing personal finances. Teachers like Ashlee Rodriquez have been trained to implement the eBook’s lessons, equipping students with skills to navigate financial challenges as they grow older. The Central Bank’s efforts build on its 2019 Financial Inclusion Strategy, which initially reached 70% of primary students. With the eBook’s rollout, the bank aims to achieve 100% coverage, ensuring every child in Belize gains a solid financial foundation.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Belize Launches ‘One Million Trees’ Climate Initiative
Belize has officially launched its groundbreaking ‘One Million Trees’ initiative, a nationwide effort aimed at combating climate change and restoring the country’s natural ecosystems. Spearheaded by the Government of Belize in collaboration with local communities, this ambitious project seeks to plant one million trees over the next decade, focusing on areas severely impacted by the 2024 wildfire season and agro-productive zones. The initiative, also referred to as ‘Greening Belize,’ is part of the country’s updated National Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) and aligns with its broader landscape restoration strategy. Deputy Chief Forest Officer, John Pinelo, emphasized the program’s holistic approach, which integrates environmental sustainability, economic growth, and community well-being. ‘We cannot just plant trees; we must ensure that communities benefit economically and socially,’ Pinelo stated. The initiative will be managed by the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, alongside the Forest Department, with a focus on the Belize watershed, a critical ecosystem supporting nearly half of the nation’s biodiversity. By fostering community involvement and establishing native species nurseries, Belize aims to set a global example in environmental leadership and climate resilience.
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Powerful Quake Shakes Costa Rica, No Major Damage Reported
A significant seismic event rattled southern Costa Rica on the evening of October 22, 2025, as a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the region. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 31 kilometers, was centered approximately 62 kilometers south of San José. The tremors were felt across a wide area, from Quepos near the epicenter to Puerto Limón, over 140 kilometers away. Residents reported intense but brief shaking, with lights swaying and objects falling from shelves. Despite the widespread impact, authorities have confirmed no casualties or major structural damage. Emergency teams are currently assessing buildings and monitoring for potential aftershocks. Experts caution that the precise magnitude and epicenter may be revised as additional data becomes available. Costa Rica, located on the seismically active boundary between the Cocos and Caribbean tectonic plates, is no stranger to such geological activity, making it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the Western Hemisphere.
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Regional Tourism Leaders Unite in San Pedro Sula for CATM 2025
Central America is experiencing a tourism renaissance, with over 26 million visitors in 2024 generating $20 billion in revenue and supporting nearly 3 million jobs. The region’s rich culture, adventurous landscapes, and affordability have made it a global hotspot. This momentum continues at the Central America Travel Market (CATM) 2025, hosted in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. The event brings together over 150 exhibitors, international buyers, and tourism leaders to foster collaboration and promote multi-country travel. CATM 2025 highlights the region’s diversity, with countries like Belize showcasing sustainable tourism and cultural experiences, while El Salvador emphasizes safety and adventure. Guatemala has already announced its plans to host CATM 2026, promising an event rooted in tradition and natural beauty. The event underscores the importance of regional cooperation, as Vice Minister of Tourism of Honduras Reizel Vilorio noted, ‘If we work together, we can encourage tourists to stay longer.’ With visitor numbers expected to rise by 6% in 2025, Central America’s tourism industry is poised for continued growth.
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Family in Shock After San Felipe Fire Claims Four Lives
The tight-knit community of San Felipe is reeling from a tragic fire that claimed the lives of 35-year-old Angelita Magaña and her two children. The incident, allegedly caused by her estranged ex-partner, Francisco Godoy, has left family and friends in profound shock. Angelita, remembered as a devoted mother, had reportedly sought help to protect herself from Godoy but felt ignored by authorities. Her cousin, Britney Soliz, shared heartfelt memories of Angelita’s unwavering love for her children and her struggles to escape a dangerous relationship. The family is now grappling with both emotional and financial burdens, rallying community support to cover funeral expenses. Contributions can be made to Atlantic Bank account 2120046408 (Ana Briceno) or Belize Bank account 257489010220000 (Britney Shaiana Soliz). This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need for systemic action to address domestic violence and protect vulnerable families.
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‘Nurses and Pharmacists Scarce!’
Belize is grappling with a persistent shortage of nurses and pharmacists, a challenge that Health and Wellness Minister Kevin Bernard has highlighted as a pressing issue. Despite increased government support for training and retention, the country continues to lose healthcare professionals to larger nations. Bernard emphasized the critical need for nursing, stating, “Nursing is a necessity. We have been losing some of our nurses to bigger countries, so we must invest in encouraging more Belizeans to pursue this profession.” Similarly, the pharmacy sector faces a talent drain, with newly qualified pharmacists often being recruited by private entities. Bernard noted, “Pharmacy is a profession where graduates are quickly snapped up. We compete with the private sector to retain pharmacists, as every drugstore requires one.” To address this, the ministry has raised pharmacists’ salaries and plans to offer additional scholarships next year. Looking ahead, Bernard stressed the importance of strategic staffing for new healthcare facilities, including the San Pedro Hospital and the upcoming Belmopan tertiary hospital. “Training in these fields takes three to five years, so we must plan to ensure adequate staffing when these hospitals become operational,” he explained.
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Health Ministry Expands Scholarships for Medical Students
In a significant move to bolster its healthcare workforce, the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has announced the expansion of its scholarship program for medical students. The initiative, which now offers 60 scholarships, aims to support students pursuing careers in nursing, midwifery, and pharmacy. This marks a substantial increase from the 40 scholarships awarded last year. Minister Kevin Bernard emphasized the program’s importance, stating, ‘This is about investing in our people and ensuring we can train professionals in fields where Belize faces shortages.’ The Ministry of Education has contributed to 15 bachelor’s nursing scholarships, while the Ministry of Health has secured funding for 14 bachelor’s scholarships, nine practical nursing scholarships, and 20 midwifery scholarships. Additionally, the Inter-American Development Bank has funded two pharmacy scholarships. With a total value exceeding $1.1 million, the ministry plans to further increase the number of scholarships annually to address the nation’s healthcare needs.
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Who Will Replace Cansino as KHMH CEO?
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) is set to begin the search for a new Chief Executive Officer after Chandra Cansino announced she will not renew her contract. Health and Wellness Minister Kevin Bernard confirmed that the hospital’s board is actively preparing to advertise the position. ‘The board has already convened and is drafting the terms of reference for the advertisement,’ Bernard stated. He emphasized that while he does not directly engage with board matters, his ministry is committed to ensuring a swift and effective transition. The minister expressed his best wishes for Cansino’s future endeavors, acknowledging her contributions to the institution. Bernard highlighted the importance of selecting a capable leader who can collaborate effectively with the board to maintain continuity, drive improvements, and ensure the hospital’s sustainability. However, he noted that no specific timeline has been set for the recruitment process, as the board is still finalizing the details. The ministry aims to expedite the hiring process to secure a suitable replacement who can uphold KHMH’s mission and operational excellence.
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School Mourns Beloved Mother and Children Lost to Domestic Violence Tragedy
The St Michael School in San Felipe is enveloped in sorrow as the community gathers to remember Angelita Magaña, 35, and her two children, Tishan Godoy, 6, and Shadia Magaña, 17, who tragically lost their lives in a horrific act of domestic violence. The incident occurred on Monday when Angelita’s estranged ex-partner, Francisco Godoy, 35, allegedly doused them in gasoline and set them ablaze. Angelita and Tishan died that same day, while Shadia succumbed to her injuries this morning at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. Godoy, who had recently been released on bail for prior domestic violence charges, also died from his injuries.
Godoy had reportedly tracked Angelita down after his release, breaking into her home and threatening her life if she refused to reconcile. Fearing for their safety, Angelita had relocated to San Felipe Village with her common-law husband. She had sought a restraining order on Friday but was instructed to return on Monday, a day she never lived to see.
Minister of Human Development Thea Garcia-Ramirez acknowledged systemic failures in protecting women and children but stressed that societal responsibility is equally crucial. Angelita, known for her kindness and dedication, had been a beloved member of the St Michael School community for two years. She was often seen assisting children with special needs, welcoming visitors, and escorting students to the bathroom.
In her memory, the school organized a community-wide fundraiser, with support pouring in from the village council and other Catholic schools in Orange Walk. Students and teachers wore purple, the color symbolizing the fight against domestic violence, to honor Angelita and raise awareness. Principal D. Cal emphasized the need to stop domestic violence, stating, ‘We met together to send out a message… we need to stop domestic violence.’
As the community grieves, they hope Angelita’s story will inspire action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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NBB Warns of Fake Facebook Pages Targeting Customers
The National Bank of Belize (NBBL) has issued a stern warning to its customers following the discovery of counterfeit Facebook pages impersonating the bank. In an official statement released on Tuesday, NBBL clarified that these pages are entirely unauthorized and bear no affiliation with the institution. The bank has promptly reported the matter to the relevant authorities and is actively pursuing the removal of these fraudulent accounts. Customers are strongly advised against sharing any personal or financial information with these pages and to meticulously verify the authenticity of any suspicious messages. NBBL emphasized that all official communications are exclusively disseminated through its verified platforms. Individuals who believe they may have interacted with a fake account are urged to contact the bank immediately via email at services@nbbl.bz or by calling 822-0957 / 822-0950.