标签： Belize

A groundbreaking tourism and housing initiative near Sarteneja Village in Corozal has received official approval from Belize’s Department of the Environment. The project, spearheaded by Sarteneja South Winds Limited, will proceed under stringent environmental and social safeguards to preserve the region’s natural resources and cultural heritage. While only Phase 1 has been greenlit, subsequent phases will require additional approvals contingent on the developers’ adherence to established regulations.

Sarteneja South Winds Limited, a Belizean-registered company established in 2012, is backed by international investors and remains in good legal standing. The development is primarily targeted at foreign retirees and investors but will also offer benefits to local residents.

To ensure sustainability, the project mandates the use of a deep aquifer for water supply, separate from the community’s source, to prevent shortages. Additionally, a solar farm will be constructed in Phase 2 to alleviate strain on the national power grid. Certain ecologically sensitive areas, such as the third canal near Cayo Falso, will remain untouched and designated as private nature reserves. Traditional fishing spots will also be preserved for community use.

Environmental protection measures include a ban on septic tanks for homes, archaeological monitoring during construction, and a performance bond to ensure compliance with the project’s guidelines. This development aims to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and community well-being.

The devastating deaths of 35-year-old Angelita Magaña and her six-year-old son, Tishan Godoy, in a suspected arson attack have reignited urgent calls to address gender-based violence in Belize. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately set by Magaña’s ex-partner, Francisco Godoy, who had recently been released from prison after serving time for domestic violence against her. Magaña had sought a restraining order just days before the incident but was unable to secure one due to timing constraints, according to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith.

The Ministry of Human Development, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, and the National Women’s Commission issued a joint statement condemning the act as “an appalling case of femicide.” The agencies expressed profound sorrow and outrage, emphasizing that the tragedy underscores the persistent and devastating impact of gender-based violence in the country.

In their statement, the government partners called for a collective national response to end violence against women and children, urging communities to foster a culture of zero tolerance. They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening protection systems and reminded the public that help is available for those in need. “Every woman and child deserves to live in safety, dignity, and peace,” the statement declared.

This incident has highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes and greater community involvement to combat domestic violence and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals.

A devastating arson attack in San Felipe Village, Orange Walk, has left a community in mourning after a mother and her young son perished in a house fire early Monday morning. Thirty-five-year-old Angelita Magaña and her six-year-old son, Tishan Godoy, were among four individuals asleep in the home when the blaze erupted. Angelita’s daughter and her common-law husband, Miguel Novelo, narrowly escaped, but Angelita and Tishan tragically did not survive. Authorities have identified the prime suspect as Angelita’s former common-law husband, Francisco Godoy, who was found injured at the scene and is now in police custody. Godoy had recently been released from custody after serving time for domestic violence charges against Angelita. Neighbors recounted the harrowing moments as flames engulfed the home, with one individual, Leon, hailed as a hero for saving Angelita’s daughter. The Ministry of Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management has extended condolences to the family, while the community rallies to support funeral expenses and medical care for the injured daughter. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.