March 2025 Vol. 122

The Consulate of Belize in Florida

Monthly Newsletter

Photo Provided by Maya Culture-Belize

Honorary Consul's Monthly Message


Welcome to the March Newsletter!


“March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” - Famous saying to describe the sometimes-stark difference in March’s weather from stormy and harsh to mild.


Wherever you are we hope that you are enjoying the fresh bloom of flowers and the return of green in trees. In Belize there are signs of good things to come with the promise of mango season, and flowering trees that showcase the beauty of the country’s flora and fauna.


Folks are eagerly planning their Easter holidays, preparing to take off to the cayes or to the country. The Jewel is filled with beautiful and pristine places to spend Easter so just pick your spot!


Millions of Christians too are preparing for Easter observing the period of lent that started on Ash Wednesday, March 5th, marking the 40-day journey of fasting when we make every attempt to give up habits or shortcomings that prevent us from getting closer to God. Combined with prayer, we can receive the grace and the strength to leave the old ways behind and start new.


Indeed, new and exciting things abound! Belize ushered in a new administration who enjoyed another massive victory in the general elections held on March 12th reelecting the Peoples United Party with over 60% of the popular vote.



The Consulate of Belize in Florida takes this opportunity to congratulate Prime Minister the Honorable John Briceño for his wisdom and leadership! We wish him and his administration another successful term!


Belize also celebrated International Women's Day on March 8th, we honored the outstanding achievements of women and reaffirmed our commitment to advancing gender equality and empowerment. The timing is apt with the appointment of two women in the cabinet, the Honorable Dolores Garcia, Senior Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister and a newcomer, Ms. Thea Ramirez-Garcia, who had a decisive win in her division is now the Minister of Human Development, Family Support & Gender Affairs.


The Prime Minister also appointed Ms. Brittney Galvez as a Senator, a young and promising young lady, the voice of the youth, representing the hope and future of Belize. The opposition also made history with the first woman to be the new leader. Mrs. Tracy Taegar Panton won her seat and secured the leadership of her party.


It is indeed an exciting time for the nation, as strong leadership and steady dedication pave the way for Belize to flourish and make its mark on the global stage.


Did you know that Belizeans are happy people? Don’t take my word for it, its official! Belize proudly marked World Happiness Day, ranking #25 in the World Happiness Report! Why are Belizeans happy people? I believe that it has to do with Belizeans being positive, looking at the glass half full, and who can laugh during the best and worst of times. Belizeans have no time or room for gloom and doom!


Speaking of happiness, Belizean food may be another good reason why Belizeans enjoy life so much. Therefore, we chose a traditional Mayan dish, Poc Chuc, in honor of Maya Day to pay tribute to the Maya of Belize, the very first inhabitants of the Jewel who inhabited these lands over 3,000 years ago.


This traditional dish, popular in the Yucatán region, features citrus-marinated grilled pork, served with rice, refried beans, pickled onions, and avocado—a delicious explosion of flavors. Be sure to check out our Recipe of the Month to learn how to make this tasty dish!


And after a long period of fasting let’s reward ourselves and celebrate Easter with homemade Hot Cross Buns a favorite at Easter.

Imagine your home filled with the delicious aroma of these sweet, buns made with its signature spices and raisins, billowy and chewy. Enjoy them right out of the oven with a hot mug of Milo, coffee or tea! A good slather of Wood Dunn creamery butter won’t hurt. Comfort food at its best!


This month, Prime Minister John Briceño remained steadfast in his commitment to progress and service to the people of Belize. Following his swearing-in for a second term, he reaffirmed his dedication to the nation’s development, vowing to lead with integrity and compassion. His leadership was showcased in his cabinet appointments, selecting ministers who will work toward the best interests of the country.


The Prime Minister also expressed his strong support for early childhood development, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping Belize's future. In addition, he prioritized the safety of healthcare workers by delivering 14,000 units of PPE to the Northern Regional Hospital. Throughout the month, Prime Minister Briceño's dedication to advancing Belize was evident in every action he took.


Throughout the month, H.E. Mrs. Rossana Briceño, Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, remained deeply engaged in empowering women across Belize. She celebrated the theme "Accelerating Action: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment for All Women and Girls" by presenting the Outstanding Women’s Award to Dr. Elma Kay and Mrs. Cynthia Williams for their impactful leadership.


Mrs. Briceño also visited the Kolbe Foundation to uplift women inmates with hope and inspiration. Additionally, she hosted the “Tote-ally Empowered” creative session, helping participants unlock their strength through art. Her dedication to empowering women and fostering unity was evident in every initiative she led.

 

To kick off Women's Month, on March 1st, 2025, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children hosted the Pink Soirée, a fundraiser benefiting the Orange Walk Cancer Support Group. The event raised an impressive $60,000 Belize dollars in donations, which will directly support the group's ongoing efforts to assist individuals and families affected by cancer.


The Pink Soirée included a distinguished group from all parts of the country who supported the cause. The event featured live music, delicious cuisine, exciting raffles, and a silent auction. It was a night of glamour, community, and heartfelt generosity, ensuring that the Orange Walk Cancer Support Group can continue to support this worthy cause.

 

The Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture and Immigration has since been actively engaged in strengthening Belize’s international relations and foreign trade policies while continuing in fostering and promoting Belize’s unique culture. At the same time, Minister Fonseca is providing leadership in the extremely sensitive and important area of immigration.


 Hon. Marconi Leal, Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing and CEO Amalia Mai held a strategic meeting with the Directorate General for Foreign Trade to review Belize’s trade priorities and assess global trade policy developments, ensuring Belize’s growth through stronger international partnerships and private sector-led export growth.


The day after the general elections the “GOB Movers and Shakers” got started on the work of the nation. The Ministry of Human Development signed an MOU to address human trafficking and exploitation. The Ministry of Health and Wellness launched the Belize Health Sector Strategic Plan to improve healthcare delivery.


The Hon. Florencio Marin Jr. and his team met with Galen University to discuss a Good Governance Training Initiative. Additionally, Minister Martinez and CEO Pol of the Ministry of Economic Transformation held discussions with the Director General of the Statistical Institute of Belize to improve data collection and accessibility, supporting the country’s economic goals.


Make sure to check out this edition’s Star of the Month, Paulita Bennett-Martin! A passionate ocean conservation advocate, Paulita has dedicated over 12 years to protecting our oceans and empowering communities to get involved in conservation. Don’t miss her inspiring journey of commitment, leadership, and love for the sea, as she continues to drive positive change for the future of our oceans!

Additionally, we have many interesting stories and other sections, including Belizeanism of the Month and Landmark Beauty of the Month, etc., that we hope you won’t miss!


As new immigration policies are put in place in the United States, many Belizeans will be affected. Know that you are not alone. All the consular offices that represent Belize in the United States are there to assist you during this challenging time. For a list of all the Consulates and the Embassy of Belize in DC, please Click Here for our contact information. Read about this and other important immigration and consular information under “Housekeeping Business”.


We encourage Belizeans to register with the Consulate and join the Belize Business Directory to stay connected and promote Belizean businesses. Forward this newsletter to family and friends to continue building ties with the Belizean diaspora community. It's a great time to be a Belizean!


#Belizeisbeautiful. #Belizeansarebeautiful


Warm Belizean Wishes,

Janine Sylvestre

Hon. Consul of Belize in Florida 

Trade Representative of Belize in Florida

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National Symbols of Belize

Historic - Belize General Elections Shatter Records


The March 12, 2025, general elections in Belize were historic. Prime Minister John Briceño's PUP won 26 seats, securing a second consecutive victory and a supermajority. Tracy Panton made history as the first female Leader of the Opposition, while political newcomer Devin Daly defeated former Area Representative Patrick Faber. For the first time, candidates from two Democratic Parties contested the PUP, reshaping Belize's political landscape. Read More

Prime Minister Announces Appointment of Six Government Senators


Six senators have been appointed to the Government: Mr. Eamon Courtenay, SC, Mr. Christopher Coye, Mr. Linsford Castillo, Ms. Rozel Arana, Ms. Brittney Galvez, and Mr. Hector Guerra. Hon. Courtenay will serve as Leader of Government Business, drawing on his extensive legal and political experience. The appointments blend seasoned expertise, particularly in finance, with new perspectives, ensuring a dynamic approach to governance. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the inaugural Senate sitting, with the date to be confirmed. Read More

Empowering Our Future: Prime Minister's Commitment to Early Childhood Development


The Prime Minister has emphasized the importance of early childhood development and the role it plays in shaping a stronger, more prosperous Belize. With the theme 'Small Steps, Big Skills: Unlocking Early Potential,' we recognize the vital role of our youngest citizens in driving the growth of our nation." Read More

Prime Minister’s Swearing-In Ceremony

The Prime Minister of Belize was officially sworn in for his second term during a ceremony attended by key government officials and supporters. As he took the oath of office, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Belize with dedication and integrity. Looking ahead, he expressed his determination to continue driving progress and tackling the challenges of the nation. Read More

Prime Minister and Minister of Health deliver 14,000 units of PPE to Northern Regional Hospital


During the visit, they announced the delivery of 14,000 units of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to bolster the hospital’s preparedness and safety measures. This donation aims to ensure healthcare workers are properly equipped to continue providing care while safeguarding their health amidst ongoing public health challenges.

Read More

Prime Minister Pays Respect to Father of the Nation 


After paying his respects to the Father of the Nation, Hon. John Briceño retook the oath of office as Prime Minister of Belize. The Belizean electorate returned PM Briceño and 25 other representatives from the People’s United Party to office for a second consecutive term in government. Read More

The Office of the Prime Minister Announces Cabinet Appointments


The work to advance Belize continues with Prime Minister Briceño’s newly appointed Cabinet, committed to delivering on promises with integrity, dedication, and hard work. The Office of the Prime Minister has announced the latest Cabinet appointments.  Read More

The Office of the Special Envoy Hosts Pink Soirée: Cancer Fundraiser Raises $60,000 for Orange Walk Cancer Support Group


On March 1st, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children hosted a glamorous Pink Soirée that brought together friends and family for an evening of elegance and purpose. The event featured live music, delicious cuisine, signature cocktails, exciting raffles, and a silent auction. Proceeds were dedicated to the Orange Walk Cancer Support Group, providing vital assistance and resources to those affected by cancer. It was a night of awareness, generosity, and unity in the fight against cancer.

The Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children Donates $30,000 to Assist with CT Scans for Cervical Cancer Treatment


On March 28, 2025, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children donated $30,000 to the Belize Cancer Society to assist women in need of CT scans for cervical cancer treatment. This funding will support women in accessing essential diagnostic services, with Dr. Ramoncito Yacab, Oncologist at KHMH, working alongside the Belize Cancer Society to ensure proper referrals. Read More

Outstanding Women’s Award 2025

The Special Envoy, Mrs. Rossana Briceno, celebrates the women shaping Belize’s future. Under the theme "Accelerating Action: Rights, Equality, Empowerment for All Women and Girls," we honor the progress made and the work ahead. It was an honor to present awards to Dr. Elma Kay for her environmental advocacy and Mrs. Cynthia Williams for her dedication to women’s human rights. Their leadership inspires change in Belize. Read More

Women’s Month: Empowering Women with Hope


This Women’s Month, H.E. Mrs. Rossana Briceño visited the Kolbe Foundation, Belize Central Prison, to spend a meaningful morning with the women inmates. Through testimonies, music, and prayers, the gathering reminded them that hope and second chances are always within reach. Read More

The Office of the Special Envoy and Orange Walk Central UWG Hosted a Tote-ally Empowered Session

A collaborative creative painting session designed to heal, uplift, and inspire. Through art and self-expression, participants were able to uncover strength and experienced renewal. Read More

Celebrating Women’s Month: Empowerment and Unity

March was Women’s Month, and Special Envoy Rossana Briceno encouraged us to embrace the theme: “Accelerating Action: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment for All Women and Girls.” She stated, “True strength comes from lifting each other up. Every woman’s success, big or small, should inspire us all. Let’s celebrate, not compete, for every win is a victory for all.” Read More

Inaugural Let's Talk Menopause Forum Promotes Awareness and Support

Collaboration between the Office of the Special Envoy, the Ministry of Health & Wellness, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade made the Forum possible. The event featured a panel of experts, including a gynecologist, nutritionist, and psychologist. The Forum provided valuable discussions on menopause, its symptoms, and management strategies, and emphasized the importance of supporting women in the workforce. Read More


Referral Protocol for Women Diagnosed with Cervical Cancer via Dr. Yacab at KHMH


The Referral Protocol for Women Diagnosed with Cervical Cancer, led by Dr. Yacab at KHMH, ensures timely and coordinated care for patients. This protocol provides a clear pathway for referral and treatment, aiming to improve outcomes and support women throughout their journey with cervical cancer. Read More


H.E. Rossana Briceño Gave a Presentation and Remarks to Students at All Saints Anglican Primary School in Belize City


Mrs. Briceño, Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Friends, visited All Saints Anglican Primary School in Belize City. She engaged with students on youth empowerment, stressing the importance of education, resilience, and overcoming challenges. She also discussed the impact of social media and the importance of responsible online behavior. Read More

Hon. Francis Fonseca Officially Sworn in as Belize's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration


Hon. Francis Fonseca was officially sworn in as Belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration by H.E. Dame Froyla Tzalam, Governor-General of Belize. As he takes on the vital role of advancing Belize's foreign policy, trade relations, and cultural initiatives, Hon. Fonseca’s appointment underscores the continued dedication to strengthening Belize’s position on the international stage. Learn More


Meeting with U.S. Chargé d'Affaires David Hodge to Strengthen Bilateral Ties


Foreign Minister Fonseca and CEO Amalia Mai met with Mr. David Hodge, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, to discuss key matters of mutual interest. The meeting served to reaffirm Belize’s commitment to strengthening ties with the United States under the new U.S. administration. Both parties engaged in productive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and partnership on shared priorities. Read More

Minister Marconi Leal and CEO Amalia Mai Review Belize’s Trade Agenda and Global Policies


Minister Marconi Leal and CEO Amalia Mai held a strategic session with the Directorate General for Foreign Trade to review Belize’s trade priorities and assess new global trade policies. The discussions focused on advancing Belize’s trade agenda, strengthening international partnerships, and exploring ways to support private sector-led export growth. Read More

Belize Hosts CSME National Border Control Officers Attachment Programme

On March 31, 2025, Belize hosted the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) National Border Control Officers Attachment Programme. The event, led by Ambassador Amalia Mai, aimed to enhance border officers' skills in trade, security, and regional cooperation. Key speakers, including Minister Hon. Marconi Leal Jr. and Mr. Andy Sutherland, emphasized the vital role of border officials in driving economic growth and ensuring free movement within CARICOM. Belize is the first country to host this initiative, which will be replicated across other CARICOM states in the coming weeks. Read More

Belize and Uruguay Strengthen Regional Collaboration at OAS Special General Assembly


On the sidelines of the OAS Special General Assembly, H.E. Amalia Mai, CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration (MFAFT), and H.E. Lynn Young, Ambassador of Belize to the United States, met with Hon. Mario Lubetkin, the incoming Foreign Minister of Uruguay. During the meeting, both parties discussed opportunities for strengthening collaboration and enhancing ties between Belize and Uruguay, furthering cooperation between the two regions. Read More

Belizean Foreign Service Officer Receives Prestigious President of the General Assembly Fellowship at UN Headquarters


The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is proud to congratulate Foreign Service Officer, Seidi Quetzal, the first Belizean recipient of the President of the General Assembly Fellowship at the UN Headquarters, NY. We thank H.E., Philemon Yang, President of the UN General Assembly for his commitment to investing in the development of young people, underscoring the importance of the Pact for the Future. Read More

Belize and Colombia Discuss Shared Interests at 56th OAS Special General Assembly


H.E. Amalia Mai, CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration of Belize, and H.E. Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, Deputy Minister of Multilateral Affairs of Colombia, met on the sidelines of the 56th Special OAS General Assembly. During their brief discussion, they reaffirmed the shared Latin American and Caribbean interests between both nations and committed to continuing mutual support. Read More

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Welcomes Mr. Shehryar Sarwar from the High Commission of Canada for Development Cooperation Talks


The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted Mr. Shehryar Sarwar, Director of Development Cooperation at the High Commission of Canada in Kingston, Jamaica. During his visit, Mr. Sarwar met with technical officials from the Government of Belize, alongside UN agencies and other development partners. This meeting provided a platform for discussions, further strengthening Canada’s role as a generous and reliable bilateral partner. Canada’s ongoing support continues to play a key role in advancing Belize’s Medium-Term Development Strategy. Read More

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Register with us as a Belizean in Florida and keep up to date on all news and events happening in Florida and Belize!



The information you provide is strictly confidential and used for database purposes only. 


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CBP Home Mobile Application

CBP Home is a mobile application that grants you access to a variety of services provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including:

 

Intent to Depart

  • Aliens can now notify the U.S. Government of their intent to depart the United States.


Check Border Wait Times

  • Use the app to check estimated wait times and open lane status 24/7 at land ports of entry.

Apply for a Provisional I-94 Entry

  • The I-94 Entry feature allows travelers to apply for a provisional I-94 prior to arriving at a land border crossing. Travelers who apply for their I-94 ahead of time will experience faster processing times to expedite entry. Travelers can also quickly access their current I-94 submission to view critical information such as, how long they can remain in the U.S., and use it for proof of visitor status once in the United States.


Request an Inspection of Agriculture or Biological Products

  • If you are a traveler arriving at an airport of entry, you can request an inspection of biological materials, cleaning and disinfection of shoes worn on a farm or near livestock, or food items (e.g. fresh fruits and vegetables, meats), live animals (pets, service animals, emotional support animals), or hunting trophies.


Submit a Travelers Manifest for Bus Operators

  • Create and submit an advance traveler manifest in compliance with the advance passenger information systems requirements.


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The Consulate of Belize in Florida joins the world in mourning the loss of the legendary Garifuna artist, Aurelio Martinez's passing on Monday, March 17th. His work on preserving and promoting Garifuna culture will forever continue to live through his music and accomplishments.


The Consulate of Belize in Florida expresses its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and to the people of Honduras, as well as to all the Garifuna people across the region

Live Songs

The Maya, Belize's first inhabitants, left a lasting legacy in art, science, and mathematics. While much was lost during the Spanish conquest, their history survives in stone inscriptions and ruins, that can be seen today in stelae and the remains of elaborate cities, buildings and temples that survived centuries of jungle encroachment. Archaeologists and linguists continue to unravel the ancient riddles of Maya Civilization, and we now have a better picture of this intricate, enigmatic Civilization.


The Maya civilization, which began around 2600 BC, thrived in Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Mexico, excelling in agriculture, astronomy, and writing, and developing the concept of zero. Today, Maya in Belize, making up 11% of the population, preserve their traditions through agriculture, arts, and eco-tourism, while continuing to seek cultural recognition and progress.


Maya studies remain an exciting and evolving field, with new theories emerging and old ones being challenged. To explore a more detailed and in-depth version, feel free to click the link below!

Read More

Please see the links below for this month's updates on Maya Culture!

  • BBC documents Belize’s Maya mystery Read More


  • La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge 2025 Read More




  • The Little Prince in Mopan Maya: Promoting Language and Heritage in Belize Read More

Tourism

Belize Featured as Top Budget Friendly Backpacking Destination

Read More

Trade & Investment

Buy Belizean Expo

Read More

Cultural

Martsam Travel: Connecting Travelers to Mayan Culture

Read More

My name is Paulita Bennett-Martin, and I am an ocean conservation practitioner, Executive Director, and co-founder of Sea of Life. I am also a proud Belizean American, with deep roots in Belize City and South Florida and a lifelong love for the ocean. My 12+ years of experience in research and policy for international organizations, government agencies, and decision-makers have equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges facing our oceans and the perspective and knowledge to solve some of these issues. 


Sea of Life was born out of my professional experiences in ocean conservation and my deep love for Belize. Our co-founder, Natalie Mioulis-Maillis, and I share a passion for empowering communities to connect with and protect the ocean in ways that fit into their daily lives. Since Natalie's family is also from the Bahamas, we also share a cultural background of being Caribbean-American women. We aim to take ocean conservation beyond the traditional approaches and integrate it into everyday life, making it relevant to everyone. We want to take ocean conservation beyond the labs and the boat expeditions; and connect it with everyday people and everyday life. For instance, how does what we do in our workplace or in our schools impact the beautiful sea around us and how can we make a difference even in these spaces? Sea of Life's mission is to empower and strengthen communities to protect the ocean.


My passion for ocean conservation stems from my roots and my profound connection to the Belizean sea. No matter if I was in Belize or Florida, the sea has always been by my side. So, it's easy to know what I am supposed to do, that's protect the sea. My studies in marine geosciences and international development solidified my belief that community-based conservation is crucial for achieving lasting change. The intersection of environmental protection and sustainable economic development is where I find my work most exciting and impactful. 

One example of our positive impact is the Refillable Reef Safe Campuses project. Belize is notorious for high rates of single-use plastic pollution. Together with an amazing student from Corozal, Marvin Briceno, we came up with a model for bringing economic value and environmental protections through refillable water stations on school campuses. By implementing refillable water bottle systems on school campuses, we've helped families save money, raise funds, and collectively prevented hundreds of thousands of single-use plastics from polluting the sea. We aim to expand this initiative, eliminating 1 million single-use plastic bottles and shilling water pouches annually from school campuses by 2028.

One of the biggest challenges is promoting sustainable thinking in a "rush culture" where disposable products are prevalent. There's just so much take-out food and disposable products and many people I speak to feel overwhelmed by it. Sea of Life strives to empower individuals to overcome this challenge and become agents of positive change. 

Community is at the heart of my work. We believe that lasting change starts at the grassroots level, and we actively engage with communities to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for ocean conservation.


A key lesson I've learned is the importance of seeking diverse perspectives. Embracing different viewpoints and recognizing shared goals, even if expressed differently, has been invaluable. 

My advice to fellow Belizeans is to stay focused on your goals while never losing sight of your vision and dreams. Goals are steppingstones, but your vision is the legacy you create and it's also what inspires others to be part of the change you want to see.


We have an ambitious year ahead, with plans for numerous cleanup waste audits, expanding the Refillable Reef Safe Campus initiative, welcoming a new cohort to the Plastic Solutions Academy, and hosting an international summit in Belize City. Our overarching goal is to prevent plastic pollution and empower local and international communities to become ocean conservationists.


We welcome connections with Belizeans worldwide who share our passion and want to support Sea of Life's mission. Please visit our website or follow us on Instagram to learn more. We are an incredible diaspora of people with a gift of being connected to the most beautiful place on earth. 

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San Antonio Waterfalls, Toledo


This hidden gem offers visitors a chance to explore a serene and picturesque natural setting, complete with lush jungle surroundings and clear, cascading waterfalls. It's a great spot for eco-tourism, hiking, and photography, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Belize’s natural landscapes.

Let us Preserve and Protect our Historical Landmarks!

Day brok one one



Literally: The days break one by one.


Meaning: Time slowly changes all things.


  • Hon. Christopher Coye Reappointed as Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Read More


  • Ministry of Human Development Signs MOU to Address Human Trafficking and Exploitation Read More


  • The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) Announces Official Launch of the Belize Health Sector Strategic Plan Read More


  • Hon. Florencio Marin Jr. and Team Meet with Galen University to Discuss Good Governance Training Initiative Read More


  • Ministry of Economic Transformation met with Director General of the Statistical Institute of Belize to Support Belize’s Economic Goals Read More


  • Belize Launches Enabling Initiative to Strengthen Statistical Institute with US$2.7 Million Investment in partnership with the Korean International Cooperation Agency and the United Nations Development Program Read More


  • The Ministry of Health and Wellness Receives Donation of Medical Equipment for Cancer Care Read More


  • The Elections and Boundaries Department has Released the Official Tally of Votes Cast During the 2025 General Elections Read More


  • Opposition Leader Appoints Three New Senators to Strengthen UDP's Role in Belize's Senate Read More


  • Taiwan Praises Belize's ‘Peaceful and Smooth’ General Election Read More


  • The Organization of American States Praised Belize for Conducting a Peaceful and Fair Election Read More


  • The Caribbean Democrat Union (CDU) has Extended its Congratulations to Tracy Panton on her Historic Appointment as Belize’s First Female Leader of the Opposition Read More


  • Briceño Administration Unveils New C.E.O Appointments Read More
  • Indian Delegation Explores Fruit Processing Opportunities in Belize Read More


  • BELTRAIDE and JICA Discuss Belize’s Strategic Plans for Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan Read More


  • Strengthening Sister City Ties: Belize City Delegation Visits Kaohsiung at 2025 Smart City Summit in Taiwan Read More


  • Belize Partners with IFC to Develop Solar Energy Project Read More
  • Empowering the Next Generation: Girls4Tech 2025  Read More


  • Belize National Festival of the Arts Launches with Preschool Division Opening Show Read More


  • Partial Solar Eclipse on March 29 Read More


  • Belize Coast Guard Women Honour Legacy and Inspire Future Leaders Read More


  • Belize Nature Conservation Fund Grant Program Awards BZ$50,000 to Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and SACD for Conservation Efforts Read More


  • TRAVEL + LEISURE Features Belize's Great Blue Hole as a Once-In-A-Lifetime Destination for Diver Read More

  • BBC Feature Shines Light on Belize Cave Where Maya Made Final Pleas Read More


  • Belize Featured in the Spring 2025 Magazine Issue of VUA Atlanta, see pages 62 to 67 Read More



  • Adam Flowers: Shaping Belize's History, Origins, and Legacy Read More


  • Chocolate Festival of Belize Is Back! Save the Date: May 16-18 Read More


  • Belize National Festival of the Arts Launches with Preschool Division Opening Show Read More
  • Belize Climbs to 25th in World Happiness Report, Ranking High on Freedom and Social Support Read More


  • Belizean Raymond Gillett Graduates as Royal Marine, Wins Top Marksmanship Award Read More


  • Derrick Chavarria wins 100-Mile 44th Annual Westrac Belmopan Cycling Classic Read More


  • Three-Peat Triumph: ‘Slim and Trim like Guava Limb’ Wins Third Consecutive Belikin La Ruta Maya Title Read More




  • Belize Real Estate Boom: Keller Williams Belize Launches Exclusive Luxury Vacation Homes Amid Tourism Surge Read More


  • FIN Tequila Blanco Launches in Belize Read More


  • Save the Date for BTB's Digital Marketing Summit at Belize City Civic Center on May 9, 2025 Read More


  • Mayor Pablo Cawich and Belmopan Delegation Explore Innovation and Emergency Response with AI at 2025 Smart City Summit Read More
  • Japan International Cooperation Agency Celebrate 25th Anniversary of Establishment in Belize Read More


  • St. Ignatius High School Forges Groundbreaking Collaboration with Mexican University Read More


  • University of Belize Partners with University of Venda and Central University of Technology for Collaborative Research Read More



  • U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio Congratulates Prime Minister John Briceño on Re-election Read More





  • How Women in Belize are Harnessing the Power of Nature to Conserve their community Read More


  • BELTRAIDE Partners with IICA on a Major Sustainable Livelihood Project Read More


  • Caribbean Reef Sharks Make a Comeback in Belize with the Help of Shark Fishers Read More



  • Belize Strengthens Climate Finance Partnership with Green Climate Fund to Advance Resilience and Sustainability Read More



Poc Chuc, Mayan Grilled Pork

Ingredients:

Marinade

  • 3 pounds pork loin
  • 1 head garlic
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 cup sour orange juice 

Onions

  • 2 pounds red onions, peeled and quartered
  • 1/4 cup sour orange juice 
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground clove

Mayan Pico de Gallo

  • 4 plum tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup sour orange juice 
  • salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano 
  • 2 red onions, diced
  • 1 to 2 habaneros, minced
  • 1 cup chopped cilantro

Preparation (Filling):

Marinade

  • If you are brining the pork, submerge it in a mixture of 1/4 cup kosher salt to 1 quart water, then let it sit in the fridge overnight. When you are ready to marinate it, slice the loin into medallions. Put a medallion into a heavy freezer bag and pound it flat with a mallet or empty wine bottle. You want the cutlets about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Blend the marinade ingredients and coat the pork cutlets with it, in a bag or covered container. Let this sit overnight.

Onions

  • Get your grill hot and clean the grates. Char the quartered red onions well. You want significant blackening. Take them off when they're ready and cut into slices you'd like to eat on a tortilla.
  • Mix the remaining onion ingredients together in a bowl and toss with the charred, sliced red onions.
  • Please click on the link for the remaining steps
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Belizean Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients:


  • 2 tablespoons instant dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon white cane sugar
  • 1/2 stick butter, softened
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar, white or brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk, heated until very hot (evaporated milk or coconut milk can be used)
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 4 to 4 1/2 cups bread flour
  • 1 cup raisins and 1/4 mixed peel, soaked in hot water or Caribbean rum


Icing Ingredients:

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla

Recipe:


1. Mix yeast, lukewarm water, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes to bubble up.


2. In a big bowl, combine butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Add warm milk and let it cool. Then, mix in the yeast and eggs. Slowly add 3 1/2 to 4 cups of flour until the dough is soft. Stir in raisins and mixed peel.


3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s smooth and stretchy. If it’s too sticky, add more flour.


4. Lightly butter the dough, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 1/2 hours or until it’s doubled in size.


6. Please click the link below to continue the next steps!

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