Keel-Billed Toucan by @FlorianKuster

Honorary Consul's Monthly Message

Welcome to October's Newsletter!

 As October draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the month’s most meaningful, heartwarming, and impactful stories from our beloved Jewel.

October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so we honor the brave individuals who continue to battle this disease, the survivors whose resilience embodies the best of humanity’s spirit, and the cherished memories of those we have lost. Their courage and unity continue to inspire countless others every day. At the Consulate of Belize in Florida, we keep all those affected by breast cancer in our thoughts and prayers, wishing them strength, comfort, and a full recovery.

Our hearts go out to our Caribbean brothers and sisters in Jamaica, Cuba, and The Bahamas who have been severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa. As fellow members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), we stand in solidarity with the people of Jamaica during this difficult time. We join our regional partners in offering prayers for recovery, strength, and resilience as the nation works to rebuild and heal from this devastating storm.

The recovery relief efforts are underway, and we encourage everyone who can to support ongoing relief efforts to assist those most affected. To donate to the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) 2025 Mission Hurricane Melissa Click Here

In addition, we have included helpful resources and links on hurricane preparedness and disaster readiness to remind our community of the importance of staying informed and prepared during this active season. To learn more Click Here

Today is the eve of All Saints' Day when Christians venerate the saints while others use it to honor the faithful departed. “It is part of a three - day triduum. - sometimes known as Allhallowtide-dedicated to remembering the dead, beginning with Halloween (October 31st) and followed by All Saints Day (November 1st) and All Souls’ Day (November 2nd) Britannica. May all our loved ones who have passed rest in eternal peace.

In the Jewel, we join Belizeans who are celebrating Los Finados. Los Finados is a time-honored tradition among many Mestizo families in Belize, who honor the memories of their ancestors with candles, food, and celebrations welcoming the spirits of loved ones.

Lastly, we reflect on Indigenous Peoples Resistance Day, observed on October 12th and Columbus Day in the USA. This commemoration reminds us to recognize and celebrate the enduring heritage, resilience, and invaluable contributions of all Indigenous communities especially the Garifuna people who bravely survived exile and made Belize their home.

November 19th is Garifuna Settlement Day so let us honor this day with music, food, and all the unique rich cultural traditions because their history continues to enrich our nation’s identity and strengthen our collective pride. "Buidula Hafeduhani Haweyuri Garinagu" Happy Garifuna Settlement Day!

This month also saw strides in Belize’s energy independence, new partnerships, and strategic cooperation. Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño introduced a new hydroelectric deal seeking to purchase Fortis-owned assets and BEL shares to maintain profits and lower electricity costs for families throughout the country. This initiative forms part of the broader vision outlined in “Plan Belize 2.0,” which continues to drive innovation and sustainability across the nation’s energy sector.

In addition, Prime Minister Briceño hosted the 34th Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association Conference, bringing together government officials, industry leaders, and regional experts. The discussions focused on advancing sustainable water management and building a more resilient and resource-secure Caribbean for generations to come.

The Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children carried out her own mission this month, raising awareness about Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the concerning statistics affecting women in Belize. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the country, accounting for 85 diagnosed cases and 21 deaths in 2022. The Special Envoy emphasized the importance of regular screenings and early detection, which are vital in the fight against this disease and key to ensuring longer, healthier lives for Belizean women.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Francis Fonseca, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to “the protection of people facing persecution and to upholding the enduring values and humanity of Belize.” This statement accompanied Belize’s signing of the “Safe Third Country” Agreement with the United States a significant step reflecting the nation’s dedication to humanitarian principles under the 1951 United Nations Convention on the Status of Refugees.

Under this agreement, Belize will serve as a designated country to receive certain deportees from the United States, exercising full sovereignty over admissions, including nationality limits and the implementation of robust security measures. These provisions aim to ensure that the process is carried out safely, responsibly, and in alignment with Belize’s international obligations and compassionate spirit.

Be sure to check out our “Movers and Shakers” section, where we spotlight some of the latest initiatives driving progress and innovation across Belize. This month, the Belize Tourism Board hosted the Tourism Security Summit, launching the National Security Strategy 2025–2030 to strengthen safety within the tourism sector. The Ministry of Health and Wellness advanced its commitment to education by expanding scholarship opportunities for medical students, while the Ministry of Rural Transformation deepened its partnership with the UNDP to further rural electrification efforts, among other exciting projects.

We take this opportunity to wish Belize’s incredible contestants, Miss Universe Belize, Isabella Zabaneh and Miss Earth Belize, Paris Cawich who are true Ambassadors of Belize. Miss Zabaneh has now taken her place on the stage of the Miss Universe in Thailand and is gearing up for the competition on November 21st.Miss Cawich has also arrived in the Philippines and will soon compete in the Miss Earth pageant on November 5th.Their dedication, poise and passion for Belize shine brightly, and we are confident that they will make Belize proud. May this journey be filled with cherished memories and remarkable achievements. #Belizeansarebeautiful

We also warmly welcome back the Ambassador of Belize to the United States, His Excellency Nestor Mendez who served in the same capacity before being elected as Assistant Secretary General of Belize to the Organization of American States in 2015. We wish him continued success as he embarks on this new chapter of his career.

In this special edition of Star of the Month, we’re proud to highlight Rhodel “Rhodee” Castillo, and his wife Yolanda, a husband-and-wife dynamic team who have made enormous strides in preserving and promoting Garifuna heritage leaving a lasting impact both in Belize and the United States. From their early years in Dangriga to launching Chicago’s acclaimed Garifuna Flava Restaurant, Rhodel and Yolanda’s journey embodies perseverance, creativity, and cultural pride. Through teaching, music, and community service, he and Yolanda continue to inspire generations to stay rooted in their identity while embracing the power of education and resilience. Read more about their remarkable story!

And lastly, with the upcoming celebration of Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19th, why not celebrate with one of Belize’s most cherished Garifuna’s dishes, Fish Sere reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the Garifuna community. Don’t miss the full recipe featured under Recipe of the Month.

As the cooler weather sets in, so does comfort food and we have a good one for you to try your hand at. The star of the Street Food Series, similar to a hot toddy, Sahou, is sweet, warm and flavorful, sure to keep you warm and cozy. Enjoy!

For all Belizeans facing the possibility of deportation, the Consulate of Belize continues to keep you in our prayers. We are here to help navigate you during this difficult time. If you or a family member may be at risk of detention, we strongly encourage you to consider self-deportation as an option.

Please review all the latest official information directly from the USCIS website Here. If you do not have a passport, you may apply for an Emergency Travel Document at any Belizean Consulate or at the Embassy of Belize within the United States.

Under the Housekeeping Business section, you’ll find up-to-date information on current immigration policies, recent updates, and contact details for consular offices near you. For a full list of contact information for the Embassy of Belize in Washington, DC and other Consulates, please Click Here

We invite you to explore the other sections of our newsletter, including Belizeanism of the Month, Landmark Beauty of the Month, and more. Additionally, 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 strengthen our Belizean community. It's a great time to be a Belizean!

#Belizeisbeautiful. #Belizeansarebeautiful

Warm Belizean Wishes,

National Symbols of Belize

My dear Belizeans in the United States of America:

It is a great honor for me to greet you as the Ambassador of Belize to the United States, an appointment that I assumed on August 1st, 2025, and which was formalized by the United States White House on October 17, 2025. I am profoundly grateful to the Honorable John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize, and to the Honorable Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture and Immigration, for their trust and confidence, and for honoring me with this important assignment, one that I am undertaking for the second time in my career. For my wife Elvira and I, reassuming this post feels like coming back home to reengage fully with our extended family, the Belizean community in the United States.

As all of us are aware, we are living in some complex moments, a time loaded with great challenges but also ripe with tremendous opportunities both in this country, which has become the adopted home for many of you, as well as in our own beautiful gem: Belize. More than ever, now is the time for all of us to remain connected and to support each other and our communities across the United States. The Embassy intends to lead this effort to remain ever closer with our community, to continue strengthening our Consular Services, to seek every opportunity to promote trade and investment opportunities in Belize for the Belizean community in the U.S., and to keep fortifying our Belize brand as a world-class destination for eco and adventure tourism.

Like the rest of the region, Belize is confronting the impacts of climate change and in the Central American corridor, we are facing the continued threat of organized criminal activity. To tackle these challenges, we are investing heavily in adaptation to these new climate realities and bolstering our security infrastructure. At the same time, we are working assiduously to expand our export base and taking concrete steps to attain energy security. The Government of Belize is also focused on investing in and strengthening the social sectors, enhancing our education system, our healthcare networks, and in addressing pressing social concerns such as domestic violence. As these core issues merit deep discussion, I look forward to engaging with you in a robust analysis of the challenges and opportunities.

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As we look ahead, the Embassy will strive to keep you abreast of the great investment opportunities in Belize such as the energy sector, the new port infrastructure project, the tourism industry and the agriculture sector, among others. More than an appeal to your sense of nationalism, this is an invitation for you to take a close, pragmatic and informed look at the viable business opportunities that are emerging in Belize for Belizeans. We will also be sharing with you any opportunities for getting involved, for giving back to your country if you wish to, and to use any specialized skills you may have to help construct the ideal Belizean society we all aspire to.

My dear Belizeans, I look forward to engaging with all of you, as together we look to the future with hope and as we strive to be supportive of each other while contributing to the sustainable growth of our beloved country.

With very best wishes and many blessings,

H.E Nestor Mendez.

Ambassador of Belize to the United States of America. 

Prime Minister Briceño Unveils Hydroelectric Deal to Boost Energy Independence

Prime Minister John Briceño has introduced a $110 million USD plan to acquire Fortis-owned hydroelectric assets and BEL shares, calling it a strategic move to lower electricity costs and keep profits in Belize. Funded through Treasury notes, the deal slightly increases domestic debt without foreign borrowing. Briceño also outlined future energy plans, including battery storage, LNG infrastructure, and expanded hydro capacity part of what he calls “Plan Belize 2.0.” Read More

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PM Briceño to Attend ACMF Gala in Support of Maritime Scholarships

Prime Minister John Briceño will attend the ACMF Anchor Awards Gala this November in Florida to strengthen Belize’s partnership with the foundation. He is expected to announce scholarships for 10 Belizean students in maritime fields starting next year. The initiative supports national goals in port management, logistics, and maritime governance. Read More.

Prime Minister Briceño Welcomes Delegation for Caribbean Water and Waster Water Association.

Hon. John Briceño welcomed regional leaders to the 34th Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association, an event where government officials, experts and partners from across the CARICOM Single Market and Economy to strengthen regional cooperation in water security. Belize's leadership and progress in sustainable water management positioned the nation as a pillar in shaping a more resilient Caribbean. Read More.

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Belize Opens 2025 International Partners Conference, Strengthening Global Alliances for Sustainable Growth.

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño urged stronger international cooperation on climate action, warning that Hurricane Melissa’s threat to Jamaica underscores the urgency of a green transition. Joined by Hon. Francis Fonseca, Mr. Daniel Best of the Caribbean Development Bank, Ms. Karla Gonzalez of the IDB, and H.E. Amalia Mai, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Belize’s commitment to sustainable growth and environmental resilience. Read More.

Special Envoy Urges Early Detection as Key Message for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children advocate for early detection, as it can save lives. Special Envoy Rosanna Briceño joins in honoring the fighters, the survivors, and those who have lost their battle. Read More.

Minister Fonseca Attends CARICOM Inter-Session Meeting on Regional Affairs

Hon. Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Culture, is attending the 41st Inter-Sessional Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, which will address Haiti, external trade, regional education reform, and other key issues. Read More

Belize Signs Safe Third Country Agreement With United States

Hon. Francis Fonseca Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture and Immigration and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Katharine Beamer. Under Prime Minister John Briceño’s administration, the agreement aligns with the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and ensures Belize retains full control over who is accepted, with limits on nationalities, caps, and strict security screenings. Read More

H.E. Amalia Mai Bids Farewell to Outgoing Ambassador of Guatemala



CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bid farewell to H.E. Carlos García Reyes, Ambassador of Guatemala to Belize, thanking him for his dedication to strengthening bilateral ties. Read More

Bilateral Meeting with Japan

Foreign Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca received Ambassador Ryosuke Yamakura, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Japan in Belize, during an introductory meeting. Their cordial discussion focused on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring opportunities for enhanced cooperation. Read More

Foreign Minister Fonseca Welcomes New OAS Special Representative

Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca welcomed H.E. Antonia Urrejola Noguera, the newly appointed Special Representative of the OAS Secretary General for Belize-Guatemala Affairs. He expressed confidence in her leadership, noting her distinguished service as Chile’s Foreign Minister and former President of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). Read More

Belize Bids Farewell to Cuban Ambassador Maria Caridad Balaguer Labrada

Foreign Minister Fonseca bid Farewell to Cuban Ambassador Maria Caridad Balaguer Labrada, thanking her for Strengthening Belize-Cuban Relations. Particularly in Health, Education, and Culture. Read More.

Belize and United Nations Commemorate 80 years of Global Partnership

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the United Nations Office in Belize, held a flag-raising ceremony at the BNE Flag Roundabout in Belmopan to mark the UN’s 80th Anniversary. H.E. Amalia Mai, CEO of the Ministry, joined UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Raúl Salazar, along with UN representatives and partners, to celebrate the milestone. Read More.

Belize Engages Youth in #UN80 Podcast Celebrating 80 Years of the United Nations

Foreign Minister Fonseca and Immigration hosted #UN80 Belize Podcast, uniting youth, government leaders and partners to commemorate the UN'S 80th Anniversary, Alongside with UN Resident coordinator Mr. Raul Salazar, and CEO H.E. Amalia Mai. Read More.

Belize Embassy, Mission and Consulate's

Contact Information

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

USCIS

New Rule Requiring Certain Noncitizens to Complete Alien Registration

As of April 11, 2025, USCIS has implemented a new rule requiring certain noncitizens to complete alien registration. Failure to comply can result in serious penalties—including up to $5,000 in fines or 30 days in jail, plus civil fines of up to $1,000 per day. Additionally, not updating your address within 10 days of moving may lead to deportation unless you can show it was not willful or was reasonably excusable. For full details and other key immigration updates Click Here

Alien Registration Requirement

The policy, set to take effect immediately, requires undocumented individuals aged 14 and older to register, provide fingerprints and addresses, and carry proof of registration or face fines and possible jail time.



The Department of Homeland Security emphasized strict enforcement, with Secretary Kristi Noem stating that undocumented individuals should leave the country or face consequences.

Learn More

CBP Home Mobile App

Voluntary Return Incentive:

$1,000 and Free Plane Ticket via CBP App

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently offering an incentive for individuals who choose voluntary self-departure from the United States.

Through the CBP One app, eligible individuals may receive $1,000 in assistance plus a free plane ticket to facilitate their return to their home country. or another country where they have lawful status.

This initiative is an effort to encourage voluntary compliance with immigration laws. Learn More

Key Features:

• The app allows undocumented immigrants to voluntarily notify the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of their intent to leave the U.S., potentially facilitating their return through legal channels in the future.

Tourism

Cayo Recognized Among Top 100 Global Sustainability by Green Destinations 2025

Read More

Trade & Investment

Cabinet Reviews National Preparations for Upcoming WTO trade Policy Review

Read More

Cultural

Miss Earth Belize Sets Off to represent at International Pageant in the Philippines

Read More

We proudly extend our best wishes to Miss Universe Belize 2025, Isabella Zabaneh, and Miss Earth Belize 2025, Paris Cawich, as they represent Belize on the global stage this November.

A Garifuna Journey of Perseverance and Pride 

Born and raised in the vibrant communities of Dangriga Town, Toledo District, and Hopkins Village, Belize, Rhodel “Rhodee” Castillo has always carried the rhythm of the Caribbean and the soul of his people in his heart. From a young age, he was shaped by the values of education, community, and cultural pride instilled by his family and surroundings.

After completing his studies at Stann Creek Ecumenical High School, Rhodel began his teaching career at the Anglican School in Mango Creek Village, now known as Independence. His passion for teaching and service led him to the Belize College of Arts, Science and Technology (BELCAST), where he studied Teacher Education before setting his sights on new horizons.

In 1986, Rhodel immigrated to the United States with a spirit of determination and purpose. Two years later, he earned his Bachelor of Arts from Chicago State University, followed by a master’s degree from Roosevelt University in 1994. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, Rhodel remained grounded in his heritage while building a life of service and leadership.

For more than two decades, Rhodel worked in the human services field, serving as an administrator with nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving lives. Yet, even as he advanced professionally, he never strayed from his Garifuna roots. As co-founder of the Progressive Garifuna Alliance (PGA), he helped create a platform to preserve and promote Garifuna culture worldwide. Under his leadership, the organization hosted cultural exhibits, town meetings, and Chicagoland celebrations that not only honored Garifuna heritage but also supported communities back home in Belize.

Rhodel’s creative energy extends beyond advocacy and education. He was a consultant and contributing artist for The Garifuna Journey, a documentary film directed by Andrea Leland and Kathy Berger. The film, which opens with Rhodel’s powerful poem Our Children Must Know, became a defining work in illuminating Garifuna history, debuting at Chicago’s Field Museum during its African History Series.

In 1998, Rhodel released his first musical compilation, In Exile, introducing a fresh blend of Punta Rock, Paranda, Reggae, and Dub Poetry. The album explored the humanitarian and social struggles of the Garifuna people while celebrating their spirit and resilience. Two decades later, in 2018, he followed with Wasugurun (Garifuna Struggle), a moving reflection on land rights, cultural preservation, and global inequality.

In June 2008, together with his wife Yolanda, Rhodel opened Garifuna Flava Restaurant in Chicago—a culinary tribute to their homeland, serving authentic Garifuna, Belizean, Caribbean, and Latin dishes. Despite launching during the U.S. financial recession, the couple remained committed to their vision. It took seven years for the business to become profitable, but they never lost faith.

As the only Garifuna restaurant in the Midwest, Garifuna Flava has become a cultural landmark, offering a rare cross-peek into a people who number only around 500,000 worldwide, while introducing guests to the beauty of Belize. Led by Rhodel, Yolanda, and their son Hussein, the family has brought recipes, music, and stories from Dangriga to Chicago’s South Side. Those bold flavors and meaningful experiences have earned widespread praise, repeatedly ranking among Yelp.com’s “Best Caribbean” list for 17 years. The restaurant has been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, ABC7’s Hungry Hound and Windy City LIVE, WTTW’s Check, Please, WGN’s Chicago’s Best, and even the iconic Taste of Chicago.

Among Chicago’s highest-rated Caribbean restaurants, Garifuna Flava has brought awareness of the Garifuna people, their cuisine, and heritage while serving as a home base for Belizeans and other Caribbean communities. When the restaurant first opened, most guests knew little about Belize or the Garifuna culture. Today, many have learned, connected, and even traveled to Belize because of their experience at Garifuna Flava.

Beyond the dining table, the Castillos have embraced their role as educators. They have hosted cultural and culinary programs for schools and universities across Chicago, including the University of Chicago, Northwestern, DePaul, and Northeastern Illinois University—sharing Garifuna music, cuisine, and traditions. The restaurant has also partnered with city and state agencies to serve meals to families in need and has catered for Chicago mayors, Illinois governors, corporations, and numerous community organizations.

Through the years, Garifuna Flava has welcomed distinguished guests from Belize and the global Garifuna diaspora, including Aurelio Martinez, Miriam Miranda, Dr. Luther Castillo, and musical artist Aziatic. The restaurant stands as a powerful testament to pride, perseverance, and cultural representation abroad.

In 2013, Rhodel’s remarkable contributions earned him the Making a Difference Award from the Concerned Belizean Citizen Organization for his unwavering dedication to Belizean culture and community. Yet, for him, success is not defined by recognition, but by remaining true to one’s roots and sharing them with the world.

Rhodel credits his inspiration to his late mother, a teacher who dedicated her life to preserving and teaching the Garifuna language in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Bluefields, Nicaragua. She instilled in him a deep respect for education and heritage—a legacy that continues to guide him.

Looking back, Rhodel’s life is a testament to faith, focus, and perseverance. His message to others is simple yet profound: focus on your idea and pursue it with conviction. Never lose sight of your vision, no matter how long it takes. Dreams, like cultures, thrive when nurtured with passion, patience, and pride.

To check out Garifuna Flava Click Here 

We are proud to call you our Star of the Month!

To honor the Garifuna people is to celebrate resilience, rhythm, and roots — a living legacy of strength that continues to inspire generations.

Remembering Andy Palacio  

Belize’s beloved Garifuna icon. A teacher turned musician, Palacio dedicated his life to preserving Garifuna heritage, gaining international acclaim with his 2007 album Watina, which earned him the UNESCO Artist for Peace and WOMEX awards. His legacy continues to inspire through the Garifuna Collective and all who work to keep his spirit, music, and message alive. 

The Maya Ruins of Caracol

Caracol is the largest Maya archaeological site in Belize. Around AD 650, it had a population of over 100,000 and spanned a radius of 10 km larger and more populous than modern-day Belize City. Its success was due to advanced agriculture and city planning. Caracol was also militarily powerful, defeating Tikal in AD 562 and conquering Naranjo in AD 631.

Food Weh No Killing, Fattening

Literally: Food that doesn't kill must nourishing.

Meaning: Don't be choosy about food.

Let us Preserve and Protect our Historical Landmarks!

• Governor-General Froyla Tzalam met with President Lai of Taiwan Read More
• Belize Tourism Board Hosts Tourism Security Summit to Launch National Security Strategy 2025-2030. Read More.
• Health Ministry Strengthens Support for Medical Education Through Scholarship opportunities. Read More.
• Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government Strengthens Partnership with UNDP to advance Rural Electrification through the DARE Project. Read More
• Ministry of Education and Central Bank of Belize Collaborate to Launch Financial Literacy E-Book for Schools. Read More.
• Cabinet Approves New Safety Measures Through Ministry of Transportation. Read More.
• Belize Strengthens Regional Cooperation at the Central America Travel Market 2025. Read More.
• Taiwan ICDF and Ministry of Sustainable Development Conclude Collaborative Flood Warning Capacity Project in Belize River Basin. Read More.
• Ministry of Investment and Ministry of Human Development, in Partnership with the Taiwan Technical Mission, Launch Women’s Cell Phone Repair Training in Stann Creek. Read More.
• Office of the Prime Minister and Ministry of Investment, in Collaboration with UNIDO, Conclude COMFAR Training to Strengthen Investment Project Analysis in Belize. Read More.
• Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs Announces Belize’s Endorsement of Regional Agreement on Strengthening Responses to Domestic Violence. Read More.
• Ministry of Health and Wellness Partners with PAHO/WHO to Strengthen Diabetes Care in Belize. Read More.

• Kuwait fund signs 26M agreement for Belize and Saint Lucia for major Infrastructure projects. Read More
• Belize Partners Global Credit Giant to Modernize Lending Read More
• Department of Transportation Improve Road Security with Law Enforcement. Read More.
• Belize Secures BZ$10 Million to Expand Rural Water Access. Read More.
• Cabinet Approves Allocation of Funds for the Electrification of Primary Schools in the Orange Walk District. Read More.
• MSME Tax Amnesty Extended. Read More.

• Historic Pact allowing Citizens to Live, and Freely Across Borders Read More
• Belize Strengthen Regional Partnerships to Advance the Future of Tourism. Read More
• Belize Secures Historic Seat on ICAO Council for 2025-2028 Term Read More
• Belize and Mexico Deepen Cooperation in Tourism and Sports Read More.
• Belize and Sri Lanka Establish Diplomatic Relations Read More

• Traveling to Belize is getting easier from new locations connections from the United Sates. Read More
• Belize Strengthens their Tourism Safety with National Security Summit. Read More.
• 25-Year Milestone for Resort in Service and Sustainability. Read More.
• Belize Shines at Central American Tourism Fair Read More.
• Belize Tourism Board Hosts Tourism Security Summit to Launch National Security Strategy 2025-2030. Read More.
• Belize Ranked Among Top Global Destinations in Condé Nast Traveler's 2025 Reader's choice Award. Read More
• Barefoot Services Elevates Belize on the World Stage with Prestigious Global Tourism Award. Read More.

• Belize Women Make History Winning Bronze at Central American Volleyball Championship. Read More
• Cross Country Cycled More 3,000 miles to raise money for schools in Belize Read More
• An Affordable Paradise, Belize's 10-Acre Island Delivers Luxury. Read More.
• Belizean Athletes Achieve Historic Milestone in Central American Games. Read More.
• Miss Earth Belize 2025 Wins Silver At Manila Presentation. Read More.
• Belize 2025 Birding Festival Takes Flight in Punta Gorda. Read More
• Celebrating Culinary Excellence: Placencia Restaurant Week 2025. Read More.
• Discover Your Ideal Belize Getaway at Turneffe Island Resort. Read More.
• Belize Women's National Team Scores Scores Win Ahead of CONCACAF Qualifiers. Read More.
• Belize Men's Basketball Wins Takes Home the Bronze Medal. Read More.
• Alexa Acosta Becomes the First Women to Represent Belize in the Central America Weightlifting Games. Read More.

• A New Global Partnership that could lead to a New Smart Environmental Technology and infrastructure. Read More
• Maya Salt-Making Compound found preserved underwater in Belize. Read More
• Innovative Conservation Effort Reshapes Belize’s Forest Landscapes. Read More.
• Belize Lands Multi-Million Climate Resilience Grant. Read More.
• 2025 Conch Season Now Open. Read More.
• Belize High Commitment in Protecting Coastal Habitats. Read More.
• Ministries of Economic Transformation, Finance, and Agriculture Announce Italian Grant for Sustainable Agriculture. Read More.

Fish Seré

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized snapper fillet
• 2 large green plantains (sliced)
• 1 small carrot (diced)
• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• 1 ½ cups water
• 3 leaves culantro or cilantro (fresh)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 plugs garlic (minced)
• ½ an onion, julienned
• 8 ounces cassava or yucca (sliced)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Fish

• Rinse the snapper fillet and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
• Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices. Set aside.

2. Make the Chowder

• In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, water, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, diced carrot, cubed cassava (yucca), and chopped plantain.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until vegetables start to soften.

3. Season

• Add salt and black pepper to taste, stirring to mix well.

4. Cook the Fish

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
• Gently add the snapper pieces and cook until the fish is tender and fully cooked, stirring occasionally.

5. Serve

• Serve the chowder alongside freshly cooked rice and a side of plantain strips.
• Garnish with fresh culantro or cilantro for added flavor.

Belizean Sahou

Ingredients:

• Cassava. Either 1 pound of the melon or 1/4 cup of cassava starch.
• Coconut, one
• Liquid, 2 cups. Either water or coconut milk.
• Cinnamon, 1/4 tsp
• Nutmeg, 1/4 tsp
• Vanilla, 1 tsp
• Other sweeteners like sugar, honey, or agave nectar, as you wish.

Recipe:

1. Grate cassava. Add 2-3 cups of water and then strain into a pot. You only need the strained liquid.
2. If making your own coconut milk, grate the coconut, add 2-3 cups of water, and strain into a separate container. If you are using premade coconut milk, leave it alone for now.
3. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the pot.
4. Cook over low heat, giving the mixture constant stirring.
5. Whether you made or purchased it, add your coconut milk to the pot.
6. Continue stirring the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Add any other sweeteners you prefer at this time.
8. Serve your sahou. You can either serve it hot or cold, either pouring it into a glass to be drunken or doled out into a bowl to be consumed like porridge.

September 2025, VOL. 128 Read More

August 2025, VOL 127 Read More

July 2025, VOL. 126 Read More

June 2025, VOL. 125 Read More

May 2025, VOL. 124 Read More

April 2025, VOL. 123 Read More

March 2025, VOL. 122 Read More

February 2025, VOL. 121 Read More

January 2025, VOL. 120 Read More

December 2024, VOL. 119 Read More

November 2024, VOL. 118 Read More

October 2024, VOL. 117 Read More

Belizean Diaspora in the USA

Belize Business Directory

USA Database



Here at the Consulate, we continue to work diligently in updating our database by calling members of the Belizean Diaspora and asking for their most recent contact information. This is to ensure we are able to share upcoming events, new services, and business opportunities in a timely manner. We appreciate your cooperation and support in sharing your contact information. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions.

Belizeans Doing Business with Belizeans

The Consulate's Belize Business Directory is new and improved!

The Directory's objective is to promote Belizean businesses in the US and in Belize. If you own a business or know of a Belizean who does and would like to publish it on our website, please send us an email with your contact information so that we can add it to our Belizean Business Directory.

*News Sources for this Newsletter:

LinkedIn

Individual Ministry Facebooks

MFA and PM Facebook

Associations Facebook

GOB Press Office

Breaking Belize News

Channel 7 News Belize

http://belizenews.com

https://amandala.com.bz/

https://lovefm.com/