$2 Million to Boost National Sports Development

Belize’s sports sector is set to receive a major boost following a $2 million commitment from Belize Government Lotteries Limited (BGLL), with the first $1 million tranche officially handed over this week. The funding is earmarked to strengthen sports programs, upgrade facilities, and support national federations and associations.

Minister of Sports Anthony Mahler described it as a significant step forward for the ministry’s long-term plans.

“This is a commitment from the Prime Minister, from the CEO and from Fi Wi Boledo and so this will go a long way in terms of getting the programs for sports going, getting some of the facilities going, and we have a long way to go from where we want to be,” Mahler said.

Mahler explained that the ministry is currently working on a comprehensive sports strategy, an updated sports policy, and the modernization of legislation governing the sector. The funds, he noted, will support both infrastructure and grassroots development.

Managing Director of Belize Government Lotteries Limited, Janel Espat, said the contribution aligns with the company’s mandate to fund social initiatives across the country. “The Belize Government Lotteries work to develop social programs in Belize, and so we are already working with the NHI and we’re contributing to the NHI providing funding for the expansion. And now our board of directors recently approved $2 million for the improvement in sports. So today we handed over the first $1 million and by the end of March we’ll be handing over another $1 million. And thereafter, we hope to be able to contribute $2 million every year.”

The announcement was also welcomed by national sporting bodies. Belize Basketball Federation President Jacob Leslie described the funding as a milestone moment for athletes and administrators alike. “it’s a big moment for us,” Leslie said.

“I think when we heard last election that Minister Mahler, along with Devon Daly, would be the ones in charge of the ministry of youth and sports. There was a level of excitement and anticipation and a great expectation in regard to what we anticipated that duo would do now.”