July 19, 2025 - Greater Belize Media

BREAKING: Jet Ski Accident, Search Underway

Authorities have launched a search operation following a jet ski accident near the Haulover Bridge in Belize City. Reports to our newsroom indicate that two individuals were on board the watercraft when the incident occurred.

While one person has been accounted for, a search for the other is underway. We are told that the Belize Coast Guard was contacted and is currently conducting search efforts in the area.

Details surrounding the cause of the accident are still under investigation. This is a developing story.

Stakeholders Launch Committee to Modernise Belize’s Bus System

The inaugural meeting of the National Bus Company Pro Temp Advisory Committee took place on Friday.

The inaugural meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to driving transformative change in the country’s public transportation network.

The new Advisory Committee unites representatives from government ministries, bus operators, unions, commuter groups, and technical experts. The goal is to shape and guide the implementation of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework that aims to modernise bus services and deliver a more efficient and inclusive system for commuters nationwide.

Participants described the meeting as productive and optimistic, with members pledging continued collaboration and technical input to achieve key milestones under the PPP framework. The committee will meet regularly to ensure that all stakeholder voices are heard as Belize works to build a modern and reliable national bus system.

New Board for National Women’s Commission Inaugurated

The National Women’s Commission (NWC) officially installed its new Board of Commissioners on Thursday during a ceremony in Belize City.

The event featured remarks from Minister of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs, Thea Garcia-Ramirez, and Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, Rosanna Briceño. Both highlighted the importance of stronger support and representation for women and girls in Belize.

In her address, Minister Garcia-Ramirez said the new board shows a renewed commitment to protecting the rights of women and creating more opportunities for them to lead and thrive. Mrs. Briceño added that she is confident the new board will help break barriers and build a better future for all women and girls.

The new board, chaired by Cristina Romero, includes members from civil society, education, government, and community groups.

The National Women’s Commission remains Belize’s main advisory body on gender and works with the government and partners to promote gender equality and women’s rights.

Officer Uses Violence Against Child Under State Care

The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs says it remains firm in its zero-tolerance policy on corporal punishment and any form of violence against children. The ministry released a statement following an alleged incident involving a minor at the New Beginnings Youth Development Centre.

According to the ministry, on July 15 it was alerted to an incident in which an officer allegedly used violence against a child under state care. The child was immediately given medical attention and later escorted to the Hattieville Police Station to make an official report. The child’s family was also notified, and the ministry says it is awaiting further input from them to proceed with the criminal investigation.

In the meantime, the officer involved has been placed on immediate leave and barred from returning to the facility. Steps toward their termination have already been initiated.

The ministry said that New Beginnings, with the help of international partners, is undergoing a complete overhaul of its policies and programs to strengthen protection for children and ensure that strict no-violence standards are upheld.

The ministry said it “remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding children and upholding their rights to protection, care, and dignity.”