Here’s Why Belize is Launching ‘Belize Moves’

Belize’s nationwide campaign encouraging Belizeans to adopt healthier lifestyles has officially kicked off. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard called the ‘Belize Moves’ campaign “a national movement” rather than a programme.

The initiative was launched at Sir George Brown Park in Belmopan and builds on the MOHW’s ‘Love Your Heart’ pilot programme and rests on three pillars: move more, eat better, and know your numbers.

“We are launching a national movement, a movement that calls on all of us to take action, make healthier choices, and work together to build a stronger and healthier Belize,” Bernard said.

In his address, Bernard drew attention to how non-communicable diseases, including heart diseases, diabetes, cancer, and hypertension, account for roughly 65% of all deaths in Belize.

“Behind each statistic is a mother, a father, a brother, a sister, a friend or a neighbour whose life has been impacted by preventable illnesses,” he added.

Bernard said the programme will expand into schools, workplaces and communities through health fairs, fitness activities and wellness programmes designed to make healthy living part of everyday life.

The initiative is supported by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Taiwan’s International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF), and local municipalities.

“Taiwan is proud to work hand-in-hand with Belize through the projects for strengthening metabolic chronic disease prevention and control system,” said Taiwan’s Ambassador to Belize, Anmin C.Y. Chi.