Educator and Garifuna Cultural Leader Sebastian Cayetano Dies

Sebastian Cayetano, a veteran educator and a leading voice for Garifuna culture and heritage, has died.

Cayetano is the father of News 5 Director Isani Cayetano. On Friday, the family appealed to the public for help with his medical expenses. His son said he had been diagnosed with an enlarged heart about five years ago, and that doctors had since found his kidneys were failing.

The National Garifuna Council Belize City Branch described Cayetano as its “beloved former president, veteran educator, historian, and cultural giant.” The council said that through his decades of teaching, his leadership within the NGC and his dedication to the Luba Garifuna Museum, “he ensured that our history, language, and traditions would never be forgotten.”

The NGC called him “a true pillar of strength, knowledge, and pride for the Garifuna nation” and extended condolences to his family, loved ones and friends, and the wider Garifuna community.

The council urged Garinagu at home and in the diaspora to honour his memory by continuing his mission. “Teach the children our language. Share our history. Protect our culture. Stand proud in our identity,” the NGC said.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology also paid tribute. Minister Francis Fonseca, the ministry’s senior management team and its staff described Cayetano as “a distinguished educator and passionate advocate for Garifuna culture and heritage.”

The ministry said Cayetano served as an educator at both the primary and secondary levels from 1965 to 2004, “shaping generations of Belizeans.” It called him a proud defender of Garifuna identity, language and traditions who dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Belize’s cultural heritage.

“His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to embrace, protect and celebrate our diverse cultural identities,” the ministry said, extending its condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.