Minister Musa: ‘Generosity Matters More Than Backpack Authenticity’

The back-to-school season in Belize has been overshadowed by debate over the authenticity of JanSport backpacks distributed as donations. In Caribbean Shores, however, Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa says the focus should remain on the impact these gestures have on families preparing for the new school year.

“Every single year, politicians, and now even police officers like Mr Gamboa, receive donations from the business community as an act of kindness,” Musa told News 5. “This is a very trying time, a troubling time, and a lot of our families depend on these types of donations, so many times we don’t question whether it’s authentic or not.”

Concerns were raised after A&R spoke publicly about counterfeit bags undermining legitimate sales. “I think it’s a legal issue that perhaps A&R might have to take to the court against anybody who is importing fake backpacks, if they are fake,” he said.

Musa acknowledged the issue but pointed out that the intention behind the donations was not profit. “Mr Gamboa, let’s face it, is not making money off of these backpacks. He’s giving them out, and so there’s no money to be made off of these backpacks,” Musa said.

While he recognised that the matter may be one for the Customs Department or the courts, Musa brought focus to the positive outcome. “At the end of the day, what truly matters is the smiles on these children’s faces,” he said.