2025-05-16 - Greater Belize Media

Modern Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems Delivered to Corozal Farmers

Two agricultural cooperatives in the Corozal District have received state-of-the-art solar-powered irrigation systems as part of a major investment by the Resilient Rural Belize (RRB) Programme, under the Ministry of Economic Transformation (MET). The initiative aims to improve climate resilience and boost rural economic opportunities.

The two beneficiaries, the Northern Sustainable Agro-Producers Co-operative Society Limited and the Concepcion Vegetable Farmers Co-operative Society Limited, successfully tested and troubleshot the new systems.

The irrigation systems, powered by solar energy, include three solar pumps, 36 solar panels, 12 solar batteries, and two inverters, all installed by Prosolar, a Belmopan-based company. To protect the equipment, two custom-built sheds were also provided.

The total investment, valued at approximately $311,333.60, is expected to significantly enhance water access for farming during dry seasons, reduce electricity costs, and enable the use of fertigation systems. Each cooperative also received rainwater harvesting tanks and full drip irrigation kits, allowing members to irrigate up to 10 acres of farmland.

The systems will support the cultivation of crops such as onions, cabbages, carrots, and other vegetables, providing a sustainable path for year-round agriculture.

Taxi Man Rapes Customer

A 30-year-old Belizean taxi driver has been formally arrested and charged with the crime of rape, following a police investigation into a serious allegation made earlier this week.

According to police, the investigation began on Tuesday, May 13, after a woman reported that she was assaulted two days earlier.

The victim stated that on Sunday, May 11, around 8:00 a.m., she boarded a taxi operated by someone she knew. Instead of taking her to her intended destination, the driver allegedly diverted to his residence, where he proceeded to rape her.

BDF Completes Warrant Officers’ Course to Prepare Future Leaders

The Belize Defence Force (BDF) has successfully concluded its Warrant Officers’ Course 01/25, an intensive leadership and training program held at Price Barracks in Ladyville from March 24 to May 15, 2025. The course was tailored for staff sergeants preparing for promotion to company sergeant major roles, with a focus on enhancing their leadership and operational skills in both peacetime and combat scenarios.

Participants from the BDF and the Belize Police Department underwent a rigorous curriculum that included administration, military law, service writing, communication skills, and parade and ceremonial duties. The training aimed to develop their capability to lead effectively and uphold the core values of discipline and service.

The course was led by Lieutenant Colonel Lionel Olivera and Warrant Officer Class 1 Wilfred Mojano, who were commended for their dedication to excellence in military education.

Benque Lupus Walk Set for Tomorrow

The Benque Viejo Chapter of the Belize Lupus Association is continuing its 2025 Lupus Awareness Campaign with a community walk scheduled for tomorrow. This follows the successful hosting of its Second Annual Lupus Awareness Campaign earlier this week at Mopan Technical High School, where students, teachers, and staff gathered for an impactful educational event focused on lupus and autoimmune diseases.

Held on Monday, May 12, the event brought together medical professionals, advocates, and community leaders to raise awareness and foster dialogue around lupus—a chronic and often misunderstood autoimmune condition.

Jilma Leon, a lupus advocate, shared her powerful 58-year journey with the illness, detailing how a traumatic medical experience as a teenager led to her diagnosis.

The chapter now turns its focus to tomorrow’s community lupus walk, continuing its mission to raise awareness, foster empathy, and support those affected by lupus. Participants are encouraged to wear purple and join the movement for better understanding and care.

The walk starts at 5 p.m. at the Civic Centre.

Belize Launches Online Criminal Records Registry for Faster, Easier Access

The government has launched a new Online Criminal Records Registry (CRR), aimed at modernising access to police records and streamlining public services.

The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries and the Ministry of E-Governance.

The project is part of the government’s wider strategy to modernise the justice system and improve service delivery through the use of digital technology.

The new CRR system enables Belizeans to apply for Police Records of Conduct online, make digital payments, and receive their documents electronically, eliminating the need for in-person visits. Applicants will also receive real-time updates via SMS or email, enhancing transparency and accountability in the process.

While the system allows for fully online submissions and pickups, in-person assistance remains available at nine police stations across the country.

Over 30,000 Children Cross Perilous Darién Gap in First Months of 2024, UNICEF Reports

More than 30,000 children have crossed the Darién Gap, a dense jungle straddling Panama and Colombia, in the first four months of 2024.

According to UNICEF, the number of minors undertaking this perilous journey has increased by 40% compared to last year. Most of these children are attempting to reach the United States.

Migrants crossing the jungle often fall victim to robbery, extortion, and sexual abuse by criminal gangs. In December alone, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) recorded 214 cases of sexual violence in the Darién jungle. The international medical organization reported that armed men detained migrants, forced them to undress, and sexually abused them. While most victims were women, MSF also provided treatment to men and children.

There are no roads through the Darién Gap, and crossing on foot can take a week.