AGP Executive Report

Sustainable Tourism: Belize’s Strong Coasts project showcased community-led monitoring of the country’s 400-plus cayes at SOTIC 2026, combining reef and mangrove surveys with local knowledge to support sustainable tourism. Water Access: Mabil Ha’s new $1.3 million system brings potable water to 56 homes, powered by solar energy with a backup generator. Marine Protection: Residents can weigh in October 15 on a proposed undersea cable route through Belizean waters and part of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve; written comments are due October 21. Mangrove Enforcement: A landowner has been charged after about a quarter-acre of red mangroves was cleared along the Belize River; restoration and a halt to further development have been ordered. Coastal Resilience: A new assessment examined how sargassum affects tourism, fishing and livelihoods in six coastal communities, to help guide Belize’s response. Climate Risks: Experts warn strengthening El Niño could bring hotter, drier conditions that strain farms, crops and water supplies in the coming months.

Coastal Impacts: Belize’s environment department reviewed a new assessment of how recurring sargassum affects coastal livelihoods, tourism, fisheries and marine resources, with findings intended to guide preparedness. Mangrove Protection: After about 3.78 acres of vegetation were cleared along the Belize River, including red mangroves removed without a permit, authorities ordered restoration and riverbank stabilization and halted further development. Energy Decisions: Cabinet approved oil and gas production-sharing agreements with Maranco and Cara Energy, subject to conditions that were not disclosed. Water Access: Mabil Ha Village opened a solar-powered water system serving 56 homes and institutions, improving access to reliable water. Climate and Farming: Experts warn strengthening El Niño could bring hotter, drier conditions and greater strain on crops, livestock and water supplies through the coming months. Forest Restoration: Ya’axché and the Forest Department are working to restore up to 200 acres in Toledo’s Machaca Forest Reserve, including through tree-based farming systems. Marine Conservation: Belize’s Sustainable Ocean Plan aims to protect marine resources, while proposed new wildlife legislation would strengthen enforcement and penalties.

Mangrove Enforcement: Belize’s Environment Department ordered restoration and riverbank stabilization after a clearing near Mile 6.5 removed about a quarter-acre of red mangroves; the landowner was charged, and a $10,000 settlement was reported. Water Access: Mabil Ha in Toledo opened a $1.3 million solar-powered water system, bringing reliable supply to 56 homes and institutions. Climate Pressures: September was the planet’s second-hottest on record. Belizean farmers are also preparing for a potentially very strong El Niño, with hotter, drier conditions expected to strain crops and water supplies. Youth Action: Students from six Belize City high schools are developing proposals on water access, mangrove restoration, microplastics and sargassum. Forest Recovery: Ya’axché and the Forest Department aim to restore up to 200 acres in Toledo’s Machaca Forest Reserve, working with farmers on tree-and-livestock systems. Wildlife and Oceans: Government plans to replace Belize’s Wildlife Protection Act with tougher enforcement and fines, while the Sustainable Ocean Plan advances protections for marine resources.

Water and Climate: Six Belize City high schools are developing solutions to threats to water resources, with student projects addressing water access, mangroves, microplastics and sargassum. Forest Restoration: Ya’axché and the Forest Department aim to restore up to 200 acres in Toledo’s Machaca Forest Reserve, working with nearby farmers on tree-and-livestock systems to help protect the watershed. Farmers Brace for El Niño: A very strong event could bring hotter, drier conditions through the coming months, increasing pressure on crops, livestock and water supplies. Wildlife Protection: Government plans to replace the Wildlife Protection Act with legislation that strengthens enforcement, raises fines and improves wildlife management. Marine Conservation: Belize’s Sustainable Ocean Plan is advancing under the Blue Bond agreement, which requires biodiversity protection zones across 30% of the country’s ocean. Mangrove Enforcement: A developer paid a BZ$10,000 settlement over unauthorized mangrove alteration along the Belize River and must install a seawall and begin replanting.

Climate and Energy: Belize’s Carlos Fuller was elected to the SIDS DOCK Executive Council for 2027–2029, alongside regional leaders focused on climate resilience and energy transformation. Farming Risks: Officials warn a strengthening El Niño could bring hotter, drier conditions through the coming months, threatening crops, livestock and water supplies; experts are urging farmers to prepare. Wildlife Protection: Government plans to replace the Wildlife Protection Act with stronger enforcement and higher fines. Five Belizeans were also honoured for their conservation work. Ocean Conservation: Lawmakers debated the Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan, which would guide use of marine resources and help meet a Blue Bonds target to protect 30% of Belize’s ocean; some raised concerns about consultation and effects on fishing communities. Mangrove Enforcement: A developer agreed to a BZ$10,000 settlement over unauthorized mangrove clearing along the Belize River and must install a seawall and begin replanting. Marine Life: Marie Sharp’s and Clearwater Marine Institute launched a manatee-awareness partnership, with part of the proceeds from a special sauce supporting conservation.

El Niño Risks: Belizean farmers are being urged to prepare for hotter, drier conditions, with a 97% chance El Niño will persist through April 2027 and an 81% chance it will become very strong from November to January. Experts are sharing mitigation advice as crops, livestock and water supplies face added pressure. Wildlife Protection: Government plans to replace the Wildlife Protection Act with legislation that would strengthen enforcement, fines and conservation management. Ocean Planning: Parliament debated Belize’s Sustainable Ocean Plan, a framework for managing marine activities and meeting a Blue Bond target to protect 30% of the country’s ocean. Mangrove Enforcement: A developer paid a BZ$10,000 settlement after unauthorized mangrove clearing along the Belize River and must install a seawall and begin replanting, subject to approval. Species Conservation: A new partnership is raising funds and awareness to protect manatees, while researchers are working to safeguard threatened American crocodile populations in Belize and Jamaica.

Climate and Farming: A strengthening El Niño could bring hotter, drier conditions that strain Belize’s crops, livestock and water supplies. Forecasters put the chance it will persist through April 2027 at 97%, with the strongest conditions expected from November to January. Wildlife Protection: Government plans to replace the Wildlife Protection Act with a law that raises fines and strengthens enforcement and oversight. Five Belizeans were also honoured for their work protecting wildlife. Marine Conservation: The House debated the Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan, which sets a framework for managing ocean activities and meeting a Blue Bond commitment to protect 30% of Belize’s ocean. Mangrove Enforcement: A developer agreed to a BZ$10,000 settlement over unauthorized mangrove clearing along the Belize River and must install a seawall and begin replanting, subject to approval. Fisheries: Officers seized 1,086 conch at Sandbore Caye during the closed season; one person has been charged.

Wildlife Law Overhaul: Belize is moving to repeal and replace the Wildlife Protection Act, with new legislation aimed at stronger enforcement, higher fines, and better wildlife governance, plus training for tackling illegal trafficking and human-wildlife conflict. Mangrove Enforcement: The Forest Department reached a $10,000 out-of-court settlement with a developer after unauthorized red mangrove clearing along the Belize River, ordering a seawall and mangrove replanting. Marine Protection Push: The House debated and advanced the Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan under the Blue Bonds Act, targeting marine biodiversity protection zones covering 30% of Belize’s ocean. Marine Conservation Recognition: Oceana honored Belize’s “Wavemakers” and partners for district-level marine conservation work, including a National Wavemaker of the Year. Manatee Awareness Partnership: Marie Sharp’s teamed with the Clearwater Marine Institute to fund manatee conservation through a limited-edition hot sauce. Fisheries Crackdown: Officers seized 1,086 conch during a Sandbore Caye operation for possession during the closed season. Climate-Smart Agriculture: Coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk received training to spot and stop pests and diseases threatening production. Maya Food History: UNM-led research found early maize farming in the Maya region, showing long-term adaptation of agriculture to changing environments.

Wildlife Law Overhaul: Belize is moving to repeal and replace the Wildlife Protection Act, with a new Bill aimed at stronger enforcement, higher fines, and better wildlife governance, announced by Sustainable Development Minister Orlando Habet at the 2026 Wildlife Ambassador Conference and Wildlife Hero Awards. Marine Protection Debate: The House debated and advanced the Belize Sustainable Ocean Plan under the Blue Bonds framework, including biodiversity protection zones covering 30% of Belize’s ocean, while MPs raised concerns about late submission and how communities and fishers will be affected. Mangrove Enforcement: A developer agreed to a $10,000 out-of-court settlement after unauthorized clearing of red mangroves along the Belize River; the Forest Department also reached a separate $10,000 settlement in another mangrove alteration case and reiterated that permits are required. Wildlife & Fisheries Action: Oceana recognized local marine conservation “Wavemakers,” while Fisheries officers seized 1,086 conch during a Sandbore Caye patrol during the closed season. Manatee Awareness Partnership: Marie Sharp’s teamed with the Clearwater Marine Institute to support manatee conservation through a limited-edition hot sauce campaign. Agriculture Training: FAO-backed workshops trained 60+ coconut farmers to spot and manage pests and diseases, with more districts scheduled.

Mangrove Enforcement: A developer agreed to a $10,000 settlement after unauthorized clearing of red mangroves along the Belize River; the Forest Department ordered a seawall and mangrove replanting within a seven-month deadline. Ocean Protection: The House debated and advanced Belize’s Sustainable Ocean Plan under the Blue Bonds Act, aiming to secure biodiversity protection zones covering 30% of Belize’s ocean. Wildlife Recognition: Belize honoured five 2026 Wildlife Heroes, spotlighting local leaders protecting biodiversity and One Health. Marine Conservation Partnerships: Oceana recognized district Wavemakers for marine work, while Marie Sharp’s teamed with Clearwater Marine Institute to boost manatee protection through a limited-edition hot sauce. Illegal Fishing Crackdown: Fisheries officers seized 1,086 conch during a Sandbore Caye operation and charged an individual for possession during the closed season. Climate-Resilient Agriculture: More than 60 coconut farmers were trained to spot and stop crop pests and diseases, with further district workshops planned. Green Business Support: CDB launched a US$500,000 initiative to back women-led clean energy businesses across Belize and the region. Hot Weather Advisory: Meteorological updates warn of hot conditions with showers and thunderstorms, plus choppy seas and small-craft caution.

Toledo Air Access at Risk: Tropic Air says it will end scheduled flights and close its Punta Gorda station effective Nov. 1, citing sustained losses and uncertainty in Belize’s domestic aviation outlook—prompting emergency talks with tourism and business groups over impacts on cargo, services, and connectivity. Fisheries Enforcement: Belize Fisheries Department officers, with Coast Guard and Belize Audubon, seized 1,086 conch at Sandbore Caye during a closed-season patrol; one person was charged and the case is before the court. Agriculture Pest Control: More than 60 coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk completed FAO-backed training to spot and manage pests and diseases, with more districts next. Solid Waste Leadership Controversy: The Public Service Union is challenging the appointment of Abelardo Mai Jr. as Acting Director of the Solid Waste Management Authority, alleging hiring rules were bypassed and raising nepotism concerns. Weather Watch: Unsettled conditions continue with showers and thunderstorms possible, plus a small craft caution and choppy seas. Biodiversity Signal: Camera traps in Guatemala captured a once-in-a-decade jaguar snapshot, highlighting ongoing corridor connectivity for the species. Clean Energy Support: CDB launched a US$500,000 initiative to back women-led businesses developing clean energy solutions across the region, including Belize.

Solid Waste Governance Clash: The Public Service Union is challenging the appointment of Abelardo Mai Jr. as Acting Director of the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority, alleging recruitment rules were bypassed and experienced officers were not given a fair chance—while the Prime Minister says the role is temporary and Mai has the managerial training needed. Fisheries Enforcement: At Sandbore Caye in the Lighthouse Reef Marine Reserve, fisheries officers seized 1,086 conch from two iceboxes during a patrol; an individual was charged for possession during the closed season. Coconut Pest Control: Over 60 coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk received FAO-led training to spot and manage pests and diseases, with more district workshops planned. Toledo Air Connectivity at Risk: Tropic Air says it will end scheduled service to Punta Gorda and close its station on Nov. 1, citing sustained losses and uncertainty in Belize’s domestic aviation outlook—prompting calls for alternatives. Biodiversity Corridor Hope: Camera traps in Guatemala and Honduras captured jaguars using a bi-national wildlife corridor, reinforcing efforts to keep connectivity for the Near Threatened species. Clean Energy Support for Women: The Caribbean Development Bank launched a US$500,000 initiative to back women-led businesses developing clean energy solutions, including support for Belizean applicants. Diplomacy & Climate Links: Belize and Taiwan signed agreements on diplomatic training and a Taiwan-Caribbean Academy, with talks also touching smart transport and managing sargassum impacts on tourism. Weather Watch: Unsettled conditions continue with showers and thunderstorms possible, plus a small craft caution and choppy seas.

Wildlife & Biodiversity: Camera-trap photos of a male jaguar in Guatemala suggest the Bi-National Corridor linking Guatemala and Honduras is still functioning, offering hope for jaguar connectivity despite human pressure. Fisheries Enforcement: Belize Fisheries Department officers, with Coast Guard and Audubon support, seized 1,086 conch at Sandbore Caye during a closed-season patrol; one person was charged and the case is before the courts. Agriculture (Coconut Resilience): Over 60 coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk were trained to spot and manage pests and diseases, with more district workshops scheduled under FAO’s One Country One Priority Product initiative. Solid Waste Governance: The Public Service Union is challenging the appointment of Abelardo Mai Jr. as Acting Director of the Solid Waste Management Authority, alleging hiring rules were bypassed and raising nepotism concerns. Climate & Weather: Belize is starting October hot—around 94°F inland—with isolated showers and thunderstorms and no immediate tropical threats reported. Regional Green Economy: The Caribbean Development Bank launched a US$500,000 facility to support women-led businesses developing clean energy solutions across Belize and other CARICOM states. Transport & Community Impact: Tropic Air says it will end Punta Gorda service on Nov. 1, triggering emergency calls from Toledo stakeholders over lost connectivity.

Fisheries Enforcement: Belize Fisheries Department, with Coast Guard and Belize Audubon, seized 1,086 conch from two iceboxes at Sandbore Caye and charged an individual for possessing conch during the closed season. Coastal & Marine Trade: Eastern Caribbean fishers visited Belize to learn about lobster handling and fisheries management, aiming to expand seafood trade with Belize. Agriculture Resilience: More than 60 coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk were trained to spot and control pests and diseases, with more district workshops planned. Solid Waste Governance: The Public Service Union is challenging the appointment of Abelardo Mai Jr. as Acting Director of the Solid Waste Management Authority, alleging hiring rules were bypassed and raising nepotism concerns. Toledo Air Link at Risk: Tropic Air says it will end scheduled service to Punta Gorda on Nov. 1, prompting emergency talks over impacts on tourism, cargo, and access to services. Climate & Community: Belize Climate Ready Campaign was launched, and CARICOM youth climate stories highlighted a “climate-secure future” vision. Weather Watch: October is starting hot, with inland temperatures near 94°F and isolated afternoon showers/thunderstorms.

Fisheries Enforcement: Belize Fisheries Department officers, with Coast Guard and Belize Audubon, seized 1,086 conch from two iceboxes during a closed-season patrol at Sandbore Caye in the Lighthouse Reef Atoll Marine Reserve; one person was charged and the case is before the court. Solid Waste Governance: The Public Service Union is escalating concerns over Prime Minister Briceño’s appointment of Abelardo Mai Jr. as Acting Director of the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority, alleging hiring rules were bypassed and raising nepotism and merit issues. Agriculture & Resilience: The Ministry of Agriculture trained coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk on pest and disease management under FAO’s OCOP “One Country One Priority Product” initiative, with more workshops planned. Clean Energy Support: The Caribbean Development Bank launched a US$500,000 SheTrades Caribbean Hub initiative (2026–2028) to back women-led businesses developing clean energy solutions across Belize and other CARICOM states. Climate & Tourism Link: Taiwan’s foreign minister met Belize leaders and discussed smart transport and ways to reduce sargassum’s marine and ecological impacts to protect sustainable tourism. Hot Weather Alert: Belize starts October with inland temperatures near 94°F, isolated afternoon showers and no immediate tropical threats reported. Biodiversity Conservation: The U.S. Embassy is funding conservation work at Caracol Archaeological Reserve to stabilize and protect the site as visitor numbers rise. Toledo Connectivity: Tropic Air will close its Punta Gorda station and end flights effective Nov. 1, prompting emergency calls to keep Toledo connected.

Solid Waste Governance Clash: The Public Service Union is challenging the appointment of Abelardo Mai Jr. as Acting Director of the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority, alleging hiring rules were bypassed and that experienced officers were not given a fair chance—fueling nepotism concerns. Toledo Air Connectivity at Risk: Tropic Air says it will close its Punta Gorda station and end flights to Toledo on Nov. 1, citing sustained losses and uncertainty in Belize’s domestic aviation outlook; Toledo stakeholders are pushing for alternatives. Coconut Sector Support: The Ministry of Agriculture completed FAO-led training for coconut farmers in Belize and Orange Walk on pest and disease management, with more workshops planned for other districts. Clean Energy for Women Entrepreneurs: The Caribbean Development Bank launched a US$500,000 initiative to back women-led businesses developing clean energy solutions across the region, including Belize. Diplomatic Training and Climate Tourism Tech: Belize and Taiwan signed agreements to strengthen diplomatic staff training and support a Taiwan-Caribbean Academy, with talks also focusing on smart transport and reducing sargassum impacts on tourism. Caracol Conservation Funding: The U.S. Embassy is investing over US$400,000 to stabilize and conserve the Caracol Maya site as visitor numbers rise. Hot Start to October: Belize is seeing hot inland temperatures near 94°F with isolated showers and thunderstorms, and no immediate tropical threats reported.