Building Strategic Partnerships for a Sustainable Future
The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation (MBEMC) has successfully concluded a pivotal two-day stakeholder sensitization workshop aimed at fostering cross-sector collaboration and accelerating the development of Belize’s Blue Economy. The workshop, held under Component 3 of the national technical cooperation project BL-T1145: Development of the Blue Economy in Belize, received crucial support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) through the Compete Caribbean Partnership Facility.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders from diverse sectors to strengthen Belize’s Blue Economy framework and advance its implementation. Through tailored discussions, participants gained comprehensive insights into key blue economy initiatives currently underway in Belize, creating a collaborative platform for sharing insights and establishing pathways toward sustainable partnerships.
Over the two days, attendees engaged in interactive sessions facilitated by sector experts, examined real-life success stories, and participated in collaborative discussions that fostered a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges in developing Belize’s Blue Economy.
Ms. Beverly Wade, Chief Executive Officer of the MBEMC, emphasized the critical importance of stakeholder engagement: “It is vital for us to build a truly resilient and inclusive Blue Economy in Belize. This workshop marks a crucial step toward laying the foundation for stronger partnerships and a more connected national effort.”
Comprehensive Support for Blue Economy Development
The BL-T1145 project, initiated in 2022, aims to strengthen the policy and institutional framework for the development of the Blue Economy in Belize. This ongoing initiative supports the Ministry (recently renamed from Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation to Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation)
Key achievements of the project to date include:
– A comprehensive Blue Economy legislative gap analysis
– Development of a groundbreaking Blue Economy Bill
– Completion of an institutional capacity gap analysis
– Implementation of capacity building initiatives for the Blue Economy Unit, the Fisheries Department, and the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI)
– Development of a framework for a Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification system for the Blue Economy
– Generation of partnerships within Belize’s institutional arrangements and with other countries to ensure information sharing and policy feedback loops
Inclusive Economic Growth Through Stakeholder Engagement
A distinctive feature of this project is its focus on wider stakeholder sensitization, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and women entrepreneurs. The project incorporates comprehensive communications and knowledge management activities to inform stakeholders about institutional and regulatory reforms and their benefits for the local economy.
Special attention has been given to gender considerations and concrete measures to improve policy development and program management by the Ministry. The recently concluded workshop is part of these broader efforts to ensure that all stakeholders understand and can participate in Belize’s Blue Economy development.
Growing International Support for Belize’s Blue Economy
This support complements the Compete Caribbean Partnership Facility’s ongoing efforts to stimulate entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development across the Caribbean region, with the Blue Economy project being one of several initiatives aimed at enhancing Belize’s economic growth and sustainability.
Other projects supported by Compete Caribbean in Belize include:
– Digital technology development for improving the business climate
– Sustainable production enhancement in the shrimp cluster
– Innovation platforms for social and economic impact
– Technology adoption for financial inclusion in the sugar industry
About the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation
The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation (MBEMC) is responsible for overseeing the sustainable development of Belize’s marine resources and blue economy sectors. The Ministry works to ensure that Belize’s ocean-based economic activities contribute to sustainable development, poverty reduction, and the building of resilient communities while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.
For more information about the Development of the Blue Economy in Belize project or other Compete Caribbean initiatives in Belize, please click the link below
