BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC—The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) says it is involved in a project that aims to foster climate resilience and economic sustainability in communities across the country.
It said it is collaborating with the Cooperative Department and Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) in the Sustainable Livelihood Project, an initiative spearheaded by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).
As part of the second phase of the project, BELTRAIDE has been allocated BZD$744,500 (One Belize dollar = US$0.49 cent) to support the development of nature-based enterprises. This funding will equip five community groups with business development skills and technical assistance and expand market access for sustainable ventures.
The initiative strengthens Belize’s national commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development, empowering communities that rely on natural resources for their livelihoods.
BELTRAIDE’s executive director, Ishmael Quiroz, held talks with IICA’s Representative in Belize, Mauricio Guevara, focusing on finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will serve as the framework for BELTRAIDE’s contributions to the project.
This initiative receives financing from the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) through its Adaptation Fund Enhanced Direct Access funding window as part of the Building Community Resilience via Transformative Adaptation project, which supports initiatives to bolster Belize’s resilience against climate threats, such as droughts, water scarcity’s, floods, and wildfires.
BELTRAIDE will drive the development of five nature-based enterprises in key communities, ensuring local entrepreneurs are equipped with essential tools and knowledge to build resilient and profitable businesses while preserving Belize’s rich natural resources.
Through targeted training and mentorship programs, BELTRAIDE will empower community members, including women and youth, enhancing their economic sustainability and strengthening their climate resilience.
“This partnership with IICA, MAFSE, and the Cooperative Department is a significant step forward in promoting sustainable economic development in Belize,” said Quiroz.
“By supporting the development of climate-resilient businesses, we are not only enhancing the livelihoods of Belizeans but also contributing to the country’s long-term sustainability goals,” he added.
BELTRAIDE said the collaboration demonstrates its commitment to fostering a robust and sustainable business environment that integrates climate resilience, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship into its core strategies.
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