Eco-Museum Belize has been awarded a Silver Award at the prestigious 2026 International Center for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) Responsible Tourism Awards. The global award recognizes outstanding organizations driving sustainable development, cultural preservation, and community empowerment within the travel sector.

Eco-Museum Belize was celebrated for its pioneering “museum without walls” model. Rather than storing history behind glass, the organization turns local landscapes, traditional practices, and living culture into interactive educational spaces. This initiative directly empowers Belizeans to serve as the primary custodians and storytellers of their own heritage, ensuring that the economic and social benefits of tourism remain rooted within local communities.

Delivered in partnership with the International Center for Responsible Tourism (ICRT), the awards celebrate businesses and initiatives that create meaningful, positive impacts for both residents and visitors. Eco-Museum Belize was one of two Belizean organizations recognized in this year’s regional honors, underscoring the nation’s growing prominence as a global leader in sustainable travel.

Recognition Highlights Eco-Museum Belize’s Dedication

‘Receiving this Silver Award from ICRT is an incredible validation of our mission,’ said Paz, Curator. ‘Belize’s culture is alive, dynamic, and best shared through the eyes of our own people. This award belongs to every local storyteller, artisan, and community member who keeps our heritage vibrant every day.’

The ICRT recognition highlights Eco-Museum Belize’s dedication to community-led tourism, aligning with broader national efforts to protect Belize’s cultural identity while fostering economic resilience.

For more information about Eco-Museum Belize, its community programs, or tour experiences, visit Website or follow on Facebook.

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There was a time when a power outage in Belize was an inconvenience. The lights went out, we complained for a little while, waited for BEL to fix the problem, and life continued. Today, it feels different.

Power outages have become frequent enough that Belize Electricity Limited is now talking about load shedding as part of our everyday vocabulary. We receive notices telling us which communities may lose electricity and when. Businesses prepare generators, families charge their devices whenever electricity is available, and people wonder whether tonight will be another night spent in darkness and heat.

That should concern every Belizean.

The nationwide blackout on Tuesday, August 25, exposed just how vulnerable our electricity system has become. According to BEL, electricity being supplied by Mexico’s Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) was temporarily lost at 7:28 p.m. because of problems within the Mexican power system. At that moment, Belize had approximately 103 megawatts of available domestic generation, while evening demand had reached approximately 122 megawatts.

We were short by around 19 megawatts.

BEL’s grid protection system responded by shedding load in different parts of the country in an attempt to stabilize the national grid. CFE supply was not restored until 10:54 p.m. BEL also acknowledged that local generation remains constrained because some renewable sources are affected by seasonal conditions, while other generating units are undergoing maintenance or operating at reduced capacity.

Think about what that means. When Mexico experienced a problem, Belize simply did not have enough available electricity of its own to meet demand. That is not merely a power outage problem. That is an energy security problem.

We Have Become Too Dependent on Mexico
There is nothing inherently wrong with purchasing electricity from Mexico. In fact, Belize has benefited greatly from its connection to the Mexican grid since 1998. CFE can provide Belize with up to approximately 55 MW of capacity, making imported electricity an important part of our national energy mix. BEL itself reported that peak demand reached 132.3 MW in 2025, demonstrating how much electricity our growing country now requires.

The problem is not that we buy electricity from Mexico; the problem is what happens when Mexico cannot sell it to us. We have already been warned about this vulnerability. BEL’s own 2024 annual report stated that Mexico substantially reduced electricity exports to Belize between April and June of that year because CFE was experiencing generation shortages during its own evening peak periods. Belize had to compensate by increasing expensive fossil-fuel generation.

Two years later, we are experiencing the same vulnerability.

In June of this year, BEL again warned customers that problems with CFE supply, combined with limited local generation, could force additional load shedding. Now August has brought another major disruption. At what point do we stop calling this an unexpected situation and start accepting that it is a structural weakness in our electricity system?

Mexico has its own growing population, industries, heat waves and increasing electricity demand. When its grid is under pressure, Mexico will understandably prioritize its own consumers. Belize cannot build its future around the assumption that another country will always have electricity available for us.

Belize Is Growing Faster Than Our Electricity Supply
This issue becomes even more serious when we consider how quickly Belize is developing. Look at San Pedro alone: Every year we add hotels, condominiums, apartment buildings, restaurants, supermarkets, resorts and residential developments. Air conditioners run almost everywhere. Tourism businesses require refrigeration, water pumps, computers, internet equipment, lighting, kitchens and countless other electrical systems. The same growth is taking place in Belize City, Belmopan, Placencia, Orange Walk, Corozal and other communities.

Electricity demand will not decrease – It will increase; yet we seem to be adding demand faster than we are adding dependable generation. We cannot continue approving massive developments, new resorts and subdivisions while treating electricity generation as something we will eventually figure out. Energy infrastructure has to grow before or alongside development, not years after it.’

Power Outage

The Economic Damage Goes Far Beyond Sitting in the Dark
For a homeowner, a power outage means discomfort. For a business, it can mean money. Restaurants risk losing refrigerated and frozen products. Hotels have guests paying hundreds of dollars per night expecting air conditioning, internet and basic services. Supermarkets operate large refrigeration systems. Hospitals and clinics depend on reliable electricity for medical equipment. Offices lose productivity. Small businesses lose sales.

Then there is the hidden cost.

Businesses increasingly feel pressured to purchase generators, fuel, voltage regulators, surge protectors, battery backups and solar systems simply to protect themselves against an unreliable grid. Those costs eventually find their way into the price of goods and services. So when electricity becomes unreliable, the entire country pays for it.

For tourism destinations like San Pedro, Placencia and Caye Caulker, there is another consequence. Visitors do not necessarily understand why the electricity is gone. They simply know that they paid for a vacation and their hotel room has no power. Enough experiences like that eventually damage a destination’s reputation.

And Now Electricity Is Becoming More Expensive
What makes the situation even harder for Belizeans is that reliability concerns are arriving at the same time as widespread complaints about higher electricity bills. Belizeans are taking to Facebook to complain about dramatic increases, with some consumers saying their bills had doubled or even tripled. BEL itself acknowledged that it has been receiving significantly more billing complaints than during the same period in previous years. BEL has attributed the increases to several factors, including hotter temperatures increasing consumption, longer billing periods, meter replacements, arrears and some meter-reading issues.

Meanwhile, consumers are also seeing a Cost of Power Adjustment approved by the Public Utilities Commission as BEL attempts to recover higher electricity purchasing costs. This creates a very frustrating situation for the public. We are being asked to pay more while simultaneously being told there may not be enough electricity to keep the lights on. People have every right to question that.

Belizeans Deserve Better
BEL employees working on transmission lines, substations and emergency restoration are not the enemy here. Many of them work long hours under difficult conditions whenever something goes wrong. But the institution, its leadership, the Public Utilities Commission and, most importantly, the Government of Belize, have a responsibility to provide the country with a dependable electricity system.

The Government cannot pretend it is simply an observer; BEL is overwhelmingly publicly owned. The Government of Belize holds approximately 65.9% of the company, while the Social Security Board owns another 31.27%. Combined, public-sector ownership exceeds 97%. This is therefore very much a national policy issue. Electricity is no longer a luxury, it is fundamental infrastructure, just like roads, water and telecommunications. Our economy cannot function without it.

There Are Solutions, But Belize Needs Them Faster
In January, BEL, the Government of Belize and the International Finance Corporation launched the development process for up to 80 MW of utility-scale solar generation at three or four locations across Belize. The project specifically aims to reduce dependence on imported electricity, strengthen energy security and help Belize reach its target of 75% renewable electricity generation by 2030.

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Belize continues to shine on the international stage as Miss World Belize, Faith Edgar, delivered an inspiring presentation during the prestigious 73rd Miss World Head-to-Head Challenge in Vietnam.

The Head-to-Head Challenge is one of the pageant’s most anticipated events, giving contestants the opportunity to showcase their communication skills, confidence, intellect, and the causes they are passionate about. Representatives from the Americas and the Caribbean captivated the audience with powerful speeches, personal stories, and meaningful messages that reflected who they are beyond the competition.

Faith proudly used her moment to highlight Smiles for Belize, her Beauty With a Purpose project aimed at improving access to dental care and oral health education for children and under-served communities throughout Belize.

Miss World Belize’s Heartfelt Message

Her heartfelt message resonated with supporters back home and drew praise from fellow Belizean queens. Former Miss San Pedro Yakarelis Hernandez, celebrated Faith’s journey, writing, “From Miss SPHS days to the Miss World stage! I am in love with your growth and determination.” She also highlighted Faith’s inspiring words: “No matter where we come from, it will never determine where we can go and that hard work and kindness will open doors… our greatest purpose in life is to serve others.”

Miss Universe Belize Isabella Zabaneh was equally moved by Faith’s presentation, saying she was “in absolute tears” after watching the speech. “Faith, you are an inspiration for the ages. I am so incredibly proud of you! Never stop smiling and never stop working to help others smile! We love you,” she shared.

Faith Edgar continues to represent Belize with grace, intelligence, and compassion as she competes among the world’s best. Her performance in the Head-to-Head Challenge is another proud moment for Belize and a reminder that our representatives continue to make an impact by using their voices to inspire positive change.

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It’s amazing how much this corner of San Pedro has changed over the years. Long before the boardwalk and all the activity we see today, this area (called the Embarcadero) looked completely different. The San Pedro Sports Complex wasn’t even an idea yet. Instead, there was an open football field known to every local player as Saca Chispas. Half of it was grass, the other half was bare dirt, but that never stopped countless football matches and unforgettable afternoons with friends.

Take a closer look at the waterfront behind the field. Those weren’t marinas or fancy docks. They were simple wooden shacks built by fishermen who tied up their boats there after long days on the sea. Every morning and afternoon, they returned with the catch of the day, bringing fresh seafood straight from the Caribbean to the island.

The Embarcadero Today

This photo captures a San Pedro that was still deeply connected to its fishing roots. The waterfront served hardworking fishermen, the football field belonged to the community, and development had yet to transform this side of town.

Today, the Embarcadero area has become one of the busiest and most recognizable spots on Ambergris Caye. The boardwalk welcomes residents and visitors alike, the Sports Complex hosts sporting events and celebrations, and the surrounding area continues to grow with businesses and activity.

Looking at this photograph, it’s hard to imagine just how much has changed. Yet beneath all the development lies the same spirit that has always defined San Pedro, a hardworking fishing community that continues to evolve while holding onto its history.

Do you remember playing football at Saca Chispas or watching the fishermen unload their boats here? Share your memories with us!

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The animals at SAGA Humane Society are enjoying a little more comfort these days thanks to the generosity of dedicated supporters who continue to make a difference in the lives of San Pedro’s rescued cats and dogs. The organization recently announced two significant improvements to its shelter that will greatly enhance the care and well-being of the animals awaiting their forever homes.

One of the most exciting additions is the construction of two outdoor catteries, made possible through the generosity of longtime volunteer, donor, and animal advocate Rebecca McCarthy. The new outdoor spaces give shelter cats something many of them have never experienced – room to explore, fresh air, sunshine, and a stimulating environment where they can simply be cats.

According to SAGA, the outdoor catteries provide a much larger area where the cats can stretch, roam, observe their surroundings, and enjoy greater freedom while remaining safe. Although the improvement may seem simple, the shelter says these enriching spaces have a tremendous impact on the animals’ mental and physical well-being, helping reduce stress while making life at the shelter much more enjoyable.

SAGA praised McCarthy not only for her generous donation but also for the countless hours she has invested in helping improve the shelter. Beyond financial support, she has contributed ideas, hands-on work, and a genuine passion for creating a happier environment for the animals in SAGA’s care.

Saga Humane Society’s New Kennels

The shelter also received a generous donation of new kennels from Kit Wrede and her partner, Brian, providing rescued dogs with safer, more comfortable accommodations while they await adoption.

SAGA says the upgraded kennels will significantly improve the comfort and welfare of the animals housed at the facility, making day-to-day care easier for staff while creating a more welcoming environment for the dogs. The organization also extended its appreciation to Pete and Mary Shaw, who volunteered their time and effort to help assemble and install the new kennels.

These latest improvements are another reminder that SAGA Humane Society‘s work is made possible through the kindness and generosity of volunteers, donors, and community members who believe every animal deserves compassion, comfort, and a second chance.

For decades, SAGA Humane Society has been dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding loving homes for abandoned and neglected animals on Ambergris Caye. Enhancements like the new outdoor catteries and upgraded kennels not only improve the quality of life for the animals currently at the shelter but also strengthen SAGA’s ability to continue serving the island community.

As the shelter continues its mission, these thoughtful additions stand as a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together for the welfare of its four-legged friends.

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Flying between Belize’s municipal airports will soon cost a little more. – The Government of Belize has approved a BZ$10 aviation security fee that will be charged to every departing passenger using the country’s municipal airports. According to this week’s Cabinet Brief, the new fee is intended to strengthen airport security and help Belize meet evolving international aviation standards.

The Belize Airports Authority, which oversees the safety, security, and operation of the country’s civil aviation system, says airport security requirements have changed significantly in recent years. As global security threats continue to evolve, airports are being required to adopt more advanced screening technology and comply with stricter international regulations.

Revenue generated from the new aviation security fee will help fund upgraded passenger screening procedures, modern security equipment, and other improvements to security infrastructure at municipal airports across Belize. For now, the charge applies only to passengers departing from municipal airports and is separate from the departure taxes already collected at the Philip Goldson International Airport.

Why an Aviation Security Fee?

The timing of the new aviation security fee is significant, coming just over a year after Belize experienced one of the most alarming incidents in its aviation history. On Holy Thursday 2025, a Tropic Air flight traveling from Corozal to San Pedro was hijacked by an armed passenger who attempted to force the aircraft to fly to the United States. Despite being stabbed during the ordeal, pilot Howell Grange managed to maintain control of the aircraft and land it safely, an act of courage that earned widespread recognition both nationally and internationally.

That incident exposed vulnerabilities within Belize’s domestic aviation system and sparked discussions about strengthening airport security, passenger screening, and emergency response procedures. While the new security fee may add a small cost to air travel, it represents part of a broader effort to ensure Belize’s municipal airports are better equipped to meet today’s aviation security challenges and provide safer travel for both residents and visitors.

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The San Pedro Town Council has announced that planning is underway for a new dedicated marketplace aimed at providing local retail and wholesale vendors with a safer, more comfortable, and organized space to conduct business.

The Council says it is currently working alongside the FAO Investment Centre, with input being gathered from both existing and prospective vendors to help shape the project. Plans call for the existing San Pedro Artisan Market, visitor center, and meeting space to be incorporated into the overall design. Adequate parking, improved traffic safety, and coordination with future plans for the nearby Saca Chispas area are also being considered as important components of the development.

According to the Town Council, community feedback is playing an important role in the planning process, with suggestions and concerns being documented and shared with the project team.

The proposed marketplace would provide San Pedro’s hardworking vendors with a permanent space to showcase and sell their products while creating another organized commercial and community area for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Town Council is encouraging residents and vendors to continue sharing their ideas as plans for the project develop.

Marketplace Project Site

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The streets of San Pedro Town were filled with pride, excitement, and plenty of Belizean spirit as residents gathered to give Miss World Belize 2026, Faith Edgar, a memorable sendoff as she departed her hometown to represent Belize on the world stage.

Leading the parade through the streets was the San Pedro High School Marching Band, followed by Faith as family, friends, supporters, and community members lined the streets to wish her well on the journey of a lifetime. It was a beautiful show of love from the island community that has watched her grow and cheered her on every step of the way.

Faith is now headed to Vietnam, where she will compete in the 73rd Miss World Festival, commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Miss World Organization. The month-long international event will run from August 9 through September 5, 2026, with contestants from around the globe participating in a series of challenges and cultural activities before the grand finale in the coastal city of Nha Trang.

As she carries the Belizean flag onto one of the world’s most prestigious pageant stages, Faith also carries with her the love and support of San Pedro and the entire country. From all of us in Belize, we wish Faith Edgar every success as she proudly represents our nation. Safe travels, enjoy every moment of this incredible experience, and know that your island is cheering you on every step of the way. Go make Belize proud!

Miss World Belize Send-off

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