Blue Cities and Beyond Project boosts Belize’s Capacity for Blue Economy implementation

By Zoila Palma:  The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation (MBEMC) and the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) have received new vehicles, a marine vessel, and other equipment aimed at strengthening their operational capacity to advance Belize’s Blue Economy initiatives.

The assets were officially handed over on Monday, September 14, 2026, by the Central Executing Unit (CEU) under the Ministry of Finance through the World Bank-financed Belize – Blue Cities and Beyond Project (P181064).

The handover included two Isuzu D-MAX vehicles, a 32-foot Ocean Runner vessel, a 32-foot trailer, a VHF marine radio, and two Yamaha four-stroke 200 HP outboard engines.

The two Isuzu D-MAX vehicles are valued at BZ$74,900 each, representing a combined investment of BZ$149,800. The vessel, trailer, marine radio, and two outboard engines are valued at approximately BZ$297,000, bringing the total value of the assets to approximately BZ$446,800. One vehicle was handed over to the MBEMC, while the remaining assets were handed over to the CZMAI.

The equipment was procured under Component 1 of the project, which focuses on policy development and capacity building. The investment is expected to enhance the institutional and operational capacity of both agencies to coordinate Blue Economy initiatives, carry out project implementation and field operations, conduct monitoring, and strengthen coastal and marine management activities.

The handover ceremony was held at the Fisheries Compound in Belize City and included the signing of the relevant asset transfer documentation.

Present were MBEMC Chief Executive Officer Beverly Wade, CZMAI Chief Executive Officer Chantalle Samuels, Belize – Blue Cities and Beyond Project Manager Carla Gillett, and Lenord Davis of the Assets and Utilities Management Unit.

Through the project, the Government of Belize is investing in the institutional capacity, equipment, and resources needed to support the sustainable management of the country’s coastal and marine resources and the continued development of its Blue Economy.

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