By Zoila Palma: Twelve communities in the Toledo District have formally partnered with the Government of Belize and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to advance the next phase of the European Union-funded PROSPER Project, aimed at promoting locally driven economic development.
The commitments were formalized during a ceremony in Punta Gorda on September 24, where village alcaldes and chairpersons signed Letters of Intent to establish Local Action Groups and develop local economic development plans.
The participating communities are Medina Bank, Golden Stream, San Miguel, San Pedro Columbia, San Antonio, Blue Creek, Aguacate, Santa Cruz, Pueblo Viejo, San Jose, Na-Luum Ca and Laguna Village. They join Maya Centre, Seine Bight and Hopkins in Stann Creek, bringing the total number of participating communities to 15.
Speaking on behalf of the signing communities, Laguna Village community leader Rosa Mis said, “We chose to participate and to collaborate on practical avenues for our people. Development should not simply happen around a community, but must actively include our men, women and youths.”
Minister of Rural Transformation, Community Development and Local Government Oscar Requena said the initiative aligns with the country’s rural development strategy and stressed the importance of turning community development plans into action.
The four-year PROSPER project, implemented by the ILO in partnership with the Government of Belize, will provide support for technical and entrepreneurial training, business development, mentorship, market access and financial services.
ILO Deputy Director Thomas Kring said the project aims to translate local priorities into “skills and resilient livelihoods, stronger enterprises, better access to markets and ultimately, decent work,” particularly for women and young people.
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By Zoila Palma: Twelve communities in the Toledo District have formally partnered with the Government of Belize and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to advance the next phase of the European Union-funded PROSPER Project, aimed at promoting locally driven economic development. The commitments were formalized during a ceremony in Punta Gorda on September 24, where
The post 12 Toledo Communities sign on to advance next phase of EU-funded PROSPER Project appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
