Cooperatives lead the way: Belize hosts transformational forum on International Day of Cooperatives Friday

Posted: Thursday, July 3, 2025. 6:28 pm CST.

Photo Credit: Department of Cooperatives

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: With a vibrant pulse of unity and ambition, the Department of Cooperatives in the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE) is set to observe the International Day of Cooperatives this Friday, July 4, by hosting a national forum under the global theme: “Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World.” The event, to be held at the elegant Grand Resort & Residences Belize, will convene cooperative leaders, innovators, and policymakers to explore how shared values and collective action can forge a resilient Belizean future.

What’s on the Agenda?
Throughout the day, attendees will hear from grassroots cooperative leaders and national officials who will highlight how cooperatives are tackling real-world challenges—from food security and climate adaptation to inclusive finance and digital innovation. Each presentation will show the powerful role that people-centered enterprise plays in building resilient communities.

Voices That Drive Change

The morning presentations will feature a diverse lineup of regional and national experts:

• Dra. Ana Touza, FAO Regional Representative for the Bahamas, Belize, and Jamaica, will outline FAO policies and programs that support cooperatives, emphasizing food systems transformation and rural empowerment.
• Mr. Sheldon Salino of Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies will trace the history of cooperatives in the Caribbean, offering context for today’s movement.
• Mr. Juan Moreno Belmar, President of PROCASUR, will explore the benefits of grassroots organization in building resilient collective enterprises.
• Mr. Ishmael Quiroz, Executive Director of BELTRAIDE, will present on MSME support initiatives, highlighting tools and incentives available to cooperatives.
• Mr. Lincoln Blake, Director of the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU), will speak on government support to cooperatives.
• Mrs. Sandra Perez, Chief Lending Officer at the DFC, will introduce financial products and services tailored to cooperative development.

Afternoon Insights
The afternoon resumes with two key presentations:

• Dr. Stephen Williams of IICA will discuss creating opportunities to support alternative livelihoods, focusing on rural innovation and sustainability.
• Ms. Debbie Alfaro, Project Manager of the Sustainable and Inclusive Belize (SAIB) Project, will share updates on inclusive development initiatives that align with cooperative values.

Looking Ahead 

The forum aims to spark collaboration, generate policy recommendations, and inspire renewed commitment to cooperative values. As Belize positions itself as a champion for inclusive development, this Friday’s gathering is poised to be a pivotal moment for the local and regional cooperative movement.

 

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The post Cooperatives lead the way: Belize hosts transformational forum on International Day of Cooperatives Friday appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.

Posted: Thursday, July 3, 2025. 6:28 pm CST. Photo Credit: Department of Cooperatives By Rubén Morales Iglesias: With a vibrant pulse of unity and ambition, the
The post Cooperatives lead the way: Belize hosts transformational forum on International Day of Cooperatives Friday appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.