By Zoila Palma: On May 16, 2026, Director of the Climate Finance Unit, Leroy Martinez, delivered remarks on behalf of Minister Dr. Osmond Martinez during the launch of two community projects in Punta Gorda aimed at strengthening Indigenous livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting sustainable practices.
The first initiative, “Crafting Resilience: Preserving Cultural Heritage and Improving Livelihoods,” is being led by Home of Indigenous Arts Belize Limited and will support 40 Indigenous Maya artisans. The project will provide training, climate-smart reforestation activities, improved access to modern equipment, and skills development opportunities designed to strengthen economic opportunities while preserving Maya traditions and craftsmanship.
The second project, “Reviving Maya Agroecology through Maya Women and Children,” is being implemented by SATIIM. The initiative focuses on preserving traditional agricultural knowledge through workshops, youth summer camps, seed exchanges, and training in value-added production.
During the event, Martinez congratulated the recipients and reaffirmed the Ministry of Economic Transformation’s support for both initiatives, noting their economic and cultural importance.
The projects are funded through the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme.
Representatives from United Nations Development Programme, including Resident Representative Kishan Khoday and Deputy Representative Michael Lund, attended the launch alongside members of the National Steering Committee.
The event concluded with visits to Xe’il Belize and the Home of Indigenous Arts Belize Limited, where locally made clothing and authentic Indigenous crafts were showcased.
The post Ministry of Economic Transformation launches 2 Community projects in Punta Gorda to support Maya Culture and Livelihoods appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: On May 16, 2026, Director of the Climate Finance Unit, Leroy Martinez, delivered remarks on behalf of Minister Dr. Osmond Martinez during the launch of two community projects in Punta Gorda aimed at strengthening Indigenous livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting sustainable practices. The first initiative, “Crafting Resilience: Preserving Cultural Heritage and
The post Ministry of Economic Transformation launches 2 Community projects in Punta Gorda to support Maya Culture and Livelihoods appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
