© FAO/David Diaz Arcos

The Ministry of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management (MBEDRM), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has rolled out a new initiative designed to bolster the resilience of Belize's coastal zones and fisheries sector. The project, titled "Community Engagement of the Coastal Zone and Fisheries Sector Through Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Capacity Building," is funded under the FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) with a budget of USD $200,000.

Belize faces significant risks from natural disasters, especially those intensified by climate change, including hurricanes, droughts, and pest outbreaks. With 57% of the population residing within 25 miles of the coastline—where much of the country's infrastructure and communities are situated—there is a critical need to enhance resilience in these vulnerable areas.

The project seeks to mitigate these risks by strengthening disaster risk management, improving livelihoods, and raising awareness about climate change adaptation in key coastal communities. Four pilot communities, selected for their heightened vulnerability to climate impacts, will serve as the starting point for this initiative, with plans to extend the project to the remaining 27 coastal fishing communities in Belize.

The initiative is focused on three primary objectives:
1. Implementing a comprehensive engagement strategy to build the capacity of national and local stakeholders in climate change adaptation and disaster risk management.
2. Developing community-specific CCA and DRM plans for coastal fishing areas.
3. Creating educational resources aimed at improving financial literacy and promoting climate-resilient livelihoods among fisherfolk.

This project underscores the ongoing dedication to sustainable development and the protection of Belize's coastal zones and fisheries sector, as the nation continues to confront the escalating challenges posed by climate change."Belize Launches Coastal Resilience Project to Strengthen Fisheries Sector Against Climate Change"