August 7, 2024 - Channel 5 Belize

Boosting Agriculture Through Real-time Weather Data

Today, the Ministry of Economic Development, through its Resilient Rural Belize Program, handed over ninety-three thousand U.S. dollars’ worth of equipment to the National Meteorological Service. The donation will enhance the work of the Agrometeorological Section, allowing them to provide real-time weather information to rural farmers. News Five’s Britney Gordon was there to learn how the equipment will be used to assist the farmers.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

Over the past few months, Belizeans have endured a spike in the cost of fruits and vegetables. This increase in price was due, in part, to the climate-related damages farmers have been struggling to manage. Now, with help of the National Meteorological Service, farmers will be able to better monitor weather conditions and plan accordingly to preserve their stock. Today, an array of equipment was donated to the NMS by the Ministry of Economic Development for this purpose. Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon explains this strategy.

Ronald Gordon, Chief Meteorologist, MET

“In this particular case for twenty weather stations across the country, we have a network of over eighty weather stations but these are targeted to certain specific communities under the RRB project. So what that will do, it will enhance the capability of these stations to monitor what we call agri-med variables. Those are variables that are important for the agricultural sector, including rainfall, of course, temperature, humidity. They want to know the soil moisture and the soil temperature. And just to name a few, once you have that information, farmers will be able to plant better and be able to know what type of weather conditions are occurring in their areas.”

According to Acting C.E.O. of the Ministry of Economic Development Carlos Pol, this project was put together with the objective of addressing food insecurity. By assisting farmers with preserving their produce, the public will have access to more food at lower prices.

Carlos Pol, Acting C.E.O., Ministry of Economic Development

“So in that thinking, the government decided to put together a project that will help us with that security, addressing the farmers needs, addressing the needs of farmers to be able to remove their products from their location to the market. So this project encompasses that rehabilitation of food, assistance of farmers for them to protect their products, provide them with refrigerators and other outputs that will be able for them to store their products because we have seen how much farmers have lost in products. There’s a lot of losses. When they don’t have the proper equipment or the proper tools for them to be able to have their products and then move it to the market for it to be sold.”

The MET service will also be launching a weather app meant to offer real-time data for farmers. They will also be able to access for other risk such as pesticides and potential tropical systems.

Andre Perez, Minister of Disaster Risk Management

“If you look at the figures right now, especially the SIB reports came out for the month of June, that the price of special fruits and vegetables was very well substantial, substantially higher than last year, June. So there are many causes for that as well. But the type of services that the MET service offers is to offer information to the farmers so they can be more informed to plan when it’s time to plant when it’s the best time to plant, when it’s not the best time to plant, especially during dry season. But also, we’re talking about efficiency in terms of production. And of course, in any way to become more efficient and reducing costs because the agriculture is always something that is high risk. You have all the different risk factors coming in, not only weather, but pests and all of these things. So this is what the Met Service is offering today, especially geared to the rural farmers.”

Britney Gordon for News Five.

Is the MET Service Understaffed?

Minister of Disaster Risk Management, Andre Perez emphasizes the importance of the National Meteorological Service which provides essential information to the public throughout the course of the day. Meteorologists are tasked with managing multiple stations, working odd hours and even holidays. This raises the question of whether the MET Service is adequately staffed to manage the duties or not. Here’s Perez’s response.

Andre Perez, Minister of Disaster Risk Management

“We have done a lot of changes right now. Since the service came on disasters management has passed with us. We have already increased the staff more needs to be done. Of course, we need, we understand that we have meetings with our C.E.O. and with the chief met and of course creating a department where they are the financial officer, the accounting officer, which they did not have. It was only one ministry at the time. So eventually this is becoming more efficient. And what the chief mentioned about increase of staff, certainly we’re looking at that as well, no? But of course, we always have to watch our budget as well. But I think right now what we’re doing is sensitizing and showing to the public the importance of the MET service, the valuable information is being shared. That is very critical. And I want to recognize that the staff here, that they do the work. It’s as the chief mentioned, even on Christmas Day, they’re working as well. You have a lot of different people, doctors and so working. The MET service also is at work, even during the holidays.”

ComPol Says Pastor Dozie Must Still File a Police Report Against O.J.

Earlier this year, a pastor from Dangriga made a complaint against attorney, Orson Elrington to the General Legal Council. The allegation of grave professional misconduct for the way he handled а Social Security Board claim and settlement for the pastor was brought before the G.L.C. In July, the Council ruled that Elrington must pay the complainant, Pastor Dozie, over forty-six thousand dollars and fifteen thousand dollars to the Registrar. The G.L.C had indicated that it would forward to the police a suspicion of forgery of documents. On Tuesday, Police Commissioner, Chester Williams clarified that the pastor still needs to file a report with the police.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“Even if the G.L.C would refer the matter to us, we’d still need to get a statement from the virtual complainant. The G.L.C cannot be the complainant in the particular matter, especially if they’re alleging that the signature forged was that of Pastor Dozie. We need to get statements from him and specific signatures from him so that it can be compared to ascertain if the signature that G.L.C believes was forged was actually forged.”

San Pedro and Caye Caulker General Hospital Underway

The work has begun for the construction of the San Pedro and Caye Caulker General Hospital. For years, residents of the islands were airlifted to the mainland to receive intensive medical treatment, but they will soon be able to do so on the island. The thirty-three-million-dollar project is being funded by the Republic of China, Taiwan. We spoke with Area Representative and Minister of Disaster Risk Management, Andre Perez for an update.

Andre Perez, Minister of Disaster Risk Management

“I believe of course the work has started; the piles are being driven in. And I think they are doing an average of fifteen piles per day, and a total of one hundred and ninety eight piles will be driven. So everything is in set, the construction has started, and everything is on pace right now that we’re setting up. We’re close crossing our fingers that it’s going to last thirty-six months. So yes, it’s ongoing, and every now and again we do an inspection. And of course, the contractor is keeping the abreast, so we’re very excited about that one.”

$1 Million Vanishes from Belize Solid Waste Management Authority

The Belize Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change announced on Tuesday that an investigation into alleged financial misconduct at the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority was underway. Reports suggest that approximately one million dollars is missing.

Minister of Sustainable Development, Orlando Habet, has briefed the Cabinet on the matter.

The ministry issued a press release confirming that the Belize Police Department is conducting an investigation. The ministry says that it is withholding details of the case to avoid compromising the investigation.

The Ministry of the Public Service has been notified and will oversee any necessary disciplinary actions. It is reported that a key figure in the ministry has been placed on administrative leave.

Belizean Woman Allegedly Killed by Father in the U.S.

Belizean, 25-year-old Marbella Martinez is believed to have been killed by her father, 54-year-old Hector Martinez-Ayala.

The Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office announced on Monday that the death of Deputy Marbella Martinez is being investigated as suspicious. Martinez, a corrections officer, was found deceased on Thursday, Aug. 1, and the Tooele Police Department is leading the investigation, according to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office.

Martinez’s mother, Barbara Jimenez, told US media outlets that Martinez had a disagreement with her father on July 30. The next day, Marbella mentioned feeling unwell and intended to call in sick for work.

“The last message I received from her was around 2 p.m.,” said Jimenez, who resides in Belize but maintained daily contact with Martinez. Concerned after losing contact, Jimenez reached out to her ex-husband, who initially claimed Marbella was at work, then began avoiding her messages. “He said he was busy and would call me back later. Then he said he was busy feeding his cats and dogs,” recounted Jimenez.

Unable to reach either Martinez or her ex-husband, Jimenez contacted Hector’s brother in Salt Lake County, who promised to check on them. He found the house locked, and soon after, police discovered Martinez deceased in her bedroom, with no sign of her father.

“We know he killed her,” Jimenez stated, expressing her belief that Martinez-Ayala, known for his temper, was responsible. “I just want justice for my daughter. She was beautiful and kind and had the rest of her life to live.”

No gunshots or suspicious activities were reported prior to her discovery. “There are some details we can’t disclose right now, but there were signs to any well-trained detective of what likely occurred,” said Corporal Bentley, indicating they await test results to determine the cause of death.

Marbella’s death is under investigation as suspicious, with her father named a person of interest. “He’s not in custody at this time. We’re working with federal and state agencies to locate him,” said Bentley, noting a possibility that Hector may have fled the country.

“Deputy Martinez was a dedicated and beloved member of our team. Her untimely and tragic death is a profound loss for us all,” stated Sheriff Rosie Rivera. Deputy Martinez joined the Sheriff’s Office on January 11, 2024, as a Corrections Officer, demonstrating a strong commitment to her community in her brief tenure.

Belizean Powerlifter Amorette Banman Wins Gold at North American Powerlifting Championships

16-year-old Amorette Banman has made history for Belize at the 21st North American Powerlifting Championships. Competing in the 63kg weight class for sub juniors for ages 14 to 19, Banman outshone her competitors, including those from the USA, to secure gold medals in three categories: Squats, Deadlifts, and Overall. Additionally, she earned a silver medal in Bench Press.

This makes it a historic milestone for Belize as Banman becomes the first female Junior powerlifter from Belize to win a gold medal at a regional powerlifting event.

In a country where sports like powerlifting might not always take centre stage, Banman’s success reflects immense discipline, dedication, and sacrifice.

Minister Criticizes Media Handling on 15-Year-Old American Shark Attack

On Tuesday morning, a 15-year-old American sustained severe injuries in a shark attack between Hot Caye and Halfmoon Caye. The incident occurred after Annabelle Carlson, who was participating in a diving excursion with Belize Dive Pro, re-entered the water post-dive.

In a statement to News 5, Minister of Blue Economy Andre Perez confirmed that the victim is alive but noted that the extent of the injuries is still unknown. “We’re being informed that the victim is okay, is alive, made it. What is the magnitude of the damage, we don’t know as yet,” Perez said.

Gruesome pictures of the attack made it on social media.

Perez condemned the media for their “inconsiderate” handling of the incident. “I think the only part that I must call out and condemn it in the strongest of terms, is the way certain members of the media handled it. I’m not accusing everyone but I think that the responsibility of the media is very important because we’re talking about a family that’s hurt right now, and you don’t want to add any more injury to them. I think that’s a disservice,” he remarked.

Addressing concerns from tourists about safety, Perez emphasised the rarity of such incidents. “This is a very rare case, while we are saddened about it, we look at the facts. For the past 30 years, as such we have never had any kind of, this type of accident… There’s nothing to be worrying about,” he assured.

Benque Fiesta 2024 Flops, Thousands of Dollars in Losses

The Benque Viejo Town Council is reporting a loss of $58,192 for its recently held Benque Fiesta. The Council spent $177,223.65 and made a total income of $119,031.56.

In a Facebook post, the council said, “It is a real shame at the significant loss that has occurred during the recent fair, Benque Fiesta 2024. Despite hard-worked efforts and planning, it has resulted in considerable waste of resources.” The Council added that Hurricane Beryl, along with the lack of support from the town residents, impacted the success of the ‘fiesta’.

It said, “The primary causes of the loss were Hurricane Beryl and unexpected bad weather. Additionally, the support from the community for the events was not as anticipated. Lack of support for administrative events does not harm the administration but rather the people of Benque, as these events are designed to benefit the community.”

It said that next year’s fair will be managed differently.

Belize’s Leo Matura Wins Bronze at Powerlifting Championship

Belizean powerlifter Leo Matura has secured two bronze medals at the 21st Annual North American Powerlifting (NAPF) Championship. Competing in the Men’s Open Division 74kg weight class, Matura achieved notable success with third-place finishes in both the bench press and deadlift categories.

At 33 years old and in his third year of competition, Matura’s performance stood out as he lifted a combined total of 630 kg to 650 kg. In addition to his bronze medals, Matura also received a participation medal.

The event featured 362 athletes from across the Americas. Matura’s competed against participants from the USA, Canada, Trinidad & Tobago, Mexico, Panama, Jamaica, and the US Virgin Islands.

Kinetic Health and Fitness praised Matura’s performance on social media, noting his impressive results in a tight competition.

Five more Belizean athletes will be competing as the championship progresses until Saturday.