The National Hurricane Centre issued a tropical weather outlook for multiple systems across the Atlantic this morning. In the northwestern Gulf of Mexico, a weak area of low pressure near the Texas coast continues to generate disorganised showers, with a low 10 percent chance of further development.
Moreover, a tropical wave near the Lesser Antilles and Puerto Rico is producing thunderstorms and gusty winds. Environmental conditions are anticipated to improve, raising the chance of development to 40 percent by late this week as the system moves towards the western Caribbean and southwestern Gulf of Mexico.
Additionally, a separate tropical wave shows signs of increased development. Forecasts suggest a 40 percent chance of formation as it drifts west-northwest, potentially affecting the Cabo Verde Islands with heavy rain and gusty winds in the coming days.
In Belize, the National Meteorological Service reports sunny skies today with a few cloudy spells. Tonight, skies will be partly cloudy, with generally isolated showers or thunderstorms expected. However, a few more storms may develop over inland areas during the afternoon or evening hours.
Summer vacation is officially over, and students across the nation are dusting off their backpacks and flooding back the classrooms as they enter a new academic year. In many districts, the first day of school featured a blend of excitement and anticipation. For many young students, this means reuniting with friends and meeting new teachers.
On social media, parents are sharing photos of their children heading back to school today. The images capture a range of emotions from excited smiles to nervous farewells as kids prepare for a new academic year.
For many parents, the return to school means a hectic adjustment period as they juggle new schedules and extracurricular activities. Amid the buzz of the new school year, there’s an important health consideration that parents and caregivers need to address: the increased risk of illness as classrooms become crowded once again.
Health experts advise that enhanced health protocols are crucial during this time. Parents are encouraged to focus on improving sanitation practices at home and to emphasise the importance of frequent handwashing for their children. These measures are vital in minimising the spread of germs and ensuring a healthier start to the school year.
Belize has officially entered its 43rd September season as the national flag was raised across the country on Sunday, September 1. The ceremony, held in honour of Belize’s independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981, is an annual powerful reminder of the country’s sovereignty and unity.
The flag-raising ceremony, which took place nationwide, showcased Belize’s unique azure flag with red stripes and a central white circle featuring the Coat of Arms. The design, created by Everal Waight and Inéz Sánchez, remains notable as it is the only national flag in the world depicting human figures.
In his 1981 proclamation, Prime Minister George Price declared the flag a “pledge of national unity” and a sign of Belize’s dedication to “preserve and promote peace, stability, and prosperity.”
Carnival Mas Bands lit up the Belize City Civic Centre on Saturday night, competing for the King and Queen titles in the Junior and Senior categories in jaw-dropping and vibrant carnival costumes.
Five Mas Bands competed in the Junior Carnival King and Queen category, while four bands competed in the Senior division. Each group wowed the audience and the panel of judges.
The winners were revealed on Sunday via the Belize Carnival Association’s official Facebook page on Sunday. In the Junior Queen category, 14-year-old Breanney Betancourt of Jumpstreet Posse won the title. In the Junior King category, 11-year-old Neil Hamilton of Soca Massive took first place.
In the senior divisions, the title of senior Queen was captured by Jahnecia Marsden of Soca Moca, portraying the Queen of Victory. Meanwhile, the Senior King title was reclaimed by Shakeel Flowers of Belizean Jewels. Flowers, at 32, also won the Senior King title last year.
Honduras announced last week that it will terminate its century-old extradition treaty with the United States following concerns expressed by Washington over a recent meeting between Honduran and Venezuelan defense officials. In a letter shared on social media by Foreign Minister Enrique Reina, the Honduran foreign ministry communicated its decision to end the treaty.
Earlier in the day, Honduran President Xiomara Castro ordered the denunciation of the treaty and accused the U.S. of interfering in Honduras’ internal affairs. “The interference and interventionism of the United States, as well as its attempts to influence Honduran politics through its embassy and other representatives, are unacceptable,” Castro wrote on social media.
The U.S. embassy in Honduras has yet to respond to the announcement.
U.S. Ambassador to Honduras, Laura Dogu, had expressed concern about a meeting last week between Honduran Defense Minister Jose Manuel Zelaya and Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino. Dogu, who was also surprised by the presence of the Honduran military joint chiefs of staff, criticized the meeting due to Padrino’s 2020 indictment by the U.S. on drug trafficking charges.
In response, Reina denounced the U.S. for what he perceived as an attack on Honduran sovereignty and independence. “Suggesting or implying that we are involved with drug traffickers and discrediting our authorities is a direct threat to our sovereignty,” Reina stated on social media.
Honduras has been a close ally of Venezuela’s socialist government. The extradition treaty, which has facilitated the extradition of high-profile Hondurans such as former President Juan Orlando Hernandez and former Police Chief Juan Carlos Bonilla, will now be nullified. Hernandez, once a U.S. ally, was extradited to the U.S. after Castro assumed office in 2022 and has since been convicted and sentenced on drug trafficking charges.
On Friday, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Government of Belize finalised major funding agreements during the Third High-Level Dialogue of the Regional Climate Change Platform of Finance and Economy Ministries in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. The agreements, signed by IDB Executive Vice President Jordan Schwartz and Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño, involve substantial loans and grants aimed at transforming urban infrastructure and healthcare services in Belize.
The IDB is providing US$10 million in funding for a sustainable urban development program designed to upgrade infrastructure and improve urban services in northern Belize, including the municipalities of Orange Walk, Corozal, and San Pedro. This program is expected to benefit approximately 40,000 residents and includes an additional US$2.5 million in non-reimbursable funds.
The IDB has allocated US$17.36 million to a healthcare initiative. This includes a US$7 million loan from the IDB, a US$7 million loan from the Korean Infrastructure Development Co-Financing Facility for Latin America and the Caribbean, and US$3.36 million in non-reimbursable financing from the IDB Grant Migration Facility. The program will serve around 300,000 people, including 37,000 migrants and 42,000 indigenous individuals. It aims to bolster the Primary Healthcare model, focusing on reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health, as well as noncommunicable diseases, emergency services, and surgeries. Additionally, it will address gender-based violence and mental health issues.
Prime Minister Briceño highlighted the significance of these agreements, stating, “These new partnerships with the IDB represent vital steps in our Government’s development strategy. Investments in healthcare and urban development will enhance the quality of life for our citizens and contribute to a healthier and more prosperous Belize.”
The funding approvals followed endorsements by the IDB Board of Directors in May and June 2024, and by the National Assembly of Belize in July 2024. These initiatives are set to play a crucial role in Belize’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and healthcare services across the nation.
As September marks Sickle Cell Awareness Month, it’s an important time to deepen understanding of sickle cell disease (SCD). This article aims to shed light on the causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of SCD, helping to raise awareness and support for those affected.
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects the haemoglobin in red blood cells. Haemoglobin is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. In individuals with SCD, the haemoglobin is abnormal, leading red blood cells to become rigid and shaped like a crescent or sickle, instead of the typical disc shape. These sickle-shaped cells can block blood flow in small blood vessels, causing pain and other serious complications.
Causes
SCD is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, which provides instructions for making hemoglobin. This genetic mutation leads to the production of abnormal haemoglobin known as haemoglobin S. SCD is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a child must receive two copies of the mutated gene—one from each parent—to develop the disease. If a child inherits only one copy of the mutated gene, they become a carrier of the disease (sickle cell trait) but typically do not show symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of sickle cell disease can vary widely among individuals but often include:
– Pain Crises: Episodes of severe pain, known as sickle cell crises, occur when sickle-shaped cells block blood flow in the body.
Anaemia: The destruction of sickle cells can lead to a shortage of red blood cells, causing fatigue, weakness, and pallor.
– Swelling: Painful swelling in the hands and feet, known as dactylitis or hand-foot syndrome, is common in infants and young children with SCD.
– Frequent Infections: Sickle cell disease can damage the spleen, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
– Delayed Growth: Children with SCD may experience delayed growth and development due to anaemia and other complications.
– Vision Problems: Blocked blood flow to the eyes can cause vision problems and even blindness.
Diagnosis
Sickle cell disease is often diagnosed through newborn screening, which is routinely performed in many countries, including the United States. The screening tests for the presence of haemoglobin S in the blood. For those who are not diagnosed at birth, further diagnostic tests, such as haemoglobin electrophoresis, can confirm the presence of sickle cell disease.
Treatment
While there is currently no universal cure for SCD, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
– Pain Management: Pain relief is a key component of SCD treatment, often involving medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or opioids during severe pain crises.
– Hydroxyurea: This medication can reduce the frequency of pain crises and the need for blood transfusions by increasing the production of foetal haemoglobin, which does not sickle.
– Blood Transfusions: Regular blood transfusions can help prevent complications such as stroke and reduce anaemia by providing healthy red blood cells.
-Bone Marrow Transplant: For some individuals, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may offer a potential cure, though it is not suitable for everyone and involves significant risks.
– Preventive Care: Regular check-ups with healthcare providers, vaccinations, and antibiotics can help manage and prevent complications associated with SCD.
Living with Sickle Cell Disease
Living with sickle cell disease requires ongoing medical care and support. Patients often work with a team of healthcare professionals, including haematologists, pain specialists, and primary care physicians, to manage their condition. Support from family, friends, and patient organisations also plays a crucial role in coping with the challenges of SCD.
Raising Awareness
Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September provides an opportunity to increase understanding and support for individuals living with SCD. Education about the disease, its impact, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for those affected.
On Thursday, August 29, 2024, the Human Trafficking Institute (HTI), in collaboration with the Anti-Trafficking in Persons (ATIPs) Council of the Government of Belize, hosted the Trafficking in Persons Leadership Summit. This event is part of a CARSI grant project titled “A TIPPING POINT 2.0,” awarded to HTI in September 2022. The summit aimed to enhance best practices in Belize’s anti-trafficking efforts and to foster collaboration and coordination across various government ministries and departments. It provided an opportunity to reflect on global best practices and common challenges in addressing human trafficking.
The agenda covered several key topics, including: best practices for government leadership on trafficking in persons, the situation of trafficking in Belize, trafficking in the Caribbean and Latin America, and effective strategies for working with victims of trafficking. The summit concluded with a joint SWOT analysis by the leadership, which identified key action items for future progress.
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, reaffirmed the Belize Police Department’s unwavering support in combating human trafficking. He stressed the importance of using the nation’s freedom to secure the freedom of those ensnared by the invisible chains of human trafficking.
Attendees included representatives from key departments and ministries such as the Office of Public Prosecutions, the Belize Police Department and its Anti-Trafficking in Persons Police Unit, the Labour Department, the Ministry of National Defence, the Department of Local Government, and the Department of Human Services.
In a statement, CEO Adele Catzim-Sanchez of the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs highlighted that “as we move forward, let us remember that our leadership will be judged not only by the policies we implement but by the lives we transform and the injustices we eradicate.”
Margaritaville Beach Resort in Belize recently participated in the inaugural Jimmy Buffett Day of Service, an annual event launched by Margaritaville International to honour the legacy of its founder, Jimmy Buffett. On August 30th, the Belize property joined other Margaritaville locations worldwide in giving back to the community and environment through a beach cleanup initiative.
The cleanup effort took place on Ambergris Caye, covering one mile north and one mile south of the resort. It was organised in collaboration with the San Pedro Town Council and Oceana, reflecting the resort’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Belize’s coastline.
Destiny Wagner, Miss Earth Belize 2021, took part in the event, helping to highlight the importance of environmental conservation and inspire community involvement.
“Cleaning our beaches isn’t just about preserving our coastlines—it’s about protecting marine life, ensuring clean sands for future generations, and maintaining the health of our planet. Every bit of effort counts in this vital endeavour,” said Shawn Marshall, General Manager at Margaritaville Beach Resort, Belize. “This event reflected our dedication to sustainability and community engagement, values that are at the heart of Margaritaville.”
Ramon Vasquez, Chairman and CEO of Belize Broadcasting Network (BBN), withdrew as the United Democratic Party (UDP) standard bearer for Belize Rural South in the upcoming General Elections to preserve the station’s neutrality. However, Vasquez was recently seen supporting the People’s United Party (PUP) at an endorsement convention in Orange Walk.
He was seen holding signs, supporting Prime Minister John Briceño and Orange Walk East Area Representative, Kevin Bernard. This comes days after Vasquez withdrew his candidacy from the U.D.P.
In a statement, he explained that the decision followed “extensive discussions with the board of directors” at BBN. The statement emphasised that the move was made to maintain the television station’s “identity, neutrality, and independence.”
