Cabinet Reviews Hurricane Preparedness and Approves Key National Initiatives

Cabinet met on Tuesday and addressed a range of pressing national matters, including disaster preparedness, immigration, youth employment, and digital infrastructure development.

A major focus of the meeting was Belize’s readiness for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Cabinet was briefed by the Chief Meteorologist and the Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) on emergency response strategies. The briefing outlined a framework for rapid disaster response using local, national, and international resources. This effort builds on the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan, which Cabinet approved on April 15, 2025.

Cabinet also endorsed a joint proposal by NEMO, the National Meteorological Service, and the National Hydrological Service to host a media training workshop on May 28, 2025. This training aims to strengthen communication between the national emergency system and the media to ensure the public receives timely and accurate early warnings.

The National Disaster Preparedness and Response Advisory Committee (NDPRAC) will convene on May 29, 2025, to further guide emergency preparedness and advise the Prime Minister on disaster risk management strategies.

In other decisions:

Cabinet approved the creation of a Digital and IT Infrastructure Project Vetting Committee. This body will oversee standards, risk management, and alignment with national digital strategies, ensuring efficient and secure digital development across the public sector.

Cabinet extended the Amnesty 2016 qualifying criteria to include individuals who can prove continuous residence in Belize up to December 31, 2019, opening the door for more individuals to qualify for residency.

Cabinet gave full backing to the 2025 Summer Internship Program, which will provide short-term employment opportunities to students from third form through junior college. The initiative is coordinated by the Ministry of the Public Service, with applications due by May 30, 2025.