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Spellbinding Total Solar Eclipse in 6 Days

The next total solar eclipse to visit North America will be on April 8, 2024. The duration of totality will be up to 4 minutes and 27 seconds, almost double that of The Great American Eclipse of August 21, 2017.

As the total solar eclipse traverses Mexico, the United States, and Canada, spectators are in for a breathtaking experience.

*Map of April 8 Total Solar Eclipse 2024*

During a total solar eclipse, the moon entirely obscures the sun’s face for a brief yet mesmerising period called totality. This historic celestial event warrants pausing to appreciate its significance. After April, a total solar eclipse won’t be visible across the contiguous US until August 2044. Similarly, an annular eclipse, where the moon doesn’t fully cover the sun, won’t occur in this region until 2046.

Outside the path of totality, observers will witness a crescent-shaped partial eclipse as the highlight of the event.

*Boy watching annular solar eclipse on Saturday, October 14 2023*

The upcoming eclipse’s totality phase is projected to be longer than that of 2017, owing to the moon’s current proximity to the sun. Individuals positioned directly along the path’s centerline can anticipate a total eclipse lasting between 3½ and 4 minutes, according to NASA.

The corona, the sun’s scorching outer atmosphere, emits a radiant glow visible around the moon during the eclipse. Typically elusive due to the sun’s overpowering brilliance, the corona during totality manifests as luminous white tendrils, as described by NASA.

The total phase of this solar eclipse is not visible in Belize City, but it can be observed there as a partial solar eclipse. The partial solar eclipse which will begin 11:18:23. The moment the edge of the Moon touches the edge of the Sun is called first contact. The partial eclipse will end 13:44:30.

Boy lays on ground watching annular solar eclipse on Saturday, October 14 2023

Eye Safety for Total Solar Eclipses

Here are some important safety guidelines to follow during a total solar eclipse.

View the Sun through eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer during the partial eclipse phases before and after totality.
You can view the eclipse directly without proper eye protection only when the Moon completely obscures the Sun’s bright face – during the brief and spectacular period known as totality. (You’ll know it’s safe when you can no longer see any part of the Sun through eclipse glasses or a solar viewer.)
As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright Sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the Sun.

An eclipse projector is an easy and safe way to view the eclipsed Sun. NASA

Do NOT use eclipse glasses or handheld viewers with cameras, binoculars, or telescopes. Those require different types of solar filters. When viewing a partial or annular eclipse through cameras, binoculars, or telescopes equipped with proper solar filters, you do not need to wear eclipse glasses. (The solar filters do the same job as the eclipse glasses to protect your eyes.) Seek expert advice from an astronomer before using a solar filter with a camera, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device. Note that solar filters must be attached to the front of any telescope, binoculars, camera lens, or other optics.

Dengue Cases Increasing in the Caribbean

Washington, DC, March 28, 2024 (PAHO)- The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) today warned about the surge in dengue cases in the Americas. As of March 26, 2024, over 3.5 million cases and more than 1,000 deaths have been reported in the region.

“This is cause for concern, as it represents three times more cases than those reported for the same period in 2023, a record year with more than 4.5 million cases reported in the region,” PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa said during a press briefing.

While dengue is on the rise throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, the hardest-hit countries are Brazil (83%), Paraguay (5.3%), and Argentina (3.7%), which account for 92% of cases and 87% of deaths. This increase is attributed to the higher transmission season in the southern hemisphere, when the Aedes aegypti mosquito vector of dengue thrives due to warm and rainy weather.

However, Dr. Barbosa cautioned that “we are also seeing an uptick in cases in countries such as Barbados, Costa Rica, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique and Mexico, where transmission is usually higher in the second half of the year.”

The PAHO Director also noted the presence of the mosquito vector and cases in new geographical areas, raising concerns that some countries may not be prepared to face an increase in transmission.

Several environmental and social factors contribute to the spread of dengue, including rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and the El Niño phenomenon. Rapid population growth and unplanned urbanization also play a crucial role: poor housing conditions and inadequate water and sanitation services create mosquito breeding sites through discarded objects that can collect water.

PAHO maintains a rigorous surveillance of dengue in the region and has issued nine epidemiological alerts in the past 12 months, providing essential guidance to Member States on disease prevention and control.
The presence of all four dengue serotypes in the region increases the risk of epidemics and severe forms of the disease. The simultaneous circulation of two or more dengue serotypes has been observed in 21 countries and territories of the Americas.

Dr. Barbosa emphasized the importance of taking prompt action to prevent and control dengue transmission and avoid deaths, noting that “despite the record increase in cases in 2023, the dengue case fatality rate in the region remained below 0.05%.” This, he noted, “is very encouraging, considering the spikes in cases we have seen since then.”

This accomplishment has been possible thanks to PAHO’s support to countries since 2010 through a comprehensive strategy to control dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases. This strategy includes strengthening surveillance, early diagnosis, and timely treatment, and has contributed significantly to saving thousands of lives.

The PAHO Director called for action, urging intensified efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and protect against mosquito bites, increase preparedness in health services for early diagnosis and timely clinical management, and continuous work to educate the population about dengue symptoms and when to seek prompt medical attention.

“Facing the dengue problem is a task for all sectors of society,” Dr. Barbosa said, calling for “community engagement in order to succeed in our efforts.”

This unpleasant virus is spread through mosquito bites; it’s usually mild but it can be fatal. Symptoms include a fever, a severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea and a rash.

World Autism Awareness Day

In 2007, the United Nations (UN) designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day, aligning with its mission to advance equal rights and opportunities worldwide.

This day serves as a platform to foster appreciation for and honour individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Autism, a neurological condition, typically emerges in early childhood and transcends gender and race. ASD manifests diversely among individuals, impacting learning approaches and social interactions. Unfortunately, misconceptions often lead to discrimination against those with autism, hindering their access to opportunities.

Educators play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity by dispelling myths and providing accurate information about autism. Throughout the month, organisations like Autism Belize will be focusing on sharing stories, providing opportunities to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism, and fostering support.

Belize Delegation Holds Talks with Tren Maya Officials in Mexico

A delegation led by Ambassadors of Investment Jaime Briceño and Haisam Diab, alongside Belize’s Ambassador to Mexico Oscar Arnold, convened with representatives from Mexico’s Tren Maya Railway Project.

The meeting took place at the Teya Tren Maya Station in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, on March 25.

The delegation engaged with Carlos Imanol Belausteguigoitia, Mexico’s Director General for Central America and Caribbean, along with officials from Mexico’s Secretary of National Defense (SEDENA). Among them were Brigadier General D.E.M. Germán Redondo Suárez, in charge of Corporate and Commercial Strategy Development for Tren Maya, and Lieutenant Colonel Jair Garcia Pineda, overseeing Social Communication at Tren Maya.

Key discussions revolved around the potential establishment of a station at Belize’s Northern Border with Mexico, facilitating passenger and freight services between Belize and southern Mexico.

This initiative also grants access to Mexico’s Interoceanic Railway, a pivotal route connecting major port cities on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Mexico’s Government has entrusted its military with the construction and management of Tren Maya routes to ensure competitive pricing and project security. Five out of seven routes have been completed, with the Chetumal to Cancún route slated for June-July 2024.

Ecuador’s youngest mayor shot dead

The youngest mayor of Ecuador, 27-year-old Brigitte García, and her communications director, Jairo Loor, were found shot dead Sunday morning. García, who served as the mayor of San Vicente, a small coastal city, was discovered in what appeared to be a rental car, alongside Loor, both having sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Initial investigations indicate that the shots were fired from within the vehicle. The Ecuadorian Ministry of Government characterized the occurrence as a “criminal action”. No specific individual or group has been implicated in the killings.

Ecuador has been confronting a surge in violence perpetrated by armed gangs. In January, the nation declared a state of emergency following the escape of notorious gang leader José Adolfo Macías, also known as ‘Fito’, from a prison in Guayaquil. President Daniel Noboa subsequently declared an “internal armed conflict” and ordered military operations to curb the violence, resulting in the apprehension of over 2,000 individuals within two weeks of the decree.

Reinstatement of Emergency/24-Hour Passport Service

The Ministry of Immigration announced on Tuesday the reinstatement of the emergency/24-hour passport service. The ministry says that following diligent efforts to resolve technical issues affecting the passport system, the service is now fully operational.

A release from the ministry says that effective immediately, individuals requiring urgent passport services can once again access the emergency/24-hour service.

“The Ministry apologizes for any inconvenience caused during the temporary suspension and appreciates your patience and understanding. Our priority remains providing efficient and reliable passport services to all our citizens and residents.”

Belize Becomes First Caribbean Nation to Ratify Ocean Biodiversity Agreement

Belize made history by being the first Caribbean nation to officially ratify the ocean biodiversity agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement).

The global commitment to safeguard 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 hinges greatly on the implementation of the BBNJ agreement, which spans two-thirds of the world’s oceans. This agreement is designed to promote the conservation and sustainable utilization of marine biodiversity, presenting opportunities for deep-sea research, capacity building, and the development and transfer of marine technology, particularly beneficial for small developing countries like Belize.

Belize’s ratification now sets the pace for the Caribbean’s engagement. The nation is actively collaborating with other Caribbean Community member states to raise awareness and build momentum for regional participation. A workshop in the Caribbean is scheduled for April 11 to 12, 2024, to further bolster the region’s efforts towards ratification, with Belize also slated to host a Caribbean BBNJ workshop later in the year.

Belize joins Chile and Palau to have ratified it so far. The BBNJ will “enter into force” when at least 60 countries ratify it. The agreement was opened for signature on September 20, 2023. It will be closed on September 20, 2025

Happiest Countries in the World List Shared, Belize Not on It

In the 2024 World Happiness Report, Finland clinches the title of the happiest country for the seventh consecutive year. Following closely are Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, and the Netherlands, as revealed in the annual survey released on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. This survey ranks countries based on the perceived happiness of their citizens. European nations, including Norway, Switzerland, and Luxembourg, continue to dominate the top 10.

An interesting note from the report is that the survey in Israel was conducted after the attacks on October 7, 2023, but before the subsequent escalation in the conflict.

Australia stands out as the sole non-European country in the top 10 for 2024, securing the 10th position. The United States experienced a notable decline, dropping to 23rd place from its 15th position last year.

Similarly, the United Kingdom slips one spot to 20th place compared to the previous year’s rankings.

Belize did not make the list and this may be because of a lack of data.

World’s 20 happiest countries in 2024

1. Finland

2. Denmark

3. Iceland

4. Sweden

5. Israel

6. Netherlands

7. Norway

8. Luxembourg

9. Switzerland

10. Australia

11. New Zealand

12. Costa Rica

13. Kuwait

14. Austria

15. Canada

16. Belgium

17. Ireland

18. Czechia

19. Lithuania

20. United Kingdom

At the bottom of the list

Afghanistan remains the world’s lowest-ranked country for happiness. Lebanon, Lesotho, Sierra Leone and Congo also ranked at the bottom.

SOE Declared in Southside Belize City and Certain Parts of Cayo District

A State of Emergency is being implemented in southside Belize City and specific sections of the Cayo District. Statutory Instrument 58 of 2024 states “a public emergency has arisen in the part of Belize consisting of the part of Belize City known as the Southside, and which is specified in Schedule I, and in the part of Belize known as Hattieville Area, Roaring Creek Village, Another World Area, Roaring Creek Village, and Young Bank Area, Camalote Village, all in the Cayo District.”

The SOE will remain “in force for a period not exceeding one month; but may be extended from time to time by a resolution passed by the National Assembly for further periods.”

Parts of Belize City and parts of the Cayo District in which a State of Public Emergency Exists:

1. All that area bounded on the South by George Price Highway, North by the Belize River, East by Central American Boulevard and West by Lake Independence Boulevard, including all streets and areas within.

2. All that area bounded on the East by West Collet Canal, West by Central American Boulevard, north by Cemetery Road and south by Race Course Street and North Creek, encompassing all streets within.

3. All that area bounded on the East by Central American Boulevard, North and West by George Price Highway and South by Fabers Road, encompassing all streets within.

4. All that area bounded on the East by Central American Boulevard, on the West by George Price Highway, South by by the Caribbean sea North by Fabers Road, encompassing all streets within.

5. All that area bounded by the North by Belize River, South by Cemetery Road, West by Central American Boulevard and East by Magazine Road, including all streets and area within.

6. All that area of land in Belize City bounded from Corner South Creek and Fairweather Street to corner Fairweather Street and the Caribbean Sea to the corner Kraal Road and the Caribbean Sea to the corner Caesar Ridge Road and Kraal Road up to the corner Caesar Ridge Road and Gill Street and corner Caesar Ridge Road and Central American Boulevard and South Creek, corner Central American Boulevard and South Creek to corner South Creek and Fairweather then corner Fairweather and the Caribbean Sea.

7. All that area of land known as or comprising the entire Hattieville Area, Roaring Creek, Village, Cayo District.

8. All that area of land known as or comprising the entire Another World Area, Roaring Creek Village, Cayo District.

9. All that area of land known as or comprising the entire Young Bank Area Camalote Village, Cayo District

UN Security Council passes resolution calling for Gaza ceasefire

Belize is welcoming the UNSC’s approval of an urgent resolution in Gaza, demanding an immediate ceasefire and the removal of all barriers to humanitarian aid. Belize reiterated its position that the achievement of a two-state solution is the only path to sustainable and permanent peace.

On Monday, the UN Security Council urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, marking a significant departure from the US’s previous stance as it chose not to veto the resolution. It called for the prompt and unconditional release of all hostages. This marks the council’s first call for a ceasefire since the conflict erupted in October, following numerous unsuccessful attempts.

The US’s shift underscores a widening gap between the US and its ally Israel regarding Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

*Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan. Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images*

A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office criticised the US for “abandoning” its previous position, which tied a ceasefire to the release of hostages. The statement said that the US’s position undermines efforts to secure the release of hostages by emboldening Hamas to leverage international pressure on Israel for a ceasefire without releasing the captives. Netanyahu cancelled scheduled meetings between an Israeli delegation and US officials in Washington this week. Israel’s defence minister said they would not cease its Gaza operations as long as hostages remained in captivity there.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasised the resolution’s imperative implementation to secure a ceasefire and the “immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.”