USD 100,000 in Relief for Belizean Farmers Affected by Flooding

Belizean farmers impacted by Tropical Storm Sara are set to receive much-needed relief thanks to a USD 100,000 donation from the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The funds will support a joint initiative by the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the Belize Livestock Producers’ Association (BLPA) aimed at assisting cattle farmers in the Belize River Valley and Crooked Tree.

The cheque was officially handed over today by Lily Li-Wen Hsu, Taiwan’s Ambassador to Belize, to Amalia Mai, CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

Tropical Storm Sara caused widespread flooding in November 2024, devastating livestock-producing areas. Farmers reported significant losses, including waterlogged pastures, limited feed supplies, and livestock deaths. The situation has placed enormous pressure on the livelihoods of farmers and their communities, which depend heavily on livestock for income and food security.

The relief effort will address both immediate and long-term needs. In the short term, emergency feed—such as silage and mill feed—will be distributed to prevent further livestock losses and maintain herd health. Looking ahead, the initiative will establish one-acre water-resistant pastures using Mombasa grass for 200 farmers. These pastures will provide a sustainable source of silage during future floods or droughts.

Farmers will receive training in pasture establishment, veterinary care, and silage production to enhance their ability to manage livestock and mitigate future risks associated with natural hazards.