Business & Economy
Little Oversight, Big Projects: Cayo Rosario and Belize’s Development Loopholes
A mega-resort project is taking shape on the leeward side of Ambergris Caye. The waters surrounding the 10-acre Cayo Rosario rival the pristine coral reef environment of the windward side, long a magnet for scuba divers and snorkelers. With translucent waters and small mangrove cayes, the area was once a haven for migratory and resident bird species and remains a critical nesting and feeding habitat. It is also a popular destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts. The island lies about a 45-minute boat ride from San Pedro Town, depending on sea conditions.
Community and Society
Different Views from Cabinet Members on Caye Caulker’s Cannabis Referendum
As Caye Caulker prepares for its historic October 8, 2025, referendum on the legalisation of cannabis, Cabinet members have voiced differing opinions on the initiative. If voters approve the petition led by Ilya Rosado, Caye Caulker would become the only place in Belize where cannabis use is legal and regulated.
Community and Society
Island Honours 227th Battle of St. George’s Caye Anniversary
On Wednesday, September 10th, the 227th anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye was observed in San Pedro with a uniform parade and a short civic ceremony at Central Park. Festivities began the evening before with the traditional fire engine parade. The Battle of St. George’s Caye is a defining moment in Belize’s history.
Community and Society
Caye Caulker to Hold Cannabis Referendum in October
Caye Caulker Village is set to make history on Wednesday, October 8th, when residents head to the polls to vote in a referendum on cannabis legalization. The Elections and Boundaries Department confirmed the date after certifying a community petition that surpassed the required support threshold.
Community and Society
The National Garifuna Council Meets with San Pedro Branch
The new Executive Committee of the National Garifuna Council (NGC) visited San Pedro on Saturday, August 30th, and met with the island’s branch members. The meeting at the Black and White Garifuna Restaurant focused on strengthening the branch, preparing for the election of new local leaders, and planning for the upcoming Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations on November 19.
Community and Society
San Pedro comes together for another successful Back to School haircut drive
As the new school year begins, many island students received free back-to-school haircuts thanks to a community-wide initiative supported by local authorities, the private sector, and the San Pedro Police Formation.
Community and Society
Early morning flag raising launches September Celebrations
September has arrived, and Belizeans are preparing for the patriotic festivities that mark the 227th anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye and the country’s 44th Independence Day. Across the nation on Monday, September 1, celebrations began with the annual flag-raising ceremony. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, community members, local leaders, and students gathered at Central Park to officially welcome the September Celebrations.
Community and Society
Department of Transport Announces Amendments to Wide Load Permits
The Department of Transport is reinforcing road safety regulations and has announced new rules for moving houses and other oversized structures by road. On Wednesday, August 27th, the department stated that such movements will now only be permitted between 9PM and 5AM on any given day. All holders of valid wide load permits must visit the department’s headquarters in Belmopan to amend their existing licenses.
Community and Society
New San Pedro Lions Club President Ready to Move the Club Forward
Lion Rosalyn Tzib has taken office as the 50th president of the San Pedro Lions Club and outlined her plans to strengthen the club’s role in serving the island community. Among her priorities are expanding services in the Lions’ global focus areas: environment, childhood cancer, hunger, diabetes, and vision.
Community and Society
Municipalities Ready to Host September Celebrations
September is Belize’s most patriotic month, when Belizeans celebrate their culture, heritage, and national pride. As the festivities approach, the National Celebrations Commission (NCC) has issued $15,000 grants to all nine municipal councils, including San Pedro’s, to support their events. This year’s celebrations are being held under the theme “Belize@44 – Stronger Together, Rising Forever,” featuring a month-long calendar of activities culminating on Independence Day, September 21st.
Community and Society
Living Word Church Hosts Final Back-to-School Giveaway in San Pedrito
On Wednesday, August 27th, Living Word Church hosted the final event in three back-to-school giveaways in the San Pedrito Area, providing essential school bags and supplies to local students. This initiative aimed to alleviate the financial burden on families as the new school year approached. Earlier giveaways were held at two locations: the first near Caribbean Chicken, where 100 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed, and the second at the San Pedro High School auditorium, where an additional 400 backpacks were handed out.
