The Government of Belize has secured BZ$8.9 million for the PROSPER Project, a new initiative aimed at strengthening economic activity and resilience in communities across Southern Belize.

The Participation, Ownership, and Sustainable Progress for Economic Resilience (PROSPER) initiative is being implemented through a partnership involving the Government of Belize, the European Union and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Representatives from 12 Toledo communities signed letters of intent during a September 25 ceremony at the Punta Gorda Sporting Complex, formally advancing their participation in the programme.

The project will support Maya and Garifuna communities in establishing local action groups that can develop and implement economic plans based on local industries. Areas identified include cacao agroforestry and sustainable tourism, alongside other community-based economic opportunities.

The initiative is designed to strengthen local participation in economic development while supporting income opportunities, community resilience and sustainable businesses in the Stann Creek and Toledo districts.