A team from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB/the Bank) visited Belize during the period April 1-4, 2025, to conduct a comprehensive Country Project Portfolio Review. This four-day mission assessed the progress of ongoing CDB-funded projects, identified opportunities to accelerate implementation and ensured alignment with national priorities to deliver tangible benefits to Belizean communities. This mission reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to more responsive and country-aligned development support.

Hosted by the Government of Belize, the review facilitated crucial discussions between government officials, CDB representatives, and key project stakeholders in Belmopan and Belize City. The discussions focused on critical areas such as climate-resilient infrastructure, private sector growth, and social development.

CDB’s Acting Director of Projects Mr. L O’Reilly Lewis, emphasised the significance of the visit, stating, "This was an opportunity to ensure that CDB-supported initiatives are delivering meaningful, sustainable results. By working closely with key stakeholders, we can strengthen economic resilience, improve social services, and advance climate adaptation efforts for the benefit of all Belizeans. This visit reinforced the Bank’s commitment to supporting Belize’s development priorities."

The mission in Belmopan commenced on April 1, 2025, with high-level strategic discussions focused on infrastructure development, project implementation challenges, and lessons from key projects in the portfolio. These include projects in road transportation, education, water and sanitation, energy, and agriculture. Together, these investments are transforming connectivity, boosting trade and productivity, enhancing access to essential services, and laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and social resilience. This broad engagement reflects CDB’s commitment to supporting Belize in achieving inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable development outcomes.

On April 3, the CDB delegation conducted site visits to key project locations, providing an on-the-ground assessment of implementation progress. The review concluded on April 4 in Belize City, with discussions on energy security, including updates on power projects aimed at improving sustainable electricity access. A high-level wrap-up meeting with senior government officials summarised key takeaways and agreed on actionable next steps.

Mr. Carlos Pol, Chief Executive Officer at the Belize Ministry of Economic Transformation stated, “Belize welcomes the CDB’s country portfolio review mission. This collaborative process is essential for ensuring that our development initiatives are effective and aligned with Belize's national priorities. We value the CDB's partnership in strengthening our economic resilience, enhancing social services, and advancing climate adaptation. This review provides a critical opportunity to fine-tune our strategies and maximize the impact of these vital projects for the benefit of the Belizean people.” 

The Country Project Portfolio Review highlighted the strong partnership between the Caribbean Development Bank and the Government of Belize, reinforcing their shared commitment to sustainable development and improved quality of life for all Belizeans.