1 week ago
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The Sustainable and Inclusive Belize, SAIB project, is rolling out a nationwide outreach effort aimed squarely at boosting support for small farmers across the country. In a press release issued from Belmopan, SAIB announced the launch of a targeted National Outreach Tour designed to expand access to funding for small individual farmers and other underserved groups. The initiative, which begins next week, will see representatives traveling across the Stann Creek, Toledo, Corozal, Cayo, and Belize districts to meet farmers directly in their communities. Officials say the outreach is intended to ensure more equitable access to agricultural financing, with special emphasis on small individual farmers, female and migrant farmers, indigenous farmers, and youth farmers. A key feature of the program is the availability of non-refundable matching grants of up to four thousand Belize dollars for eligible farmers, funding that does not have to be repaid once used for approved agricultural improvements. According to SAIB, the support can be used for climate-smart agriculture investments such as solar irrigation, greenhouse structures, and water harvesting systems, as well as for business growth initiatives like equipment purchases, improved post-harvest storage, and market access. Sustainability measures, including soil conservation and biodegradable packaging, are also eligible. Communications Manager Signe Caminada says the project is intentionally moving beyond major towns and into rural communities to ensure farmers who traditionally face barriers to funding are not left behind. District Extension Officers will be available throughout the tour to assist farmers with the application process, as many small producers historically miss out on financing due to complex paperwork. The SAIB program is executed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries, and officials are encouraging interested farmers to attend the outreach sessions in their respective districts.
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