Southern Belize Businessman and Community Leader Tony Zabaneh Dies

Independence Village businessman and former village chairman Antonio “Tony” Zabaneh has died. His family says he passed away yesterday, October twenty-first. Zabaneh was widely known across southern Belize for his work in agriculture, transportation, business and sports. He was the husband of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Elizabeth Zabaneh. The couple celebrated sixty years of marriage last December. His business interests included Z-Line Bus Company, Tony’s Hardware, and ventures in the banana and citrus industries. Alongside Michael Duncker and Zaid Flores, he was among the businessmen behind the Big Creek Group, helping develop the Port of Big Creek into a major gateway for Belize’s exports.  In a statement today, the People’s United Party credited Zabaneh with establishing the Banana Growers Association in 1971 and leading it until his death. The party also recalled his many years as chairman of Independence Village, with his last term ending in 2016. He was chairman during Hurricane Iris in 2001, when the storm devastated communities across southern Belize.  For football fans, Zabaneh was closely associated with Sagitun, the southern club he owned and supported through national championship success. His involvement in sports also extended to coaching softball and supporting young athletes. The PUP says he helped southern talent reach the national stage. Stann Creek West Express also paid tribute, remembering his contributions to the region’s industries, sports and community life.  In September last year, Zabaneh received the Order of Distinction at the Tribute to Belizean Patriots ceremony.  His family has announced two services. A Mass of Celebration will be held at Holy Redeemer Cathedral in Belize City on Tuesday, October 27, at two in the afternoon. A Mass of Thanksgiving follows at St. Pius X Church in Independence Village on Wednesday, October 28, also at two. He will be laid to rest in Independence Village.