Minister Usher has Clear Vision for NEMO and Ministry

Henry Charles Usher may be in his first term as Minister responsible for the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), but he says the role has required him to hit the ground running. With Belize already facing early weather threats just weeks into the hurricane season, Usher has taken on the task of ensuring the country’s disaster response system is not only ready, but coordinated and efficient. Speaking to the media, Minister Usher acknowledged the challenges of stepping into this demanding role but expressed a clear vision for improvement. 

Henry Charles Usher, Minister of Public Service: “It’s a steep learning curve, Marisol, and it’s one that I have embraced. I thank the Prime Minister for allowing me to, you  know, assigning me this portfolio because I think it’s one that’s critical that if we can work together with public service because  NEMO works very closely with public offices and as a matter of fact all of the different committees that NEMO has established are headed by different public office departments. So it’s important to have this coordinating agency called NEMO, working closely with Ministry of Public Service to be able to staff, to be able to train, to be able to build capacity so that we are able and ready for any possible disaster that may come our way. “

NEMO plays a critical role in the nation’s disaster preparedness and response framework. As the country’s central coordinating body during emergencies, the organization works alongside government ministries, local authorities, community leaders, and humanitarian agencies to guide Belize through hurricanes, floods, fires, and other crises. Its effectiveness depends heavily on strong communication, rapid coordination, and collaboration across sectors.