PM Confirms MCC Funds to Resume With New Focus on Energy Sector

Prime Minister John Briceno says the discussions over the funding from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) continues with the key players in the United States.  He noted that while Belize has gotten confirmation for the resumption of the agreement, the terms of the use of the monies will see some adjustments, particularly in the area of energy.

John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize:“That’s what they’re proposing so now we need to sit down and discuss. Basically what they’re saying they want to remove more from education to put into energy and also then from energy to move to look at not only in sustainable or renewable sources of energy but also using fossil fuels. Obviously that is the new American government you know they have this emphasis on fossil fuels so I think it’s just reflecting that. We will do our very best to try to talk to them to point out to make the point that Belize is a country known for it’s natural beauty, it’s sustainable development policies and that we want to move more to renewable sources of energy and try to control as best as we possibly can the expansion of fossil fuels.”

Back in September 2024, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the Government of Belize signed a five-year, $125 million grant agreement known as the Belize Compact. The goal is to reduce poverty and stimulate economic growth by focusing on two key areas: education and energy. This grant is further supported by an additional $40.6 million commitment from the Government of Belize