Rene Villanueva Sr Inducted Into Battle of the Drums Hall of Fame

Veteran broadcaster and cultural advocate Rene Villanueva Sr. received a major honor on Friday night as he was officially inducted into the Battle of the Drums Hall of Fame. The award was presented during the highly anticipated Battle of the Drums Food & Fete in Punta Gorda, one of the signature events leading up to Garifuna Settlement Day.  Villanueva, well-known for his decades of contribution to Belizean media and culture, was recognized for his consistent support and promotion of the annual Battle of the Drums, a festival that has grown into a national and international showcase of Garifuna heritage. Organizers noted that his continued collaboration and visibility through Love FM and its platforms have played an important role in expanding the reach and prestige of the event.  The award was presented by the Battle of the Drums Secretariat, which highlighted Villanueva’s commitment to celebrating and amplifying Garifuna identity as part of Belize’s multicultural landscape.  

Joining Villanueva in this year’s Hall of Fame inductions were several key supporters and partners, including the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), and Raju Variety Store, each recognized for their long-standing contributions to the success and sustainability of the Battle of the Drums initiative.  Friday night’s celebration brought together cultural performers, local businesses, supporters, and community members for a vibrant display of food, music, and heritage, setting the tone for the upcoming Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19.  Organizers say this year’s Hall of Fame class reflects the strength of partnerships that continue to elevate Garifuna culture at home and abroad.