By Breaking Belize News Staff: Prime Minister John Briceño says Belize is requesting an extension of a World Bank-funded agricultural development project, warning that complicated administrative requirements have delayed its implementation.
Speaking following his return from Bangkok, Briceño explained that the project is intended to assist small farmers in adapting to climate change through improved agricultural practices and technology.
However, he complained that the World Bank’s requirements and approval procedures have made it difficult for Belize to complete the necessary work within the prescribed timeframe.
The Prime Minister said he raised the matter directly with two World Bank vice presidents during his overseas meetings.
The project is scheduled to conclude in March 2027, but Briceño said the government has made the case for additional time to ensure that farmers benefit from the initiative.
According to the Prime Minister, a World Bank technical team is expected to visit Belize shortly to review implementation, assess the project’s successes and consider the government’s request for an extension.
The Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture Project, approved in March 2022, aims to improve agricultural productivity and encourage the adoption of climate-smart farming practices. World Bank records identify March 31, 2027, as its scheduled closing date.
Briceño expressed optimism that the government’s discussions would help secure more time for the project, although no extension has yet been confirmed.
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