By: Omar Silva

Editor: National Perspective Bz – DIGITAL 2024

Belize City: Sunday 18th August 2024

As Belize approaches its 43rd anniversary of political independence, it is imperative that we confront a reality that has long been swept under the rug. While we have made strides in establishing our sovereignty since September 21, 1981, we have yet to achieve the true economic independence that was envisioned by our forebears. This article aims to ignite a national conversation, provoke thought, and inspire collective action towards a future where Belize is not just politically independent, but economically self-reliant and prosperous.

The Political System: A Stumbling Block to Progress

At the heart of Belize’s struggle for economic independence lies a political system that perpetuates dependency rather than self-sufficiency. The People's United Party (PUP) and the United Democratic Party (UDP) have both contributed to this stagnation, operating within a framework where political power often hinges on connections and popular surnames rather than merit or a deep understanding of governance. This has resulted in a leadership that is disconnected from the needs of a diverse, multi-ethnic population, and ill-equipped to address the distinct challenges faced by each of our six districts.

Neglect of in-country Regional Development

In the southernmost districts, where the population is predominantly of Maya and East Indian descent, industries such as citrus, banana, and fisheries have been allowed to wither. These industries, once the lifeblood of the region, have been neglected for decades. Meanwhile, a wave of Central American migrants, who began arriving in the 1980s and gained legal status through successive amnesties, have dramatically altered the demographic landscape. This influx has compounded the challenges of urban and rural planning, exacerbating the problems faced by an already struggling region.

In the north, the story is similarly bleak. The closure of one of the two major sugar mills shortly after independence left Belize dependent on a single facility, now owned by a foreign corporation. The papaya industry, once a beacon of economic hope, has also collapsed due to a lack of government support. These failures highlight a pattern of neglect and mismanagement that has left entire regions of Belize economically stagnant.

The Crucial Role of Education in Economic Transformation

A key pillar of economic independence is education. While Belize has made progress in increasing access to education, the quality and relevance of that education remain major concerns. Our educational system must be reformed to produce not just graduates, but critical thinkers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who can drive Belize's economic transformation. We need an education system that equips young Belizeans with the skills necessary to compete in a global economy—skills in technology, science, business, and sustainable agriculture. An educated and skilled workforce is the cornerstone of any independent economy.

Sustainable Development: Tapping into Belize’s Natural Wealth

Belize is blessed with abundant natural resources, from fertile lands to rich marine ecosystems. Yet, these resources remain underutilized or poorly managed. We must adopt a sustainable development model that not only protects our environment but also maximizes the economic benefits of our natural wealth. This means investing in sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, and renewable energy. It also means ensuring that the profits from these industries stay within Belize, benefiting our communities and reducing our reliance on foreign aid and imports.

Governance Reform: The Backbone of Economic Independence

Good governance is essential for economic independence. Belize must take bold steps to reform its political and administrative systems to ensure accountability, transparency, and the rule of law. Corruption and nepotism must be eradicated at all levels of government. We need strong institutions that serve the people rather than the interests of a few. This includes implementing campaign finance reform, strengthening the judiciary, and creating mechanisms for greater public participation in decision-making. Only with a government that is truly accountable to its citizens can we build a robust, self-reliant economy.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Engines of Growth

Innovation and entrepreneurship are the engines of economic growth. Belize must create an environment where new ideas can flourish, and where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can thrive. This includes providing access to capital, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and offering support through business incubators and accelerators. We need to encourage our people to think beyond traditional industries and explore new opportunities in sectors like technology, creative industries, and green energy. By fostering a culture of innovation, we can diversify our economy and reduce our dependence on a few key sectors.

A National Vision for Economic Independence

Belize needs a clear, collective vision for economic independence that transcends party politics. This vision should be developed through inclusive national dialogue, involving all sectors of society—from business leaders and civil society to indigenous communities and youth. It should outline concrete steps for achieving economic self-sufficiency, from improving infrastructure and boosting exports to reducing poverty and inequality. This vision should be a living document, revisited and updated regularly to reflect the changing realities and aspirations of the Belizean people.

Conclusion: The Time for Transformation is Now

As we approach this 43rd anniversary, it is time for serious reflection and transformation. We must ask ourselves what we have truly achieved over the past 42 years and what more we can do to secure our future. The theme for this year’s celebration, "A Nation Proud and Free, Belize@43," must not be an empty slogan. It should serve as a reminder of our potential and a rallying cry for action.

Belize still faces significant challenges, including the ongoing territorial dispute that hangs over us all. Yet, these challenges should not deter us; rather, they should motivate us to build a stronger, more self-reliant nation. It is time for Belize to realize its full potential. It is time for us to move beyond political independence and achieve the economic independence that will truly make us proud and free.

This 43rd anniversary should be more than a celebration—it should be a turning point. A moment when Belizeans come together, not just to reflect on the past, but to chart a bold new course for the future. A future where every Belizean has the opportunity to thrive. A future where our natural resources are harnessed sustainably, our governance is transparent and accountable, our education system is robust and relevant, and our economy is diverse and resilient. This is the vision of economic independence that we must all strive towards. The time for transformation is now.