Participation, Ownership and Sustainable Progress for Economic Resilience (PROSPER)

Southern Belize is home for rural and indigenous populations that derive their livelihoods from agriculture. Multidimensional poverty, particularly in the Toledo region, is a significant issue, with the highest incidence in the country, estimated at 60.3% in 2021. This high rate of poverty is largely driven by low educational attainment, which severely impacts employment outcomes, especially for women and youth. Women with only primary school education face an unemployment rate of 12.6%, nearly three times the national average of 5.0% and almost
twice the rate for those with secondary education. This educational deprivation also affects youth, limiting their job opportunities and contributing to long-term unemployment.

Aim

PROSPER (Participation, Ownership and Sustainable Progress for Economic Resilience) project aims to foster local economic development in Southern Belize, with a particular focus on rural and indigenous communities, especially women and youth. The project adopts a participatory planning approach, integrating skills development and entrepreneurship while promoting gender equality and environmentally sustainable practices. By identifying market opportunities in high-potential value chains, the project ensures that technical assistance and capacity development are market-oriented and feasible. Emphasis is placed on sustainable use of natural resources, maintaining biodiversity, while promoting local inclusive development.

The project strategy involves the creation of Local Action Groups (LAGs) to develop Local Economic Development (LED) plans through a participatory socioeconomic assessment. This includes an analysis and a planning cycle that incorporates long, medium, and short-term planning and ensures that the needs and perspectives of local communities are adequately addressed. This approach builds on lessons learned from previous initiatives, such as the Local Inclusive Sustainable Tourism Opportunities (LISTO) approach. Gender mainstreaming is a key component, ensuring equal participation and benefits for women from the outset. Training will be provided to local NGOs, government staff, and ministries to replicate the methodology in other parts of the country. Overall, the project aims to create a balanced approach that fosters enhancing environmental sustainability, promoting economic development, and ensuring social inclusivity.