PROSPER Project kicks off with strong governance and clear goals

BELMOPAN, Belize (ILO News) – A bold new chapter in inclusive and sustainable development began on 24 June 2025, with the inaugural meeting of the Project Steering Committee (PSC) for the EU-funded ILO PROSPER Project. Backed by €4.2 million in funding, this flagship initiative aims to create decent work opportunities, strengthen local economies, and uplift communities across the Toledo and Stann Creek districts — areas that have long faced structural and social challenges.

With the PSC formally established and its Terms of Reference adopted, the Project now moves into its full implementation phase. Over the next four years, PROSPER will focus on three key pillars:

1. Inclusive local development planning;
2. Community-led conservation of landscapes and seascapes; and
3. Skills training and value chain development.

The Project will directly engage 40 communities, support 500 households, and positively impact over 2,500 individuals, laying the foundation for resilient, community-driven development.

Delivering a message via video, Mr. Xavier Canton-Lamousse, Team Leader at the European Union (EU), emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative: “The PROSPER Project is a very important Project for the EU. It is one of the two flagship projects for Belize under the 2021–2027 cycle. It allows the EU to partner with the Government of Belize and the UN Agency, ILO, to reduce poverty in the South. We would like PROSPER to become synonymous with prosperity for the communities of Southern Belize.”

Reinforcing the values of collaboration and empowerment, Mr. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO DWT and Office for the Caribbean, stated: “This Project reflects a tripartite commitment to creating quality employment opportunities through collaboration with local communities, Government, employers, and workers. It’s about creating sustainable economic opportunities for vulnerable communities in Toledo and Stann Creek. We re-emphasize our deep appreciation to the EU for their continued commitment to a shared future for us all.”

Representing the Ministry of Economic Development, Mr. Christopher Tapia spoke to the timeliness of the Project’s launch: “The PROSPER Project could not have come at a more opportune time. Stann Creek and Toledo have long lived with the compounded challenges of multidimensional poverty, limited economic opportunities, and underdeveloped human capital.” He also highlighted the Project's people-first approach: “What makes PROSPER truly powerful is its participatory approach. Development cannot be imposed — it must emerge from within. By establishing Local Action Groups, the Project empowers residents to define their own priorities, design their own solutions, and take ownership of their progress.”

Mr. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Rural Transformation and Chair of the PSC, underscored the importance of shared leadership and partnership: “We are very privileged to have the partnership of the ILO in this effort, given their experience and knowledge, and of course, the EU for funding this Project. This committee is a cornerstone for the Project’s success. The expertise in the room, and indeed your convening power, will all come together to ensure PROSPER delivers lasting impact.”

National Project Coordinator, Ms. Tanisha Chavarria, presented the Project’s roadmap, outlining the practical steps to bring PROSPER to life, from skills development and business support to participatory planning and environmental action.

With strong partnerships, inclusive processes, and unwavering from social partners, PROSPER is a movement to build dignity, opportunity, and lasting prosperity for Southern Belize.