We recently collaborated with the Love Foundation, the Ministry of Public Service, and the US Embassy to organize an integrity training and friend-raiser event in Belize. The event was designed to equip participants with essential skills and strategies to promote good governance and accountability in Belize. The training was led by Jaco Roets, Programs and Learning Manager at Accountability Lab, and brought together a diverse group of participants, including accountapreneurs, government reformers, and mentors. According to Jaco, the training program aimed to promote the principles of good governance, policies, and project management. “Networking is not just about giving a quick elevator pitch. Instead, it involves understanding the principles of good governance and how they should be implemented in practical scenarios. It’s about identifying capacity-building areas that need attention and providing a platform to connect accountapreneurs, reformers, and mentors to encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing, and support,” Jaco explained.

The training falls under Accountability Lab’s Integrity Innovation Lab program and aims to equip participants with essential skills for effective government reform and good governance. Through interactive workshops and case studies, it covers project management, stakeholder engagement, theory of change, and strategic planning. The program focuses on developing clear pathways to desired outcomes and creating tailored strategies. Participants learn to engage stakeholders, analyze power dynamics, and address conflicts of interest. They are provided with practical tools for goal-setting and progress measurement, preparing them to drive meaningful change and promote accountability in governance.

During their first training session, participants were given an exercise where they had to imagine themselves as authors of their autobiographies and choose a title. The purpose of the exercise was to encourage them to reflect on what they could leave for the next generation, such as leadership skills, self-discovery, and ongoing efforts. The exercise also sparked conversations about their experiences in public service and how they managed projects and overcame challenges. They shared insights on the difficulties of working in an environment of non-performance and corruption and how they often struggle to tackle these issues.

The group discussed the challenges of implementing reform initiatives based on community feedback. They gained valuable insights into the importance of networking, mentorship, and long-term strategizing to achieve transformation. Jaco encouraged the discussion by raising questions about the culture of non-performance and how to recognize it. He emphasized the significance of project design, considering the future one wants to see, involving other stakeholders, and building trust. Kareen Gabourel, a Ministry of Infrastructure, Development, and Housing representative, shared her thoughts on being a reformer who cares deeply about the community. She acknowledged that people tend to bring up their concerns to public servants, and it’s essential to listen to their feedback and work towards fulfilling their needs. She highlighted the importance of remembering that achieving transformation cannot be done alone and requires collaboration and cooperation from various stakeholders.

On the second day, the group participated in a World Café session focused on good governance. They engaged in small-group discussions and rotations, which encouraged sharing of ideas and innovative problem-solving. In addition, they participated in a network weaving exercise using colored wool to visually demonstrate networking. This exercise led to conversations about intentionality, support, and maintaining morale. Jaco explained, “While networking can be uncomfortable and awkward, the power of networking is almost limitless and has a snowball effect. We all need other people, and sometimes we lack the confidence to create resources.” On the third day, the training focused on ensuring the sustainability of initiatives beyond the project period by strengthening connections and relationships and emphasizing ongoing support and feedback mechanisms.

During the training session, Kylah Ciego, a social worker and founder of Citizens for Good Governance (CGG), emphasized the importance of gradual progress. She said, “In leading by example, we must recognize that change is not immediate but requires persistent effort over time. This is particularly relevant in Belize’s context, where sustainable transformation in public institutions demands consistent dedication rather than seeking quick fixes or temporary solutions.” Cordelia Belezaire, an Administrative Assistant at the Government of Belize, reflected on the significance of understanding individual needs and fostering adaptability and accountability. She said, “I have learned that capacity building is not only about assigning tasks but also recognizing the challenges within Belize’s public service sector. Addressing them with training tailored to our needs is crucial.”

The Hon. Dr. Louis Zabaneh, the Minister of State in Education, Culture, Science, and Technology, and the British High Commissioner to Balmapan, Nicole Davison, were present at the event. Minister Zabaneh emphasized the importance of ethical governance, stating, “Good governance has to do with ethical behavior, in terms of managing resources that are not for you. So it could be within the public sector, NGOs, or wherever it might be taking the responsibility given to you, as the agent, and following through with what the principles want you to do.” He stressed the vital role of transparency and collaboration in driving Belize’s progress, saying, “Collaboration is critical for us to develop our social cohesion and social capital.” Minister Zabaneh also outlined his vision for Belize as a prosperous nation where citizens can enjoy the freedom and opportunity to pursue their chosen paths, saying, “I envision a thriving nation where our citizens enjoy the freedom and opportunity to pursue their chosen paths.”

The British High Commissioner to Belmopan, Nicole Davison, highlighted the importance of good governance centered on citizens, education, clear intentions, and ethical standards. She emphasized accountability through democratic systems, transparency, ethics committees, and the need to educate people about corruption and promote accountability. Davison also stressed the urgency of climate resilience, stating, “Addressing climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a matter of national security and sustainable development.” She envisions Belize reaching its full potential through strong climate resilience efforts and support for local talent.

Despite making progress, Belize still faces challenges on its path toward sustainable development. These challenges include addressing inequalities and promoting environmental sustainability. To help with this, the Integrity Innovation Lab provided participants with tools to build knowledge and consolidate their networks. The Lab recognized that documenting day-to-day experiences, setting goals and parameters, focusing on mentoring and support, and strategic mapping are all valuable network-building practices. By leveraging their networks and collaborating with stakeholders, the participants have the potential to catalyze transformative initiatives that promote good governance and accountability, which hopefully will lay the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future for all Belizeans.

Naseera Noor-Mahomed