We recently hosted an integrity training and friend-raiser in Belize with the Love Foundation, the Ministry of Public Service, and the US Embassy. Led by Jaco Roets, Programs and Learning Manager at Accountability Lab, this event brought together a diverse group, including accountapreneurs, government reformers, and mentors, providing a platform for participants to develop essential skills and strategies to advance good governance and accountability in Belize. “This training connects accountapreneurs, reformers, and governance mentors to promote collaboration and share knowledge for projects,” Jaco said. 

The training began with participants envisioning their life stories. This prompted discussions about their experiences in public service, specifically managing projects and navigating cultural differences. The participants discussed the challenges of reform initiatives based on community feedback and were enlightened about the significance of networking, mentorship, and strategizing for long-term transformation.

On the event’s second day, participants participated in a World Café session involving small-group discussions and rotations focused on good governance. This format encouraged the sharing of ideas and innovative problem-solving. Additionally, participants engaged in a network weaving exercise, using colored wool to visually demonstrate networking. This exercise sparked conversations about intentionality, support, and maintaining morale. 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.

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.

Reflecting on the three-day training, one participant stressed the significance of gradual progress and commented that 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,” they added. Another participant reflected on the importance of understanding individual needs and fostering adaptability and accountability, saying, “I have learned that capacity building is not just about assigning tasks but recognizing the challenges within Belize’s public service sector and addressing them with training tailored to our needs.” These insights underscore the ongoing efforts to instigate positive change within Belize’s public institutions, emphasizing the importance of long-term commitment and customized approaches to training and development.

The Hon. Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of State in Education, Culture, Science, and Technology, and British High Commissioner to Balmapan, Nicole Davison, were in attendance. 

Minister Zabaneh underscored the fundamental importance of ethical governance, elucidating, “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, wherever it might be taking the responsibility given to you, as the agent, and following through with what the principles want you to do.” In emphasizing the vital role of transparency and collaboration in driving Belize’s progress, he said, “Collaboration is critical for us to develop our social cohesion and social capital.” Minister. Zabaneh outlined his aspirational vision for Belize as a beacon of prosperity and opportunity: “I envision a thriving nation where our citizens enjoy the freedom and opportunity to pursue their chosen paths.”

The British High Commissioner to Balmapan, Nicole Davison, shared that good governance must be about citizens, education, knowing your intent, and honoring your standards. She underscores the imperative for governments to be accountable through functioning democratic systems, transparency, and the establishment of ethics committees. The High Commissioner also emphasizes the importance of educating citizens on corruption and fostering a culture of accountability among governments and peers alike. Davison stresses the urgent need for climate resilience, declaring, “Addressing climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a matter of national security and sustainable development.” Looking ahead, she envisions a Belize that realizes its full potential through robust climate resilience initiatives and the nurturing of local talent. 

Despite progress, challenges remain on the path to sustainable development in Belize, including addressing inequalities and promoting environmental sustainability. The Integrity Innovation Lab gave participants the tools to build knowledge and consolidate their networks by recognizing the value of documenting day-to-day experiences, setting goals and parameters, focusing on mentoring and support, and strategic mapping in network building. By leveraging their networks and collaborating with stakeholders, they have the potential to catalyze transformative initiatives that advance the principles of good governance and accountability, laying the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future for all Belizeans.

Naseera Noor-Mahomed