NEMO and Southern Communities partner to launch CERT Project to Strengthen Local Disaster Resilience

Published by BBNTEAM at June 13, 2025

Posted: Friday, June 13, 2025. 4:37 pm CST.

Press Release

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), in partnership with five southern villages, officially launched a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) project yesterday in San Miguel Village, Toledo. The initiative, funded by the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT, aims to empower local communities in the Toledo District through the formation of CERTs.

Teams will be established in the villages of San Miguel, Na Luum Ca, San Antonio, San Pedro Columbia, and San Jose, with the aim of enabling communities to take a proactive role in reducing disaster risks. This effort comes in response to last year’s devastating wildfires and NEMO’s continued commitment to building resilience at the village level.

Speaking at the launch, National Emergency Coordinator, Captain Daniel Mendez, emphasized the critical role of local preparedness in effective disaster management. “Strengthening the capacity of our communities is a national priority. These CERTs will help ensure that residents are not only prepared but can also respond quickly and effectively to emergencies,” Mendez stated.

The CERT project will equip participants with vital skills in Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRR), Village Disaster Risk Reduction Planning, First Aid and Basic Life Support, Search and Rescue, Fire Brigade Formation, and Early Warning Systems (EWS).

A notable feature of the initiative is the strong participation of local women, who are stepping up to lead efforts in community safety and resilience. Their involvement marks a significant step toward inclusive and community-driven disaster management.

The launch event was well-attended by residents, community leaders, and NEMO personnel, highlighting widespread support for the initiative. The CERT project reflects NEMO’s push toward strengthening localized, sustainable disaster preparedness strategies in Belize’s most vulnerable areas.

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