Belize Federation of Fishers -BFF

21/09/2026

Condolences from the Belize Federation of Fishers

We mourn the passing of our brother in the industry, Laselle Rayford Coote — a dedicated fisher, proud Belizean, and valued member of the Belize Federation of Fishers.

Laselle believed deeply in the future of our industry and gave his time and energy to building it. He participated and contributed in the Belize Fisheries Project as a leading voice, as well as the Support for Implementing Agents of Change Program (Phases 1, 2, and 3), and took part actively in BFF- LED fisheries workshops in the South. His commitment was always clear: to see the best for Belize’s fisherfolk and to strengthen our collective voice.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fellow fishers. His legacy of service and vision for a stronger industry will continue to inspire us.

Rest in peace, Laselle. Your work lives on in the community you helped build.

21/09/2026

Belize Federation of Fishers Youth Program
Anchored in Governance. Powered by Community. Driven by Results.

On September 19th, 2026, young fishers gathered in Corozal for our Youth Leadership & Empowerment Workshop. Together, we built skills in governance, gender equity, and climate resilience — and launched the BFF Youth Wing Executive to give youth a stronger voice in fisheries decision‑making.

Youth Wing Executive
Chairman: Nestor Lopez Jr.
Vice Chair: Kevan Rodriguez
Treasurer: Amir Valdez
Secretary: Emir Valdez

Participants also received the Youth Wing Toolkit — a resource for compliance, advocacy, and resilience, ensuring youth leaders have practical tools to guide their work.

Empowered Youth, Resilient Fisheries.

05/08/2026

From Coast to Cabinet

"Fisher voices belong in policy rooms. Through national forums and exchanges, the Belize Federation of Fishers is connecting coastal communities to decision-makers. Your voice matters. Let’s shape the future together."

Fishers’ voices, fishers’ rights—guardians of Belize’s blue legacy.” A message from the Belize Federation of Fishers.

03/06/2026

Youth Voices Matter

"Fisher governance isn’t just for adults. Youth and women are stepping into leadership roles across Belize. Through training and forums, the Belize Federation of Fishers is amplifying new voices. Because inclusive governance builds resilient communities."

Fishers’ voices, fishers’ rights—guardians of Belize’s blue legacy.”

A message from the Belize Federation of Fishers.

28/05/2026

Legal Empowerment Workshop – Corozal Town

The Belize Federation of Fishers (BFF) is proud to have hosted our Legal Empowerment Workshop in the North, bringing together fisherfolk, community leaders, and partners to strengthen knowledge of fishers’ rights, governance compliance, and climate justice.

Our focus was clear: Legal Empowerment • Governance Compliance • Climate Justice. Participants engaged in interactive sessions on the Right to Fish, enforcement procedures, grievance mechanisms, and climate resilience strategies. Role‑play scenarios helped members practice respectful interactions with officers, while the Fisher Compliance Checklist and action sheets provided practical tools for daily use.
We extend appreciation to Israel J. Alpuche, Attorney‑at‑Law, for delivering key materials that anchored the workshop in governance and compliance. Certificates of participation and toolkits were distributed, ensuring every member left empowered with knowledge and resources.

Together, we are building resilience, protecting livelihoods, and ensuring fisherfolk voices remain central in Belize’s blue economy.

“Fishers’ voices, fishers’ rights — guardians of Belize’s blue legacy.”

14/05/2026

Resilient Bold Belize (RBB) Program
Improving Stewardship and Sustainable Livelihoods in Belize

The Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future invites public feedback on an upcoming project under the RBB Program. This initiative, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and delivered by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in partnership with the Belize Fund, is designed to support fishing communities and coastal families facing the impacts of climate change.

What the Project Will Do
*Strengthen fisher associations through training and registration
* Create new livelihood opportunities with business skills, financial management, and climate‑smart practices
* Share knowledge by connecting fisher associations locally and internationally

Communities Included
Sarteneja • Chunox • Copper Bank • Gales Point • Hopkins • Riversdale • Seine Bight • Monkey River • Punta Negra • Barranco

Public Review Period: April 30 – May 30, 2026
Email: [email protected]
Call: +501‑880‑3863 or +501‑672‑3863
Formal grievances may also be submitted through WWF‑US or relevant government channels.

Shared by the Belize Federation of Fishers (BFF) to ensure fisherfolk across Belize are informed and can participate in the public review process.
Your input matters! Help strengthen coastal communities and build a more resilient Belize.

08/05/2026

Anchored in Governance
"Strong governance means strong communities. The Belize Federation of Fishers is anchoring change through quarterly EMC meetings, compliance support, and fisher representation. Transparency starts with us. Join and support the movement—anchored in governance, powered by community."
Fishers’ voices, fishers’ rights—guardians of Belize’s blue legacy.” A message from the Belize Federation of Fishers.

17/04/2026

17/04/2026

“Support your neighbourhood fisherman and fisher woman Belize’s fishers are more than workers—they are guardians of our seas and storytellers of our communities. The Belize Federation of Fishers is building legal awareness, empowering communities, and strengthening governance. By knowing our rights and sharing our stories, we protect livelihoods, strengthen governance, and secure Belize’s blue legacy for generations to come.
Fishers’ voices, fishers’ rights—guardians of Belize’s blue legacy.”

31/12/2025

Belize Federation of Fishers – New Year Message 2026
Dear Members, Partners, and Friends,

As we close 2025, we celebrate the resilience that defined our Federation. Despite challenges in our sector and wider economy, the Belize Federation of Fishers stood strong — safeguarding livelihoods, amplifying fisher voices, and strengthening governance across our associations. Together, we proved that unity and principled leadership can overcome adversity.

Now, as we enter 2026, we do so with renewed purpose and determination. Our guiding phrase — Anchored in Governance. Powered by Community. Driven by Results. — is more than a slogan. It is the spirit of our Federation. In 2026, we will continue to champion fisher voices, strengthen governance, and build resilient communities across Belize.

On behalf of the Belize Federation of Fishers, I extend heartfelt gratitude to our members, partners, families, and donors for your trust and collaboration. May 2026 be a year of strength, progress, and shared success.

Happy New Year!
Together, we rise stronger.