By Belize Live News Staff: Belize’s access to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) grant has been restored after months of uncertainty, but the final value of the funding package remains under negotiation.
The MCC, a U.S. foreign aid agency, had initially approved US $125 million (about BZ $250 million) to support development programs in Belize. The compact, signed in September 2024, was aimed at expanding access to education and modernizing the country’s energy sector with lower-cost renewable options.
Those plans were thrown into question when the Trump administration sought to cut back foreign aid programs, raising concerns that Belize’s grant could be lost. At one point, the MCC itself was threatened with closure, which would have impacted over 20 countries receiving a combined US $5.4 billion in funding.
Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca confirmed this week that Belize’s compact will continue, though the details are still being finalized.
“The good news is that the MCC compact will go forward,” Fonseca said. “Our teams in Belize are working with the MCC to determine what adjustments may be needed. We don’t expect major modifications, but those discussions are still ongoing.”
The government says the grant represents a major investment in Belize’s future, particularly in the areas of education and energy. Officials expect negotiations to conclude soon, with the final allocation to be confirmed thereafter.
