Belmopan. April 13, 2021. 12:30 p.m.
The Government of Belize has pledged a contribution of US$50,000 to the Government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to aid in relief efforts as our CARICOM sister nation continues to endure volcanic activity following the first explosive eruption of the La Soufrière volcano on Friday, April 9, 2021.
Reports indicate that a total of 85 shelters have been activated with over 3,500 housed in these and approximately 16,000 to 20,000 persons likely to be affected or displaced in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as the volcano continues its series of explosive events with significant venting of ash that are likely to continue over the next few days. The ashfall is also affecting neighbouring islands in the Eastern Caribbean at this time.
Belize welcomes Vincentians who have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the seismic activity and who may have ties to Belize through family or friends in accordance with the determined requirements for entry including COVID-19 protocols. The Government of Belize will also provide humanitarian resources as required to assist with the disaster response plan on the ground.
Close communication and coordination on the situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will continue between Belize’s National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) during this emergency.
Belize stands in full solidarity with St. Vincent and the Grenadines during these dual crises presented by disaster response and the consequential socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected in the Eastern Caribbean as they brace this catastrophic event.
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