March 30, 2026
The Central Bank of Belize (Central Bank) successfully conducted a week-long training programme for the credit union sector from 20 to 27 March 2026. This programme was aimed at strengthening governance frameworks, enhancing institutional resilience, and promoting the sector’s long-term sustainability. The initiative formed part of the Central Bank’s broader efforts to support the modernization of the legislative and supervisory framework governing credit unions.
The training programme was facilitated by Mr. Dave Grace, Executive Director of the International Credit Union Regulators’ Network, an internationally recognized organization specializing in regulatory and supervisory best practices for credit unions. Participants included Board and Committee members, senior management, and key staff from all credit unions across Belize. The programme covered critical areas of governance and oversight, including strategic and business planning, financial performance and capital management, risk management practices, internal controls, and cybersecurity.
In his opening remarks, the Governor of the Central Bank, Mr. Kareem Michael, acting in his capacity as Registrar of Credit Unions, stated that the training fulfilled the Central Bank’s commitment made during industry consultations on the draft Credit Unions Bill to ensure that regulatory reform is complemented by institutional capacity development.
The Central Bank remains committed to fostering a safe, sound, and stable credit union sector that operates in compliance with regulatory requirements, engenders members’ confidence, and contributes meaningfully to financial inclusion and economic development in Belize.
