GOB and IOM Sign Agreement to Develop a National Village Database

The Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government is pleased to announce the signing of an agreement with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to develop a comprehensive National Village Database. The database will be a robust data collection for rural communities nationwide.

The agreement, which was signed on February 7, represents a significant advancement in the country's efforts to modernize and expand data management systems for rural development initiatives. The National Village Database will be a vital tool to access accurate and up-to-date information on rural communities.

Key features of the National Village Database will include:

• Facilitating comprehensive data collection on various aspects of rural life, including demographic data, infrastructure, socio-economic

  indicators, and environmental factors.

• Strengthening evidence-based decision-making processes by

  providing policymakers, development practitioners, and community

  leaders with timely and reliable data insights.

• Enhancing transparency and accountability in rural development

  initiatives by promoting open access to relevant data for all

  stakeholders.

• Empowering local communities to actively participate in the

  development process by providing them a platform to represent their needs and priorities.

This initiative aligns with the ministry’s strategic plan and PlanBelize. It underlines the importance of data-driven approaches for the development of rural communities. This initiative will promote sustainable rural development by leveraging data and technology, as well as a commitment to supporting inclusive growth and strengthening community resilience.

The signing was done by Mr. Valentino Shal, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government, and Mrs. Diana Locke, Head of Office, IOM.

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For more information, please contact:
Ginee Neal
Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government

g.neal@labour.gov.bz