A new independent water supply for Yemeri Grove
A partnership rooted in equity and community resilience
The Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, and Local Government, in partnership with UNICEF, officially inaugurated the Yemeri Grove Water System, marking an important milestone in expanding safe and reliable water access for rural families in the Toledo District.
This investment reflects a shared commitment to the principle that access to clean and dependable water is not a privilege; it's a fundamental right essential to every child’s health, dignity, and development.
The completion of the new water system allows the village of Yemeri Grove to become fully independent in its water supply for the first time. Previously, Yemeri Grove relied on a shared system with the neighboring village of Laguna, an arrangement that often created operational challenges and placed pressure on both communities.
The upgraded infrastructure includes:
- A new production well
- A structurally elevated reservoir
- A submersible pump with integrated components
- Direct connection to the community’s distribution network and BEL power
This system now delivers reliable, climate‑resilient water service to 121 households, improving daily convenience and greatly reducing public health risks linked to inconsistent access.
By strengthening water governance and equipping the local water board with an efficient, sustainable system, the project empowers the community to manage its own resources while eliminating technical challenges associated with shared supply.
The inauguration ceremony brought together leaders at the national and community levels, including:
- Hon. Oscar Requena, Minister of Rural Transformation, Community Development, and Local Government
- Dr. Olusola Oladeji, Health and Nutrition Specialist, UNICEF Belize
- Mr. Valentino Shal, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Rural Transformation
- Village leaders and residents of Yemeri Grove
Their participation underscores the power of collaboration between government, international partners, and communities in achieving long‑term development goals.
Water as a right, Water for every child
Supporting resilient water systems is essential to ensuring that every child grows up healthy, protected from waterborne illnesses, and able to reach their full potential. Access to safe water strengthens families’ well‑being, supports learning, and builds more resilient rural communities, especially in areas vulnerable to climate‑related
The Yemeri Grove Water System represents more than infrastructure, it is an investment in equity, resilience, and community empowerment. By expanding rural water access, the Ministry is closing service gaps and ensuring that families in the Toledo District benefit from the same level of dependable services found elsewhere in Belize.
Together, the Ministry and UNICEF are helping build a future where every community has the safe, reliable water it needs to thrive.
