The Ministry of E-Governance, in partnership with the World Bank Group, hosted the kick-off meeting for a national cybersecurity assessment consultation at the Grand Resort and Residences in Belize City.

 

The consultation brought together stakeholders from critical infrastructure and essential services

across both the public and private sectors to assess the maturity level of cybersecurity in Belize.

Recognizing the growing importance of cybersecurity amid digital transformation and increasing

online threats, the Ministry welcomed a delegation of cybersecurity experts from the World Bank

Group, led by Dr. Giacomo Assenza, to analyze the cybersecurity capacity of Belize’s public and

private sectors.

 

During the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of E-Governance, Mr. Jose Urbina,

emphasized that this initiative marked a critical milestone in Belize’s digital transformation

journey. Mr. Urbina highlighted that “strengthening Belize’s cybersecurity posture and building a

safer, more trusted digital future for all” was a shared responsibility. He expressed deep

appreciation for the partnership with the World Bank, noting that their support reflected the global

recognition of cybersecurity as a foundational pillar of national resilience.

 

Mr. Urbina stated, “The Ministry of E-Governance, as the ministry mandated to lead and champion

national cybersecurity, envisions a future where Belizeans can confidently interact with digital

government services; where businesses—small and large—operate in an environment safeguarded

from digital threats; where critical infrastructure is resilient; and where innovation thrives because

trust is guaranteed, not assumed.” He further stressed that the next five years would be decisive in

building national trust in digital services and strengthening Belize’s overall cybersecurity posture.

 

The consultation engaged key information technology and information security representatives

from government ministries, regulatory agencies, civil society, academia, and private sector

institutions through a series of one-on-one interviews. The assessment empowered Belizean

organizations to share their insights and expert opinions to shape future cybersecurity policy.

 

Upon conclusion of the assessment, a summary report of recommendations was scheduled to be

disseminated to key stakeholders and published for public consumption.