The Government of Belize has received a loan in the amount of US$ 7,000,000 from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the purpose of improving the enabling environment for private and public sector development through enhanced land security, effective land markets, and the promotion of a coherent land policy framework contributing to efficient use of land resources and sustainable development. The project consists of four components: (1) National cadaster and property rights registration; (2) expansion of land administration services; (3) land use planning and development review; and (4) land policy reform and institutional strengthening of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Industry (MNREI), which is the executing agency for the program.

In relation to component two, the MNREI requires the services of a professional company to acquire aerial photography and prepare digital maps and orthophotos. This work includes the following activities: (i) acquisition of approximately 102 km2 of 1:4,000 scale black and white aerial photography of four urban areas in Belize, namely Belize City, Dangriga Town, Orange Walk Town and San Ignacio/Santa Elena Towns; (ii) kinematic GPS and ground control for the areas of photography; (iii) aerial triangulation and adjustment of photo blocks; (iv) digital image scanning; (v) topographic mapping; (vi) preparation of digital orthophotos; and (vii) preparation of compilations plans, field completion and preparation of registry index maps of selected areas within these towns.

The MNREI now invites eligible local and international companies and consortia from the IDB=s member countries to express their interest in providing the services. A shortlist of three to six firms will be selected and invited to submit technical proposals. Consulting companies seeking to be shortlisted are required to present evidence of their legal, technical and financial capacity, as well as relevant experience in providing the range of services required.

It is anticipated that the provision of services start on 1 January 2003. Firms shall be shortlisted based on the following criteria:

$General background

$Similar work completed

$Prior experience in Belize or in similar country

$Language proficiency

$Use of local consultants

Expressions of interest (three sets) must be delivered to the address below, in sealed envelopes marked AExpression of Interest - Consultancy for Aerial Photography and Mapping@, by 1600 hours (local time) on 22 July 2002.

Attn: Program Manager

Land Management Program

Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Industry

Market Square,

Belmopan City, Belize

Tel/Fax: (501) 822-2037. E-mail: landadmin@btl.net