Draft:David Allan Kirkwood Gibson

David Allan Kirkwood Gibson (April 12, 1953 - April 1, 2024) was a distinguished Belizean diplomat, public officer, and ambassador whose career spanned several decades. Renowned for his extensive contributions to Belize’s foreign policy and his leadership within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Gibson was celebrated as one of Belize’s most esteemed diplomats.

Early Life and Education David Gibson was born on April 12, 1953, in Belize City, British Honduras (now Belize), to Karl Levi Gibson and Olivia Daphne Kirkwood Gibson. He was the middle child of three siblings, including his older brother Douglas and younger sister Stephanie. His father was a land surveyor who became the Surveyor General of Belize, and his mother was a primary school teacher who later devoted herself to raising her children. Gibson pursued higher education at the University of the West Indies, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Government in 1976. In 1986, he completed a Master’s degree in Development Studies, specializing in Public Policy and Macro-Economic Planning, at the International Institute of Social Studies in The Hague, Netherlands.

Diplomatic and Public Service Career David Gibson began his career in public service in 1976 and quickly rose through the ranks, holding key positions such as Permanent Secretary in various ministries and Financial Secretary. His tenure as Permanent Secretary and later Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs established him as a leading authority on Belize’s foreign affairs, particularly the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute. Although the dispute remains unresolved, Gibson’s contributions significantly advanced Belize’s position in international negotiations, earning him widespread respect for his diplomatic skills. He also served as a non-resident ambassador to Thailand and Japan, further expanding Belize’s international relations. In 1998, Gibson founded the Centre for Strategic Studies, Policy Analysis, and Research (CSSPAR), a think tank that played a pivotal role in shaping Belize’s strategic policy development. His work extended to regional organizations, and in 2023, CARICOM celebrated him for highlighting regional support for Belize’s independence in 1981.

Personal Life David Gibson married Dalila Elvira Espat on November 8, 1980. Gibson was the father of nine children.

Legacy and Death David Gibson passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 1, 2024, at his home in Belmopan, Belize. He was 70 years old. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described him as “a true Belizean patriot and one of Belize’s foremost diplomats” whose legacy of dedication and service to the nation will be remembered for generations.

Honors and Contributions Gibson’s dedication earned him numerous accolades, including the Grand Cross of Diplomacy from Taiwan in 2002. Throughout his career, he served on several boards and commissions, including the National Security Council and the Belize-Guatemala Technical Commission. His expertise in boundary dispute resolution and governance redesign made him a respected figure in both national and international circles. Gibson’s intellectual contributions extended beyond his government roles, with interests in strategic studies, science diplomacy, and sustainable development policies for the Meso-American Barrier Reef System.