A community garden in Barrio El Puente, located in Los Vados, Jocotán, Chiquimula, has received a drip irrigation system to improve vegetable production and support food security for local families.
The initiative is part of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA)'s response in areas prioritized by the Mano a Mano intersectoral initiative. This program, led by the Government of Guatemala, aims to provide comprehensive support to rural communities by strengthening local food production, community organization, and environmental sustainability.
The installation was carried out through cooperation between MAGA and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), under the RELIVE/RESICLIMA program. Funding for this effort comes from the Green Climate Fund and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
According to officials, "The irrigation system, supplied by a reservoir with geomembrane donated by FAO, seeks to optimize water use and ensure constant and quality production in the community garden."
Technical support was provided by the Directorate for Support of Community Food Production (DAPCA) under the Vice Ministry of Food Security and Nutrition (VISAN), as well as extension workers from MAGA's Municipal Rural Extension Agency.
As part of these efforts, seedlings of various vegetables—including onion, jalapeño pepper, eggplant, Swiss chard, cilantro, and lettuce—were distributed to strengthen production in the garden. The group managing this garden consists of 14 women farmers.
These actions are intended to promote fresh and nutritious foods while encouraging food security, health benefits, and learning about sustainable practices in community agriculture.
Key benefits highlighted include increased efficiency in water use; availability of healthy foods for family consumption; assurance of varied diets; and promotion of environmental sustainability in agricultural production.
Officials stated that these measures align with government programs supporting rural farmers.
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