The first Experimental Livestock Farm was inaugurated on October 31 in San Bartolomé Milpas Altas, Sacatepéquez. The initiative aims to strengthen research, innovation, and technology transfer in animal production. It also seeks to promote sustainable development, food security and nutrition, and improve the productive capacities of local farmers.
At the event, three male and three female California rabbits were delivered, along with a pair of Alpine goats. Additionally, cuttings of Napier purple grass and Cuba 22 grass were donated. Twenty-five species of medicinal plants were also provided for reproduction and distribution to help diversify the farm’s production.
The activity was coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) through the Directorate for Support to Community Food Production (DAPCA) under the Vice Ministry of Food Security and Nutrition (VISAN), together with the Municipal Rural Extension Agency (AMER).
A veterinarian participated in the event to explain animal care practices and management details. The "semilleros" group provided guidance on agricultural production methods.
Participants received training on managing, breeding, and caring for livestock species such as rabbits, goats, and pigs for reproductive purposes.
There was also a session focused on Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture. According to organizers: "the nutritionist in charge offered an educational talk about the nutritional benefits of consuming goat milk, rabbit meat, and pork meat as well as the economic advantages these products offer families through their sale."
The farm features a demonstration medicinal garden designed to give local producers access to techniques and knowledge about complementary agricultural and medicinal crop cultivation alongside animal production.
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