The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) has reported progress in its participation in the intersectoral Mano a Mano Strategy, an initiative promoted by the Guatemalan government. The program aims to strengthen productive capacities among rural families across 25 prioritized municipalities in 2025.
In October, MAGA, through its Directorate of Regional Coordination and Rural Extension (DICORER), worked to consolidate efforts at the local level. These actions focused on rural development, food security, and increased agricultural productivity.
Community training sessions emphasized better food management practices, diversification of family crops, and rainwater harvesting techniques. According to MAGA, these activities have led to improvements in community resilience and productive autonomy.
Specialized training was also held for poultry and rabbit farming. These sessions targeted improved feeding practices, biosecurity measures, and sanitary management. In some regions, producer groups began organizing locally with the aim of strengthening their production activities and connecting with community markets.
Agricultural extension workers provided further training related to strategic crops and agroecological management systems. They promoted efficient use of inputs distributed through Patio and Milpa initiatives as well as the establishment of family gardens.
Technical support was extended to staff from the Directorate for Support of Community Food Production (DAPCA) within the Vice Ministry for Food Security and Nutrition (VISA). This included implementing school and community gardens intended to boost local food production.
MAGA reports that 2,767 farmers received training or technical assistance in agriculture, livestock production, or hydrobiological activities within the targeted municipalities. Additionally, 1,025 producers were supplied with ICTA B7 corn seed and squash seed for milpa system cultivation—supporting staple grain reserves—in Santiago Chimaltenango (Huehuetenango), Camotán (Chiquimula), and San Carlos Alzatate (Jalapa).
Furthermore, 124 small-scale farmers from Comitancillo (San Marcos), Colotenango (Huehuetenango), and Jocotán (Chiquimula) received vegetable seedlings along with technical assistance for establishing family or community gardens using patio system methods.
"The MAGA reaffirms its commitment to comprehensive development in rural Guatemala as well as interinstitutional actions promoted by Mano a Mano," stated officials from MAGA. "These are aimed at ensuring the wellbeing of rural families while strengthening family agriculture and national food security."
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