The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) has highlighted progress in promoting tilapia farming as part of the National Tilapia Day. The initiative aims to provide a sustainable option for improving nutrition and increasing rural family incomes.
This year, the Vice Ministry of Food and Nutritional Security (VISAN) launched a pilot plan to promote tilapia cultivation in Santa Rosa, Alta Verapaz, and Chiquimula. The project will set up 60 family fishponds, each capable of raising up to 500 fish per cycle. The expected output is around 1,500 tilapia per family for both consumption and sale. Technical and financial support is provided by the FAO.
In Petén, the Vice Ministry for Petén Affairs (VIPETEN) continues to strengthen its network of aquaculture producers through fry production at the Ecoproductive Center in El Remate. From January to October, 204,200 fry were distributed across 14 municipalities, benefiting 1,447 families.
The Directorate for Fisheries and Aquaculture Regulations (DIPESCA) has also enhanced technical training efforts in Petén. Over the last period, 572 producers—including 249 women—received training on pond management, feeding practices, and good aquaculture methods. Additionally, 22,000 fry were delivered to communities such as El Chal, San Benito, and Nuevo Horizonte cooperative; this benefited another 460 families.
"Tilapia is a resilient species with rapid growth rates and high nutritional value," MAGA stated. "It is rich in protein, B-complex vitamins and essential minerals." According to MAGA: "Its adaptability makes it an ideal option for strengthening food security and supporting low-cost productive activities in rural areas."
"With these actions," MAGA added, "the ministry reaffirms its commitment to promoting aquaculture as a sustainable activity that contributes to the country’s economic development and food security."
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