Nutrition-sensitive agriculture workshop held for extension workers in Zacapa

Maynor Estrada, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación
Maynor Estrada, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación | Twitter

A workshop focused on nutrition-sensitive agriculture was held on November 26 in Zacapa, Guatemala. The event was attended by 20 extension workers from family agriculture programs and rural home educators. Its aim was to strengthen knowledge and provide tools to improve food security and nutrition in the communities where these professionals work.

The session was led by Angelina Nájera, a nutritionist with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA). Nájera presented on key topics related to nutrition throughout the life cycle and how it connects with the implementation of school, family, and community gardens.

“These contents are fundamental because they allow us to understand how proper nutrition, from childhood to adulthood, contributes to growth, development, disease prevention, and improved quality of life,” said Nájera. She also emphasized the importance of gardens as educational and productive tools that ensure access to fresh, varied, and nutritious foods.

Participants discussed the value of replicating culturally relevant nutritious recipes at home as a way to diversify diets and strengthen food security for rural families.

Jacobo Franco, an educator from the Human Rights Ombudsman’s Office (PDH), participated in the workshop. He provided educational materials to support extension workers in future training sessions aimed especially at rural women.

At the end of the event, diplomas were awarded to those who completed both workshops. Organizers recognized their commitment to ongoing improvement and their work within Guatemalan communities.