A new Center for Dehydration and Processing of Native Crops was inaugurated in Colpetén, El Chal, Petén. The facility aims to boost the commercialization of native products and support school nutrition programs.
The center features a solar dehydrator designed to dry native crops such as sweet potato, cassava, taro, and plantain for flour production. It also processes other products like hibiscus flower. The project is funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the European Union.
Elmer Salazar, Deputy Minister in charge of Petén Affairs at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA), attended the inauguration. This center is one of five similar projects underway in municipalities including Las Cruces, La Libertad, San Luis, and Sayaxché.
Technical assistance for established native crop areas is provided by the Directorate of Agricultural Development (DAGRO) under VIPETÉN, in coordination with FAO and the local government of El Chal.
During his remarks, Salazar stated that several initiatives are being coordinated alongside this project. He noted ongoing efforts within MAGA and especially VIPETÉN to develop new projects aimed at strengthening the sector.
Salazar said: “Throughout my professional career I have had the opportunity to collaborate with various groups and witness the emergence of initiatives like this one. The Government under President Arévalo remains committed to supporting and securing more resources.”
He acknowledged FAO’s consistent support: “We have more projects and plans underway, and our goal is to realize them in order to generate positive results.”
Other attendees included Claudia Barillas from the European Union; Luisa Samayoa from FAO Guatemala; members of women producer groups who benefit from the initiative; and Elías Calderón, mayor of El Chal.
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