Contribution to improving household nutrition and promoting women's rights in 16 communities in Western Guatemala through the implementation of agroecological practices, increasing the availability of nutritious food produced using agroecological technology by member families of UAM and increased male involvement in food production and household tasks.
The intervention involves 320 women from smallholder families in 16 communities across 7 municipalities in 5 departments of Guatemala's Western region, with a focus on impoverished rural communities inhabited primarily by Indigenous peoples. Thirty-two female leaders will undergo training to support the technical implementation of organizational, productive, and advocacy processes. Additionally, 160 men from beneficiary households will be engaged to promote gender equality and equity within their families. 480 directly involved (320 women / 160 men), 4.600 indirect involved.
Guatemala exhibits stark economic disparities, with urban regions resembling industrialized nations while rural areas mirror impoverished African countries. Despite a relatively stable economy and high middle-income status, poverty and inequality persist due to limited government revenues, constraining public investment in essential services like education and healthcare. Chronic malnutrition rates are among the highest globally, particularly affecting indigenous and rural populations, with 47% of children under five suffering from stunting. Climate change exacerbates challenges, leading to water scarcity, loss of native crops, and increased poultry mortality, further impacting food security and exacerbating poverty.The project aims to address these issues in 16 western Guatemalan communities by promoting household vegetable gardens, implementing rainwater harvesting systems, and establishing participatory poultry breeding units. Additionally, it seeks to ensure sustainability through the training of Agroecological Promoters, empowering local women who often face limited opportunities and societal barriers. Addressing gender equality is crucial, as women's empowerment remains constrained by cultural norms and underrepresentation in decision-making roles, hindering their socio-economic advancement.