The importance of promoting the cultivation of amaranth in the departments of El Progreso, Zacapa and Chiquimula in Guatemala, through the Pro-Resilience program, financed by the European Union (EU), implemented by the World Food Program (WFP), in alliance with AGEXPORT, can have a significant impact on the food security and economy of families in these departments.
Amaranth is an important source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It is particularly rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, which makes it an ideal option to combat malnutrition, especially in children and pregnant women. In addition, the crop is a resistant and tolerant native plant in complex soils, which makes it ideal for production in these areas.
Related note: AGEXPORT, through Pro-Resilience, carry out exchange tours for Tepin Chilli.
Otherwise, it has a positive impact on the environment. Unlike other crops, it does not require large amounts of water or synthetic products for its growth, which could reduce pollution in the region.
Pro-resilience and amaranth:
The Pro-Resilience program, through AGEXPORT, currently provides training and resources to 77 local farmers in the implementation of amaranth cultivation. The methodology consists of improve the technical production capacities, promoting a culture of entrepreneurship, and linking to export chains, with the objective of generating sustainable development in the communities.
Technical capacities are currently being strengthened through workshops and exchange tours, which consist of providing the theoretical and practical knowledge. Within these, a greater participation and interest of farmers is achieved, since they establish contact networks, clarify technical doubts, learn about good practices, and generate new business ideas.
Exchange Tour:
On March 15 and 16, 2023, the first amaranth tour was performed, organized by AGEXPORT, and financed by the EU, with 21 farmers from the departments of Zacapa, Chiquimula and El Progreso, which took place in the municipality from Rabinal, Baja Verapaz.
The Qachuu Aloom “Mother Earth” Association opened its doors to show and tell how they commercialize, as well as the different products that can be made with amaranth, the varieties that exist, model orchards and land use methods with crop diversification.
The people participating in the tour are expected to replicate the knowledge obtained in their communities, for which technical support will continue and other tours will be organized for the rest of the people who are currently in the value chain.
Related note: Women artisans from ZAP and Pro-Resilience at the New World Crafts fair.
