This modality of the Sistema Milpa program promotes cultural relevance and adapts to the use of native seeds that farmers have worked with for generations. Through training and technical advice, small corn producers in San Juan Sacatepéquez have the opportunity to acquire knowledge to improve their productivity. This is part of tactical activities developed to combat food and nutritional insecurity.
With each participating family, a demonstration plot is set up to produce not only corn, but also beans and ayote (a local variety of squash). To promote crop quality and productivity, each family receives a technological package consisting of fertilizers and pesticides. This kit is provided only if all scheduled training sessions and visits have been completed, in order to ensure that they acquire the necessary knowledge to use it to its full potential.
Tortilla is one of the staple foods in Guatemala and is traditionally made from corn, the most consumed staple grain in the country. It is estimated that the average person consumes 114 kg (2.5 quintals) of corn per year. Depending on the family’s income, this annual consumption can triple.
Progreso maintains an ongoing agenda of community support programs, such as the recent support for local leaders with the Cocineros Solidarios (Solidarity Cooks) program.
