Guatemala is facing serious challenges in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2) on Zero Hunger, which includes the elimination of all forms of malnutrition by 2030. 

Almost half the population cannot afford the cost of the basic food basket. As a result, the prevalence of stunting (impaired development due to malnutrition) in children under 5 is one of the highest in the world – and the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean.  

A multi-ethnic country with a rich cultural heritage, Guatemala is a country where poverty affects people disproportionately in terms of food insecurity, nutrition, health and education.

Guatemala is among the ten countries in the world most vulnerable to disasters and climate emergencies: over the past three years, extended dry seasons have had a severely damaging impact on the livelihoods of subsistence farmers, who rely on rain-fed agriculture – especially in the Dry Corridor.  

The World Food Programme (WFP) has been in the country since 1974 and has a long tradition of working with government authorities, UN agencies and partners to promote food security and nutrition for the most vulnerable people, including rural women and children. 

In line with SDG 2 targets, WFP is supporting Guatemalan institutions in their efforts to reduce food insecurity and malnutrition, through the strengthening of social programmes. WFP also works with rural communities to enhance their resilience to climate-related shocks and improve access to markets. 

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What the World Food Programme is doing in Guatemala

Emergency preparedness and response

WFP complements national efforts to meet the needs of affected communities. In case of sudden or slow-moving emergencies, WFP saves lives through cash-based transfers and emergency kits to prevent the deterioration of food security. For the prevention of the loss of livelihoods, WFP facilitates early recovery actions such as the implementation of grains reservoirs, water tanks and road recoupment. WFP helps to develop the capacities of government agencies responsible for the national response to disasters, through technical assistance focused on emergency response, anticipatory actions, logistics and humanitarian aid.

Publications

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In focus

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Partners and donors

Achieving Zero Hunger is the work of many. Our work in Guatemala is made possible by the support and collaboration of our partners and donors, including:
European Union German Cooperation BMZ German Cooperation GFFO Spain Canada

Operations in Guatemala

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Contacts

Office

13 Calle 8-44, Zona 10, Edificio Edyma Plaza, 4o. Nivel Oficina 400, Guatemala City
Guatemala City
Guatemala

Phone
+502 2300 6000
Fax
+502 2300 6003
Email
WFP.GuatemalaCity@wfp.org
For media inquiries
WFP.GuatemalaCity@wfp.org
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