Why is there malnutrition in Guatemala? A case study

Guatemala and Central America

Some data Inhabitants: 14.4 millions, at least 23 ethnic groups. A middle income country: GNI US$ 2,740 per capita. 50.9% lives on US$2 or less per day. 20% of inhabitants control 60.3% of national income. 8% own 80% of the more productive land. 19.3% of children have acute malnutrition (it could be over 50% in rural and indigenous areas). The highest prevalence of malnutrition in Latin America, the 6 th all over the world.

Malnutrition among the Chorti ethnic group … Chiquimula Department

Before 1492, Chorti lived around rivers and good places for hunting and fishing. There were some fights with other ethnic groups and sometimes they migrated to higher places where the same quantity of food was not available. Malnutrition among the Chorti ethnic group …

In 1530, the Chorti were colonized by Spain. They had to move to higher places and they were obliged to work on Spanish plantations that were establish on their original lands. Malnutrition among the Chorti ethnic group …

In 1821: Independence from Spain, coffee boom and the new authorities gave the best lands to those who supported the government. Chorti moved to the top of the mountains and tried to apply their ancient knowledge there. Malnutrition among the Chorti ethnic group …

Last 100 years: Chorti have lost most of their culture, languages and ancient livelihoods. Fast food is more available than their traditional and nutritious foods. Landslides are common as corn is not a suitable crop for growing on the slopes. As result, up to 70% of children under 5 are malnourished. Malnutrition among the Chorti ethnic group …

Is the Chorti history an isolated situation? ¿?

What CA is supporting … In two Chorti communities, CA supports Bethania with a two-year project which started in January Our project includes CA and Jersy Overseas Aid Commission (JOAC) funds and it is focused on: (i) increasing and diversifying agricultural production for domestic consumption and commercialisation. (ii) increasing families’ nutritional intake and healthy practises. (iii) setting up a nutrition and food security monitoring system.

What CA is supporting … At the same time, CA supports CONGCOOP to influence at national level on: (i)Advocacy for more investment on food security and rural development. (ii)People participation in policies and decision-making process.

Challenges … Historical inequality (ethnic groups, rural areas, women) Region is not a priority for international cooperation. Economic growing without benefits for the poorest. How to take advantages from basic grains as cash crops. To change the heritage of bad practices in the past in relation to food insecurity. A new government, with new and not clear policies.

If you want to know more … for human development reports. for historical racism and inequality. for how to influence food security and rural development policies. human rights situation. a blog about risk management and resilience, it includes food security.

Trying to have a better future …