WFP allocates $1.4 million for Jalapa families facing drought in Guatemala

The World Food Programme (WFP) is set to provide US$1.4 million in aid to support 6,700 vulnerable families in Jalapa, Guatemala, as a precautionary measure against the anticipated impacts of drought caused by the El Niño phenomenon. Andrew Stanhope, the WFP representative in Guatemala, announced that these anticipatory actions are designed to minimize the effects of scarce rainfall on the region's crucial first grain harvest, which is vital for families dependent on agriculture.

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The WFP's actions are anticipatory, to assist vulnerable families in Jalapa.

Stanhope highlighted a shift in humanitarian aid strategy, moving from reactive crisis intervention to proactive early warning and preparedness. For decades, aid often arrived only after populations were already in crisis. However, the WFP now focuses on preparing communities for potential emergencies, such as the predicted drought. Key strategies include direct monetary transfers to female heads of households, the establishment of community grain banks, and training in climate monitoring.

These initiatives are implemented in coordination with both the central and local governments. Jalapa has been identified as a department at high risk of drought impact, prompting the WFP to prioritize identifying and assisting the most vulnerable families. Last year, similar interventions were focused on the Chiquimula department.

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For decades, humanitarian support arrived when populations were already in 'crisis'; however, in recent years, interventions have focused on early attention to prepare communities for potential emergencies.

This effort is part of the WFP's five-year plan for Guatemala (2026-2030), which aims to assist populations affected by crises, including natural disasters, while simultaneously strengthening community resilience for long-term sustainability. The plan also involves working with producer associations and cooperatives to enhance their organizational capacity and market access. The WFP has budgeted US$250 million for the implementation of this five-year plan in Guatemala.

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The idea is to assist the same populations that suffer impact and strengthen their resilience, with a long-term vision and sustainability.