Annual Performance Report Fiscal Year 2021

The project combines community-based development methodologies, strong relationships with stakeholders, innovative alliance and leverage approaches, and a highly experienced management team to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities. During fiscal year 2021, CLD achieved significant progress in its core components. In Market-driven strategies, the project supported the completion of six community water rehabilitation projects, benefiting 2,014 people (49% women) from 365 families. These projects received co-investment from municipalities, community contributions, government institutions, and private companies, totaling $151,202. Additionally, 130 groups adopted new technological or organizational practices, including 3 private enterprises, 125 producers' organizations, and 2 water users' associations. In Agricultural value chains, CLD supported 458 new farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices, including 234 women. The project also established 15 demonstration plots, showcasing the benefits of sustainable agriculture techniques. Furthermore, CLD facilitated the sale of 1,200 tons of coffee, generating $120,000 in income for 200 farmers. In Rural business enterprise, the project supported the establishment of 10 new businesses, creating 50 jobs and generating $100,000 in income for entrepreneurs. CLD also provided training to 200 entrepreneurs on business management and marketing skills. In Core Component 2: Alliances and resource mobilization, CLD established partnerships with 15 private companies, 10 government institutions, and 5 civil society organizations. The project also mobilized $500,000 in resources for community projects, including $200,000 from private companies and $150,000 from government institutions. Throughout the year, CLD implemented actions to respond to emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The project leveraged resources to support vulnerable communities, providing food assistance, hygiene kits, and personal protective equipment. In terms of progress achieved toward gender equity, CLD reported a 25% increase in women's participation in project activities, including 49% of beneficiaries in the Market-driven strategies component. The project also established a women's empowerment committee, providing training and support to women leaders. In terms of progress achieved toward empowerment of indigenous and marginalized populations, CLD reported a 30% increase in participation of indigenous communities in project activities. The project also established partnerships with indigenous organizations, providing training and support to indigenous leaders. Overall, CLD's community-driven development approach has been successful in promoting inclusive, responsive, and sustainable community-led development in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. The project's achievements in market-driven strategies, agricultural value chains, rural business enterprise, and alliances and resource mobilization have improved the quality of life for individuals and communities.