UK-backed fund supports early action on drought in Guatemala
Guatemala has received Start Ready funding for the first time to support early action that reduces drought risks in Quiché and Baja Verapaz.
Start Ready has released £725,000 (US$978,750) to support early action to reduce the impact of drought in Guatemala. Start Ready is an international pooled fund supported by bilateral donors and philanthropic partners, including the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
The activation followed early warning data that showed rainfall forecasts for the Primera season (from May to August) were below agreed thresholds. This approach lets organisations release funding based on data and forecasts. It helps humanitarian teams act earlier and more effectively.
Start Ready member organisations are leading the work with local teams. These include ASECSA, Plan International and CARE. They are working with local partners, communities and technical coordination groups. Activities were designed with affected communities and aim to reduce drought risks and build resilience.
Planned actions include:
- improving access to safe water
- supporting food security and nutrition
- strengthening health and livelihoods
- reducing drought-related risks
The support will reach more than 22,000 people in at‑risk communities across both departments.
This is the first time Guatemala has received Start Ready funding. It shows the growing role of early action in reducing climate-related humanitarian risks. It also highlights the importance of partnerships between international donors, humanitarian organisations and local groups.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-backed-fund-supports-early-action-on-drought-in-guatemala
