The Guatemalan Community Forestry Association Utz Che’ – meaning “good tree” in the K’iché language – is a civil association formed by community organizations dedicated to the sustainable management of their natural resources, mainly forests, tree plantations, and water sources.
Financial Administrative Sustainability
Facilitate the efficient and effective management and administration of the Association's resources by implementing continuous improvements in internal processes. This is based on the efficient and transparent management of financial resources, contributing to financial sustainability.
Strengthening Community Governance and the Network
Strengthen the governance system of organizations that make up the Utz Che´ network by consolidating and promoting inclusive participation, accountability, and empowerment of its members for integral development.
Sustainable Management of Natural Resources
Contribute to the Community Forestry management model adopted by grassroots community organizations for their natural resources and territories.
Community Livelihoods
Improve the living conditions of those who are members of grassroots community organizations through diversified, agroecological, equitable, and sustainable practices in production, fishing, forestry, community tourism, and other areas.
Defense of Rights and Political Advocacy
Achieve recognition and respect for the rights of communities to decide on their territory and natural resources by state institutions and civil society.
Equatorial Prize 2020
Promoting resilient communities, recognizing and promoting solutions based on sustainable development. Creating opportunities for knowledge and good practices developed in local communities and indigenous peoples, effective participation in promoting dialogue, analysis, and the development of inclusive public policies have been the fundamental principles and objectives of the Guatemalan Community Forestry Association Utz Che. These actions have earned us recognition from the UNDP through the 2020 Equatorial Prize, which recognizes the commitment and commendable work carried out by the women and men who are members of the various community organizations that make up the great Utz Che´ family.
