The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather input on the feasibility and design of the Sustainable Water Management (SWM) activity in Guatemala. This initiative aims to support the Government of Guatemala’s National Irrigation Policy (2024-2033), focusing on enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience to climate change. The SWM activity prioritizes watershed management, sustainable irrigation, and water resource protection, particularly in the Western Highlands and the departments of Alta and Baja Verapaz.

The primary purpose of this RFI is to solicit feedback from organizations with expertise in agricultural water resource management, climate adaptation, and infrastructure development, particularly those experienced in Guatemala or similar regions. USAID aims to use the input to develop a detailed implementation plan addressing water retention, irrigation, and capacity-building needs for smallholder farmers and local institutions. Objectives include improving year-round irrigation, strengthening community and municipal water management, and fostering collaboration with local communities, private sector actors, and international donors.

Respondents are encouraged to provide insights into several key areas. These include effective watershed management strategies, institutional capacity building, community-based adaptation approaches, financial models to support irrigation infrastructure, and the inclusion of Indigenous communities, women, and youth. USAID is also seeking recommendations on mechanisms to ensure sustainability and long-term local ownership of water management systems.

Responses should address the technical, operational, and financial feasibility of proposed interventions and identify potential implementation challenges. Additionally, feedback on integrating cultural considerations and lessons learned from similar projects is sought to enhance activity design. Submissions may also include case studies or examples of successful interventions in Guatemala or comparable environments.

Organizations interested in responding must submit their input electronically to igonzalez@usaid.gov by January 22, 2025, at 5:00 PM Guatemala local time. The submission should include organizational information, detailed responses to the key areas, relevant case studies, and contact information. This RFI does not constitute a funding opportunity and responses are voluntary. No funding or compensation will be provided for participation in this information-gathering process.