VOICED: Venezuela turns to urban farms to meet food needs

In Caracas, a former Hilton Hotel has been transformed into a thriving urban farm as part of a project initiated by President Hugo Chávez. The initiative aims to help the urban poor grow their own food, reducing reliance on expensive imports. With government support in the form of free seeds and training, families have significantly cut their food expenses. Despite opposition criticism, over 21,000 urban allotments are now in use, offering a potential solution to Venezuela's agricultural challenges.

What is the purpose of the urban farming project launched by President Hugo Chávez?

What percentage of food does Venezuela import, and how does this affect its citizens?

How has the urban allotment project impacted the food bills of families working the land?

What support does the government provide to those participating in the urban farming initiative?

Discuss the opposition's view on the urban farming project and its effectiveness.