Iztapalapa, Mexico City, November 22, 2025.- The Undersecretary of the Penitentiary System, in coordination with authorities of the Iztapalapa mayor’s office, delivered certificates of training in the management of agroecological gardens to a group of people deprived of liberty, as part of the community project “Our Urban Agroecological Gardens TLALCALLI.”
The ceremony took place at the Men’s Social Reintegration Center of Santa Martha Acatitla, where it was highlighted that this initiative seeks to provide participants with technical tools in urban agriculture, reforestation and sustainable practices, with the purpose of strengthening their opportunities for social reintegration and promoting productive activities within penitentiary centers.
The program, operated by the Iztapalapa mayor’s office, has a team of environmental educators who provided training for two months to people held in the Women’s Social Reintegration Center, the Men’s Center and the Mexico City Penitentiary. Sessions were held twice a week and included topics such as crop selection, soil preparation, planting techniques, water management, pest control, fertilization, and harvest and post-harvest processes.
Agroecological gardens are currently being developed in eight penitentiary centers, where vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions and beets are grown, as well as aromatic and medicinal plants, including lavender, rue, aloe vera and epazote.
During the delivery of certificates, prison and mayoral authorities recognized the commitment of the participants and highlighted that this type of project contributes to building productive and sustainable environments, in addition to offering job alternatives for those who, in the future, regain their freedom.
Representatives of both institutions participated in the event, who formalized the conclusion of the course for 15 people in confinement and reiterated that these programs will continue as part of the comprehensive model of social reintegration promoted in the capital.
