OMAHA, Neb. -- The opening date for the first Consulate General of Guatemala in Omaha is getting closer and closer.

Since 2012, requests to open a Guatemalan consulate in Nebraska began, but the process was affected for various reasons, including the pandemic; which caused few Guatemalans to believe in the project this time. But, in 2023 it will come into operation.

This consulate will have jurisdiction in five states, including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska; serving about 75,000 Guatemalans and will have mobile consulates each month in the four neighboring states.

The construction of the facilities has advanced significantly, to begin consular services as soon as possible. But, they have already helped the repatriation of two deceased Guatemalans, visited people in hospitals and also Guatemalans in jail.

"I am very happy to be in Omaha, Nebraska. I have found a very united community, and I believe that next month we will have the opening date of the consulate," said Billy Muñóz, Consul General of Guatemala in Omaha.

The Consulate General of Guatemala is at 1010 North 96th St., suite 200, in Omaha. Its opening date will be announced very soon.