Quintas produtivos como fator de empoderamento feminimo: o exemplo das mulheres de Brasilina no município de Itapecuru - MA

Abstract

This study explores the role of productive home gardens as a tool for women's empowerment in the community of Brasilina, located in the municipality of Itapecuru- MA. These gardens, which are small areas dedicated to the cultivation of food, small animal husbandry, and the growth of medicinal plants, have proven fundamental for food security and income generation among rural families. This work analyzes the activities developed by the women involved in the home garden project, the barriers faced during the process, and the social and economic impacts observed. The research was conducted through biweekly home visits between December 2023 and April 2024, during which socioeconomic questionnaires were applied, and agricultural practices in the gardens were observed. The results reveal that the home gardens play a central role in the lives of the community's women, significantly contributing to family sustenance and promoting the participants' economic autonomy. Although production is primarily aimed at self-consumption, some surplus products are sold, generating additional income that contributes to improving the families' quality of life. The research also highlights the importance of continuous technical assistance for the success of the home gardens, especially for families still in the early stages of the project. The study concludes that productive home gardens not only strengthen food security and family economies but also promote gender equality and women's empowerment. By valuing the role of women in family farming, these initiatives are positioned as important instruments for social transformation in rural communities. However, to fully realize their potential, ongoing investments in public policies that provide technical support, adequate infrastructure, and access to markets for product commercialization are essential