Seminar Productive Backyards: The Strength of Rural Women in Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

The Quintais Produtivos: Mulheres Rurais seminar, held on October 18 and 19, 2024, in Glória de Dourados and Ivinhema (MS), aimed to promote the exchange of experiences and training on sustainable food production practices, focusing on the inclusion of rural and indigenous women in school feeding programs, such as the National School Feeding Program (PNAE). During the event, experts and farmers shared knowledge on managing productive backyards, food security, production diversification, and best management practices. The seminar also discussed the impact of public policies aimed at family farming, such as PNAE, and highlighted the importance of valuing family farming in strengthening local food security. Furthermore, the event provided a space to reflect on the challenges faced by rural women and their strategies for overcoming economic and technical barriers. The activities offered an opportunity to strengthen the support network among women farmers and promote female empowerment in rural areas, contributing to sustainable development and the preservation of local biodiversity.