PROMOTION OF SUSTAINABLE FAMILY FARMING IN QUILOMBOLA COMMUNITY “VAZ PEREIRA” IN TEÓFILO OTONI

Abstract

This project focuses on promoting family farming in the quilombola community of Vaz Pereira, located in São Julião II, Teófilo Otoni, with an emphasis on sustainable organic agriculture, particularly the cultivation of heirloom seeds. Heirloom seeds are varieties developed by family farmers and recognized for their unique characteristics. The goal is to improve the living conditions of quilombola families by promoting horticulture, agricultural diversification, and collective work. This will lead to healthier food, income generation through the sale of surplus products, sustainable soil management practices, and the cultivation of heirloom seeds. The Vaz Pereira quilombola community comprises four family nuclei and has been facing challenges related to water scarcity, improper soil management, and the migration of young people to urban areas. This project aims to address these issues by promoting agroecology, sustainable soil management, and product marketing. The project begins with the establishment of an agroecological community garden in the "Vaz" family nucleus and plans to expand to other nuclei. Workshops and training sessions will be offered to share knowledge on agroecological practices, pest management, organic fertilization, certification, and marketing. These actions aim not only to improve the living conditions of quilombola families but also to promote environmental and economic sustainability, reduce food insecurity, and strengthen family farming in the region. The sale of products in the institutional market, such as the Food Acquisition Program (PAA), has been beneficial for farmers, encouraging young people to stay in the countryside, contributing to social justice, food security, and citizenship in both rural and urban areas.