Zenú Indigenous Women: Traditions, Family Agriculture and Food Security

Mujeres Indígenas Zenúes: Tradiciones, Agricultura Familiar y Seguridad Alimentaria

Objective: Analyze food security and sovereignty, preserve ancestral productive systems and understand the quality and characteristics of these family productive units in comparison with other models in agricultural production led by indigenous women in San Antonio de Palmito, Sucre, Colombia. Method: A mixed, non-experimental and descriptive approach is adopted, with the participation of 127 indigenous women from 16 councils, aged between 18 and 82 years, selected through Simple Random Sampling (MAS). Results: The results highlight the importance and effectiveness of family farming led by indigenous women, evidenced in the ability to maintain their agricultural practices over time, despite challenges, contributing to food security and sovereignty, the preservation of practices traditional practices such as the use of native seeds, crop rotation based on ancestral knowledge, raising backyard animals with local foods and the application of agroecological methods, and environmental balance. Although food sovereignty and security are not fully achieved, 100% of those over 18 years of age are concerned about food availability; 70.5% experienced shortages; 67.9% unhealthy diet. 42% of children under 18 years of age face a lack of regular meals; 51.8% affected by shortages; In making decisions about what crops to plant and what animals to raise, indigenous women play a crucial role in diverse food production (includes traditional crops, vegetables, fruits, legumes, as well as the raising of small animals such as poultry). Conclusions: The conclusions highlight the importance of addressing food security in these households through solutions that include the provision of economic resources and food assistance programs. Women-led family farming is crucial in agricultural production, but faces gender obstacles. Supporting them promotes equity, sustainable development and preserves traditional agricultural practices, ensuring food security and environmental sustainability.