Avaliação do impacto da comercialização de hortícolas na melhoria das condições de vida dos agricultores da localidade de Massaca distrito de Boane

Abstract

In the Boane district, horticulture is of fundamental importance for the sustainability of family farms, since it provides farmers with a monthly income, helps with family maintenance expenses and allows for improved food security. This study analyzed the contribution of vegetable sales to the quality of life of farmers in the Massaca area, Boane district. The analysis was based on the construction of a quality of life index for farmers, which included several indicators (health, education, housing, durable goods, housing aspects and transportation). The data used were obtained through interviews with farmers. The results showed that the vegetables produced and sold throughout the year are: lettuce, kale, cabbage, chili peppers, cucumber, pumpkin and beetroot, whose production regime is based on the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, irrigation with hand-held watering cans, and a low diversity of pesticides applied. Regarding quality of life, the results indicate that although the rates are relatively low, there were substantial improvements in the quality of life of farmers, resulting from the production and sale of vegetables, mainly in the indicators of health, transport, housing conditions and sanitary conditions.(TRADUÇAO NOSSA)