Women Farmers' Participation in Family Food Security Development: A Narrative Study in Rural Sambas Regency

Abstract

This study aims to examine the participation of women farmers in the development of family food security in rural Sambas District. In the context of an agrarian society, women play an important role not only as actors of agricultural production but also as the main managers of food at the household level. This research used a qualitative approach with a narrative study method, which was conducted through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation of women farmers in several selected villages. The results of the study show that women actively manage their yards, produce processed foods, and regulate family consumption as adaptive strategies to maintain food security. Women's participation is driven by internal factors such as economic needs and local knowledge, as well as external factors such as support from women's farmer groups and empowerment programs from the government. However, their involvement still faces challenges such as limited access to land, training, and male dominance in community decision-making. Women's narratives reflect resilience, innovation, and collective spirit rooted in local wisdom in addressing food and household economic challenges. This study emphasizes that strengthening women's roles in local food systems is a crucial strategy for building inclusive and sustainable food security. Therefore, more gender-responsive policies, support for women's groups, and recognition of their tangible contributions to rural development are needed.