Role of Sugarcane Cultivation for Panela Production in the Livelihood Strategies of Peasant Families in the Colombian Amazon

Abstract

AbstractOne of the most important livelihoods for rural households in Colombia is the cultivation of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) to produce panela. We analyzed livelihood strategies associated with sugarcane cultivation for panela production and their impacts on rural households' wellbeing in Caquetá, southern Colombia. We selected 81 rural households to gather data to calculate correlations between capitals and identify community capital indicators. Our results identified three types of producers: Avant-garde, Traditionalists, and Diversifiers, each with specific characteristics that need to be taken into consideration when designing sustainable development policies for rural communities. We recommend increased input from panela producers into such policy making strategies to address their specific needs and strengthen their wellbeing.