Análise do Programa Nacional de Fortalecimento da Agricultura Familiar (PRONAF) no município de Assaré-CE

Abstract

This research analyzes the operationalization of the National Program for Strengthening Family Farming (PRONAF) in the municipality of Assaré, Ceará, Brazil, focusing on the actors involved, the stages of implementation, the guidelines that govern the program, and the perceptions of beneficiary family farmers and program operators. The study aimed to analyze the operationalization of PRONAF in the local context, identifying its main bottlenecks and understanding the perceptions of the subjects involved. A qualitative approach was adopted, covering the period from 2023 to 2026, using document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and participant observation. Six beneficiary family farmers and three program operators were interviewed. The results indicated that PRONAF's operationalization occurs through coordination among different actors and institutions, showing, to a large extent, alignment with the program's regulatory guidelines. However, challenges were identified regarding insufficient technical assistance, documentary bureaucracy, digital inclusion difficulties, the time required for the analysis and release of proposals, and limitations in the operational capacity of institutions. Despite these challenges, participants expressed predominantly positive perceptions of the program, highlighting its contribution to investments and improvements in productive activities. It is concluded that the operationalization of PRONAF in Assaré, Ceará, is related to the institutional and operational capacities existing in the local context, highlighting the importance of coordination among different actors for the effectiveness of public policy.