Resistência camponesa no perímetro irrigado das várzeas de Sousa: má distribuição das terras, saberes e práticas de manejo e desafios em períodos de seca e chuvosos.

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the difficulties faced by small farmers in the Várzeas de Sousa Irrigated Perimeter (PIVAS), located in the municipality of Sousa-PB. The aim was to understand the historical context of the project's implementation, its economic and social impact, as well as the contradictions present in access to land and water. The research also investigates the processes of peasant resistance and reterritorialization led by local farmers, in the light of authors such as Haesbaert (2004), Fernandes (2008) and Santos (2016). The methodology adopted was a qualitative and quantitative approach, with a bibliographic survey, analysis of official documents and application of questionnaires to farmers and managers of the perimeter. During the study, it was found that, although the project was presented as a mechanism for inclusion and development, the distribution of land favored business sectors and excluded many local residents. It was also observed that farmers have been appropriating the territory in symbolic and practical ways, facing adversity through traditional knowledge and daily resistance. The research highlighted the structural inequality in access to water resources, the precariousness of work and the limits of public policies in promoting social justice and sustainability. Finally, it is concluded that, although PIVAS has boosted regional agricultural production, its social effectiveness remains limited, reinforcing inequalities and requiring new strategies to strengthen family farming and peasant autonomy in the Sertão Paraibano. The reality studied points to the need for more inclusive, democratic and sustainable public policies for the Brazilian semi-arid region.