Red Urbana de Huertas Como Alternativa de Economía Verde y Estrategia Sostenible de Seguridad Alimentaria en Comunidades Vulneradas de Floridablanca y Aguachica

Abstract

The study analyzes the relevance of an urban gardening network as an alternative green economy model and as a sustainable food security strategy in vulnerable communities in Floridablanca and Aguachica. Food insecurity in Colombia has worsened due to factors such as structural poverty, dependence on imports, and low agricultural productivity, critically affecting vulnerable groups, as evidenced by reports from the National Planning Department (DNP) and international organizations; to propose an urban gardening network that integrates economic, social, and environmental dimensions in order to strengthen food security and promote sustainable agroecological practices in the territories under study. Method: A qualitative approach was applied, with a descriptive, bibliographic, non-experimental cross-sectional design, using documentary review and interviews with key informants, specifically managers of the Asohelechales urban garden in Floridablanca, in order to understand local experiences, perceptions, and practices related to urban agriculture. Results: Critical conditions of vulnerability were identified, stemming from armed conflict, migration, socioeconomic inequality, and gaps in basic services; the potential of urban gardens to enhance social cohesion, generate food savings, strengthen local capacities, and promote solidarity-based economic processes was confirmed. The findings demonstrate that urban gardens represent a viable strategy for advancing toward sustainable food security, provided there is technical support, organizational strengthening, and alignment with public policies. The Asohelechales experience highlights that community organization, local leadership, and environmental education are key pillars for scaling these models into broader territorial networks.