Strategy for Agropolitan Area Development Supported by Community Participation in Rural Industry Development

Abstract

This study aims to identify optimal strategies for the development of an agropolitan area based on community participation in Tigapanah Village, Karo Regency. Utilizing the SWOT analysis approach (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), the study explores the dynamics of internal and external factors affecting the sustainability of the agropolitan area while formulating strategic steps to enhance efficiency and productivity. Primary data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews with community leaders, farmer groups, and local industry actors, as well as questionnaires involving 150 respondents. The findings reveal that community participation reached 70%, while horticultural commodities such as potatoes, cabbage, and carrots represent the leading assets of the area. Nevertheless, challenges such as limited infrastructure, restricted access to advanced technology, and dependency on middlemen remain significant barriers. To address threats like climate change and market price fluctuations, the recommended strategies include infrastructure improvement, diversification of horticultural products, institutional capacity building for farmers, and synergistic collaboration among the government, the community, and the private sector. The implementation of these strategies is expected to strengthen Tigapanah Village as a productive, competitive, and sustainable agropolitan area.