Strategies for diversification of economic activities in villages of Saqez city using SWOC method and QSPM matrix

The diversification of economic activities in rural areas is considered as a strategy where rural households increase their income sources. The villages of Saqez city, despite having high environmental potential and capacity in different sectors, such as agriculture, have a poor livelihood and economic status. Therefore, the present article seeks to answer the following questions: What are the appropriate strategies for diversifying economic activities in the villages of Saqiz? The present study was conducted through descriptive-analytic method. In a survey method, SWOC analysis model and QSPM evaluation matrix, we presented appropriate strategies. To design a strategic model and determine the ranking of factors 20 from experts and also to factor out the factors of 300 villagers in the area. The study sample is selected as sample. The results of the SWOC model show that the existence of an appropriate ecosystem in the region for tourism development, the existence of four climates in the region and the possibility of cultivation in each season, as well as the presence of the leading farmers in the region, are the most important strengths against the weakness of the financial and economic context of many Villagers and traditional exploitation are the most important internal weaknesses for diversifying economic activities in the study area. Also, the results of this model indicate that in the external environment 34 opportunities have been identified, the attention of the authorities to the conversion and complementary industries, the border area and the suitable field for exporting agricultural products to the Iraqi countries, are the most important external opportunities and in contrast to 36 challenges and limitations. The key factors of the migration and exodus of elite educated to Tehran and neighboring provinces, climate change and increasing natural hazards such as floods and droughts are the most important external barriers affecting the diversification of economic activities in the villages of the study area. Also, the results indicate It gives diversification of the activities of the economy The studied villages should be focused on strengths and opportunities.