Urban farming is carving out a niche in the bustling cities of sub-Saharan Africa, especially as urban populations swell and food insecurity looms larger than ever. A recent analysis led by Razak Kiribou from the Africa Center of Excellence for Climate Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation at Haramaya University sheds light on the current state of urban agriculture and its potential to bolster food security in these rapidly growing urban centers.
As of 2022, over 42% of the sub-Saharan African population was living in urban areas. This shift has brought about a slew of challenges, including heightened poverty levels, unemployment, and a worrying uptick in food insecurity. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated these issues, revealing just how fragile urban food systems can be. Kiribou’s review, published in Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems, analyzed 46 articles and institutional reports to piece together the landscape of urban farming in the region.
“Urban farming isn’t just about growing food; it’s about creating a resilient urban ecosystem,” Kiribou emphasizes. The analysis shows that while urban farming primarily revolves around horticultural practices, it also plays a crucial role in improving food supply chains, generating jobs, and reducing transportation costs. Fresh produce becomes more accessible, and it helps mitigate food loss, which is a significant concern in many cities.
However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The review highlights several barriers, including inadequate urban governance and policies that often overlook the importance of urban agriculture. Access to land and water remains a contentious issue, and many aspiring urban farmers struggle to secure the necessary financing and technical support. Environmental pollution further complicates matters, threatening both the health of urban dwellers and the viability of farming practices.
Kiribou notes that only a mere 3.62% of sub-Saharan African countries have rolled out national urban governance policies with a focus on urban farming. “There’s a pressing need for a coordinated approach that combines urban policies with technological innovation,” he argues. This integration could pave the way for more resilient food systems that can withstand the pressures of climate change and population growth.
As urban farming continues to evolve, it holds the promise of not just addressing immediate food security concerns but also contributing to broader sustainable development goals. By fostering local food production, cities can reduce their reliance on imported goods, stabilize prices, and enhance community well-being.
This research serves as a clarion call for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders in the agriculture sector to recognize the untapped potential of urban farming. The insights gleaned from Kiribou’s work could very well shape the future of food systems in sub-Saharan Africa, steering them towards a more sustainable and secure path.