Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
193 results(2 / 8)
The Role of Urban Planning in Strengthening Urban Food Security in Africa: Insights from Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa
2025Leemisa Simon Matooane, Abraham R. Matamanda, Johannes Bhanye, Verna Nel · Urban Forum · Africa
This paper examines how urban planning affects food security in Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The analysis identifies common challenges in urban food systems, including urban agriculture integration, food distribution, spatial inequalities, and collaborative governance. Findings suggest that proactive, innovative urban planning tailored to socio-economic contexts can significantly enhance food security.
PolicyFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityEconomicsCultivating communities: Understanding motivations in urban gardening among low-income residents in Cape Town, South Africa
2025Tinashe P. Kanosvamhira · Journal of Agriculture Food Systems and Community Development · South Africa (Cape Town)
This study investigated the motivations for urban gardening among low-income residents in Cape Town's Cape Flats, South Africa, using survey data from 97 participants and interviews across 34 community gardens. While 29 out of 34 gardens prioritized income generation, a tension was found between institutional economic objectives and individual gardeners' motivations. Although 76.3% cited economic reasons, all respondents also valued social, health, and environmental benefits, perceiving gardening as a means to enhance well-being and promote sustainable practices despite structural barriers.
CommunityHealthEconomicsPolicyFactors affecting the growth of micro and small scale enterprises, addis ababa city administration, ethiopia
2025Tanvir Ahmed · European Economic Letters (EEL) · Ethiopia (Addis Ababa)
This study examined factors influencing the growth of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), including urban agriculture, in Bahir Dar city administration, Ethiopia, surveying 385 business owners, managers, service providers, and local leaders. Multiple regression analysis found that entrepreneurial traits, management and marketing abilities, technology, access to funding, market sufficiency, and legal/regulatory frameworks affect MSE growth. However, the survey revealed that many MSEs received lengthy and intricate legal notices, indicating a need for simpler government processes for licensing and registration.
Governance failureEconomicsPolicyResilience in Food Systems – Response and Adaptation to Shocks and Disruptions: The Case of the Phillipi Horticultural Area in Cape Town, South Africa
2025A. Bayat, H. Govera · Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir landbouvoorligting/South African journal of agricultural extension · South Africa (Cape Town)
This study descriptively investigated the vulnerability to shocks and pressures of the Philippi Horticultural Area (PHA), a key urban food-producing region in Cape Town, South Africa. Data were collected through surveys with stakeholders from government, the private sector, NGOs, private individuals, and informal settlers. Key findings revealed insufficient governance commitment, a lack of multi-stakeholder collaboration, and the growing threat of urban development on agricultural land.
Governance failurePeri-urban agriculturePolicyFood sovereignty & justiceUrban–rural linkageAnalyzing the prospects and hurdles of urban agriculture an examination of economic landscapes and versatile approaches in Ethiopia
2025Mohammed Adem Ali, B. Lilly Grace Eunice · Discover Sustainability · Ethiopia
Urban agriculture in Ethiopia is a vital livelihood strategy, contributing to employment, income, and food security. Despite its significant contributions to GDP and urban employment, its potential is insufficiently utilized due to structural obstacles. These hurdles include restricted access to land and water, deficient regulatory frameworks, poor institutional support, social stigma, and environmental risks, and it is insufficiently acknowledged in urban development strategies.
Governance failureEconomicsFood sovereignty & justicePolicyCommunityAVALIAÇÃO DE PROCEDIMENTOS QUE GARANTAM A ADVOCACIA NA PERSPECTIVA DOS SISTEMAS ALIMENTARES, POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS, LOGÍSTICA ALIMENTAR E RESILIÊNCIA URBANA NA CIDADE DE QUELIMANE-2025
2025Moçambique MANI TESE, Franscisco Monteiro Chimote, Paulo Xavier Tebulo · Revista fisio&terapia. · Mozambique
A study conducted in Quelimane, Mozambique, analyzed the procedures and challenges for ensuring advocacy for sustainable food systems. The research highlighted institutional fragmentation, the absence of urban agriculture regulation, and precarious logistics as critical obstacles. While community micro-strategies and urban gardens were identified as potential catalysts for transformation, the study concluded that strengthening local governance and multi-sectoral mobilization are fundamental.
Governance failurePolicyFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityClimate changeIMPACT OF URBANIZATION PRESSURES ON SOCIOECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN NIGERIA.
2025Khalid Umar, Hamza Abba, UM Sani, M.D KWAIRANGA · JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND LEGAL STUDIES NORTH-EASTERN UNIVERSITY GOMBE · Nigeria
This review explores the multifaceted effects of urbanization pressures in Nigeria, including environmental degradation, urban poverty, housing shortages, and public health challenges. Case studies from major cities like Lagos, Kano, Ibadan, and Gombe demonstrate innovative responses such as sustainable urban planning, waste management, flood mitigation, and urban agriculture. The study emphasizes the urgent need for inclusive policies, community engagement, and sustainable strategies to promote resilient and equitable urban development in Nigeria.
PolicyEconomicsClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceUrbanization, Climate Change, and Food Insecurity: A Triple Threat to Kiambu Sub-County, Kenya
2025Stella Kasiva Mbiti, Micah Makworo, Brenda Waruinu Githinji, Christine Sabwa · · Kenya
This study explored the inter-linkages of urbanization, climate change, and food insecurity in Kiambu Sub-County, Kenya. Findings show urbanization leads to dramatic land use changes, diminishing agricultural land, and exacerbated climate risks and food insecurity. The study identified institutional weaknesses, poor planning, limited regulatory frameworks, and political interference as key drivers of unsustainable urban growth and reduced food production.
Governance failureFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changePolicyUrban–rural linkageThe effect of Ethiopia's land certification program on rural and peri-urban farmers' land tenure security; evidence from Tigray
2025Tesfay, Hailay, Machethe, Charles · AgEcon Search (University of Minnesota, USA) · Ethiopia (Tigray)
This paper examines the effect of Ethiopia's land certification program on the land tenure security of rural and peri-urban farming households in the Tigray region. Analyzing cross-sectional data from 500 respondents using logistic regression, the study showed that the program's effect is significantly influenced by the geographic location of farm households. The program produced better results for rural farmers than for peri-urban farmers, with certified households in rural areas being less likely to experience a change in their land tenure (less secure land tenure) compared to certified farmers in peri-urban areas.
Governance failurePeri-urban agriculturePolicyEconomicsCommunityRecreational Community Gardens: a Study on Their Role In Promoting Well-being and Social Cohesion Among Housing Estate Residents In Fct Abuja
2025Ebimorboere endoni, Ibrahim Umar, Patrick Chukwuemeke Uwajeh, Timothy Onosahwo Iyendo, olawepo ibidolapo · Nile Journal of Engineering and Applied Science · Nigeria
This research investigates the role of community recreational gardens in fostering social cohesion among residents in urban housing estates in FCT Abuja, Nigeria, using a mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and observational studies. Key findings indicate that community recreational gardens serve as inclusive environments, promoting cross-generational interactions, cultural exchange, and the formation of social networks in housing estates.
CommunityHealthPolicyChallenges and Opportunities of Urban Agriculture in Major Towns Practicing Urban Agriculture in Ethiopia: A Review
2025Etefa Tilahun Ashine · International Journal of Agricultural Economics · Ethiopia
This review examines the challenges and opportunities of urban agriculture in Ethiopia, where urbanization and living costs are rising. Key challenges include limited access to land, irrigation water, and financial institutions, as well as high prices for fertilizers and pesticides, and climate variability affecting crop yields. Opportunities include strong market demand for products, employment creation for youth and women, and additional income generation for producers. The study concludes that stronger policy support and investment are needed to enhance urban agriculture's contribution.
Governance failurePolicyEconomicsCommunityUrban–rural linkageRooftop Agriculture in the Urban Global South: The Experience of Johannesburg
2025Jayne M. Rogerson · Modern Geográfia · South Africa (Johannesburg)
This article examines the organization and current state of rooftop agriculture in Johannesburg, South Africa, drawing on existing material. Johannesburg hosts the largest cluster of rooftop farms, primarily established for social considerations, with fewer projects for commercial reasons or business image enhancement. The study investigates the challenges confronting these rooftop farming projects.
Governance failureCommunityEconomicsPolicyUrban Farming Practices and Constraints to Urban Agriculture in Bauchi Metropolis
2025Yusuf Kamaluddeen Ibrahim, Zabawi Abdul Ghani, Rasheed Osuolale Oladosu, O. D. Idris,, Tamwesigire Caleb · Journal of Innovative Research · Nigeria (Bauchi)
In Bauchi metropolis, Nigeria, urban farming practices and constraints were investigated among 285 urban farmers. Findings revealed that most farmers do not own land, instead borrowing or renting it. The major constraints to urban agriculture were reported as lack of tenure security, limited land area, and poor access to microcredit facilities.
Governance failureFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsCommunityPolicyThe Role of Urban Farming in Enhancing Food Security and Sustainability in Lagos Metropolis: A Stakeholder Analysis
2025S Aliyu, Okhimamhe A. A, I. M. Sule · International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science · Nigeria (Lagos)
This study explored the role of urban farming in enhancing food security and sustainability in the Lagos Metropolis through focus group discussions and quantitative surveys with various stakeholders, including policymakers, urban farmers, and community members. Findings suggest urban farming's potential to reduce food transportation distances, enhance local food production, and mitigate climate change impacts. However, challenges such as land demands and gender disparities persist, necessitating integrated policy approaches and targeted educational programs.
Equity & displacementFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeCommunityPolicyPeri-urbanization and smallholder farmers’ socio-economic marginality in peri-urban Addis Ababa
2025Girma Mulu Alemu, Sophie Schramm, Wilbard Kombe · Cogent Social Sciences · Ethiopia (Addis Ababa)
This qualitative study in peri-urban Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, explored the impacts of peri-urbanization on smallholder farmers' socio-economic conditions. The research found that peri-urbanization leads to the erosion of capital assets, with dwindling agricultural land causing tenure insecurity and disrupting livelihoods. This process exacerbates smallholder farmers' marginality by weakening social ties and mutual support systems.
Equity & displacementPeri-urban agriculturePolicyEconomicsCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceEffect of Forced Eviction and Land Grabs on Household Economic Capital Security of Displaced Pre-Urban Farmers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
2025Kejela Gnamura, Michael Akwasi Antwi, A Belete · Land · Ethiopia (Addis Ababa)
This mixed-methods study investigated the effects of urbanization-induced displacement on economic capital security by comparing 223 evicted and 223 non-evicted peri-urban farming households in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Logistic regression and thematic content analysis revealed that evicted households are approximately 72.7% less likely to achieve economic security compared to non-evicted households. The study concluded significant differences in household economic capital security between the two groups.
Equity & displacementPeri-urban agricultureEconomicsPolicyCommunityWelfareAnalysis of Pressure Drivers within an Urban River Riparian Reserve: A Case of Nairobi River in Kenya
2025Mahacla Odongo, Caleb Mireri, Peter Mwangi · Environmental Technology and Science Journal · Kenya (Nairobi)
The Nairobi River riparian reserve in Kenya has undergone immense land use and land cover changes over the past 20 years due to urban development. A survey of 650 respondents revealed that urban agricultural activities dominated the upper segment at 69%, commercial ventures constituted 79% of the middle segment, and residential usage comprised 89% in the lower segment. These activities caused significant degradation from crop cultivation of river slopes, pollution infiltration, and loss of biodiversity, indicating a severe depletion of the riparian space's functions.
Environmental trade-offsBiodiversityPolicyTowards urban food system transformation in South Africa
2025Emmanuel Ndhlovu · Discover Sustainability · South Africa
This article critically analyzed food system policies and actions in four South African cities, drawing from grey and academic documents. It found that the government is failing to achieve food security, with approximately 58 million people facing food insecurity in 2023. The study concludes that transforming South African food systems requires coherent policies, shortened supply chains, integration of food into urban planning, and increased support for farmers, among other actions.
Governance failurePolicyFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsUrban–rural linkageLand Use Changes and Implications for Food Production Planning in Peri-Urban Ruiru Sub-County, Kenya
2025Fuchaka Waswa, Duncan Gichabe, Ruth Kahuthıa-Gathu · Journal of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO · Kenya (Ruiru)
This study investigated land use changes in Ruiru Sub-County, Kenya, from 1988 to 2024 using GIS. By 2024, agricultural land had decreased by 45.62%, while urban land use increased by 509%, and bare/rocky areas rose by 133% due to abandoned stone mining. The decline in agricultural land leads to reduced industrial crop areas and a shift to leafy vegetables, with an expected increase in agro-chemical use in intensive peri-urban farming.
Environmental trade-offsPeri-urban agriculturePolicyFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeUrban farming system and food security in sub-Saharan Africa: Analysis of the current status and challenges
2024· Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems, Wiley Online Library · Sub-Saharan Africa
2024 analysis of urban farming systems and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. Examines role of agriculture in improving urban food security, necessity of public-private partnerships, informal sector positioning, and prospects for addressing urban food insecurity in Africa.
PolicyThe institutionalisation of urban community gardens in Cape Town, South Africa
2024Kanosvamhira T. P. · Area · South Africa (Cape Town)
Analyses how the state institutionalises Cape Town's community gardens along neoliberal lines. Argues state support cultivates neoliberal subjectivities and regulates production, diminishing the gardens' potential to advance food justice in historically disadvantaged communities.
PolicyCommunityLand Use/Cover Dynamics and its Implication on the Sustainability of Urban Agriculture in Selected Urban Centers of Ethiopia
2024Ashagrie Gibtan, Wondwosen Abera, Mekuria Delelegn, Molla Maru, Adamu Emiru · Ochrana prírody Slovenska/Ekológia · Ethiopia
Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) dynamics were analyzed in four Ethiopian cities—Addis Ababa, Hawassa, Bahir Dar, and Adama—over 17 years from 2006 to 2022. SPOT 5 and Sentinel satellite imagery, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations were used. Findings revealed a rapid expansion of urban built-up areas, primarily at the expense of peri-urban horticultural lands, which has an adverse impact on the sustainability of urban agriculture.
Governance failureUrban–rural linkagePeri-urban agriculturePolicyEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceLinking policies and regulations to sustainable finance for the promotion of urban agriculture: Evidence from micro and small businesses
2024Goshu Desalegn, Anita Tangl, Mária Fekete‐Farkas, Girma Gudisa, Anita Boros · Heliyon · Ethiopia
A study of micro and small enterprises in Ethiopia showed that government policies and regulations have an insignificant direct effect on urban agriculture. However, sustainable finance plays an important mediating role between urban agriculture and government policies, indicating that the impact of government policies and regulations on urban agriculture is indirect.
PolicyEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeLand cover changes and management effectiveness of protected areas in tropical coastal area of sub-Saharan Africa
2024Jeffrey Chiwuikem Chiaka, Gengyuan Liu, Hui Li, Wen Zhang, Mingwan Wu, Zhaoman Huo, F. Gonella · Environmental and Sustainability Indicators · Sub-Saharan Africa
This study evaluated land cover change and its drivers using spatial and statistical analysis in 22 designated protected areas (PAs) across the tropical coastal regions of sub-Saharan Africa. Results indicated that food production is prevalent in these protected areas regardless of their designation, and forest loss occurred in most PAs, suggesting weak conservation. Population density was the most significant driver of land cover change, and only 15 out of 22 protected areas showed an increase in their total ecosystem service value.
Governance failurePolicyUrban–rural linkageFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeBiodiversityLand Rental Transactions in Ethiopian Peri-Urban Areas: Sex and Other Factors for Land Rent Transactions
2024Sayeh Kassaw Agegnehu, Reinfried Mansberger, Moges Wubet Shita, Derjew Fentie Nurie, Ayelech Kidie Mengesha · Land · Ethiopia
This study in the East Gojjam Administrative Zone, Ethiopia, examined factors affecting land rental transactions using data from 353 household heads affected by expropriation. 58% of respondents participated in both renting and renting out land. 60% of female-headed households engaged in land rental transactions (14% renting in, 46% renting out), while 38% of male-headed households rented land (19% renting out). Sex, landholding size, number of oxen, participation in off-farm activities, and extension service were identified as significant determinants. Oral agreements and sharecropping were the most prevalent transaction methods.
Peri-urban agricultureEconomicsUrban–rural linkagePolicy