Foodsheds and future scenarios for urban food systems in sub-Saharan Africa

Keywords: foodshed, socio-economic analysis, food accessibility, Kampala, sub-Saharan Africa
Abstract Type: Paper Abstract

Abstract

Food systems in sub-Saharan African cities are increasingly under pressure due to rapid urban sprawl and socio-economic change. While land conversion from cropland to built-up area is limiting the opportunity for urban agriculture, food demand is rising and urban diets are changing. Therefore, socio-economic segregation and urbanization can cause difficulties to access food. For the case study of Kampala (Uganda), we analyze the spatial dimension of the food system through the lens of a ‘foodshed’, the geographical area from which a population derives its food supply. Based on surveys with 747 households and 303 food vendors, we quantitatively analyze the difference in the food origin between households of various socio-economic groups. We demonstrate that urban agriculture comprises a significant portion of the foodshed, and is currently twice as important as international imports for Kampala’s food provision. Moreover, we use a land use model of urban sprawl to assess future scenarios for Kampala’s foodshed, and its dependence on urban agriculture in particular. This information is essential for urban planners who aim to develop strategies for more secure, just and sustainable African urban food systems.