Urbanisation, characterised by the migration of populations from rural to urban areas, poses a significant challenge to ensuring food security in Africa. This trend, driven by factors like population growth and rural-to-urban migration, has been witnessed across countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Sudan. However, the unplanned and uncontrolled nature of urbanisation has led to the encroachment upon peri-urban agricultural lands, displacing farmers and hindering efforts to achieve food security.
In response to these challenges, policymakers must adopt holistic strategies that go beyond conventional land-use policies. While sustainable urban planning is essential, it must be accompanied by measures to empower local communities and smallholder farmers. One approach could involve establishing community land banks that protect peri-urban agricultural areas from speculative land development, ensuring long-term access to productive land for farming.
Collaborative efforts between government agencies, local communities, and civil society organisations are crucial for implementing these strategies effectively. By integrating social, economic, and environmental considerations into urban development plans, African countries can achieve a balance between urban growth and agricultural preservation, ensuring sustainable food production for future generations.