THE FUTURE OF URBAN AGRICULTURE

AS the world’s population continues to grow, urban areas are becoming the primary hubs of human activity. By 2050, an estimated 80 per cent of food will be consumed in cities, placing immense pressure on urban food systems to be sustainable and resilient. Urban agriculture, which involves growing food within city environments, is increasingly recognised as a solution to meet this demand. From the thriving urban gardens in Cape Town to peri-urban farming initiatives in Kenya, urban agriculture is transforming food systems across Africa. But where does Eswatini stand in this movement? And how can young people become the driving force behind food security and nutrition in cities?

The global context: Urban agriculture in action
Urban agriculture is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity. In Cape Town, urban farming projects are taking root in communities to tackle food insecurity while promoting environmental sustainability. The city’s Urban Agriculture Policy, launched in 2007, supports community gardens, micro-farms, and home-based food production. These initiatives are helping to reduce food deserts, create jobs, and empower residents to take control of their food supply.

Similarly, Kenya has embraced urban and peri-urban agriculture as part of its strategy to feed its growing urban population. Projects range from rooftop gardens to small-scale livestock farming in densely populated areas. These initiatives are not just about growing food but they also play a crucial role in waste management, recycling organic waste to create compost, and supporting circular economy models.

The Eswatini landscape: A missing urban agriculture policy
While neighboring countries are reaping the benefits of urban agriculture, Eswatini still lacks a formal Urban Agriculture Policy. This absence leaves a significant gap in the country’s ability to address food security challenges in its urban areas. The need for such a policy is particularly urgent given that 30 per cent of waste in Eswatini’s landfills consists of food waste. This waste could be redirected to composing initiatives that support urban farming, but without a policy framework, efforts remain fragmented and unsupported.

The lack of a policy also means that urban agriculture is not integrated into city planning or national strategies for food security and economic development. Yet, with urbanisation on the rise, the country cannot afford to ignore the potential of urban agriculture to contribute to food security, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience.

The role of young people in urban agriculture
Young people in Eswatini are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in urban agriculture. As digital natives and agents of change, they can bring innovative ideas, energy, and a passion for sustainability. Young people can take advantage of the growing demand for local, fresh produce by starting urban farming businesses. From hydroponic systems in small spaces to rooftop gardens, youth-led agribusinesses can supply urban markets while creating job opportunities.

Social enterprises focusing on organic and sustainable farming methods can also attract support from impact investors and development partners. The integration of technology in agriculture, often called AgriTech, offers exciting opportunities for young people. By leveraging mobile apps, data analytics, and smart farming technologies, youth can optimise crop production, monitor soil health, and connect directly with consumers. Platforms that connect urban farmers with buyers could reduce food wastage and increase income for farmers.

Young people are natural community mobilisers and can drive awareness campaigns that promote the benefits of urban agriculture. Whether through social media or community workshops, they can educate residents on how to grow food at home, reduce food waste, and participate in urban gardening initiatives. Young people are key advocates for the policies that will shape the future. By engaging in dialogues with policymakers, they can push for the creation of an Urban Agriculture Policy in Eswatini. Youth networks and organisations can also collaborate to create policy briefs, organise events, and showcase the benefits of urban agriculture.

Urban agriculture holds immense potential for Eswatini, but it requires the energy, innovation, and commitment of young people to unlock this potential. By addressing the food security and nutritional needs of growing urban populations, youth-led initiatives can transform cities into resilient, sustainable hubs of food production. However, this can only be achieved if there is support from both government and the private sector, starting with the development of a comprehensive Urban Agriculture Policy.

Eswatini’s young people have the power to shape a future where urban agriculture is not just an alternative but a mainstream solution to food security. By embracing technology, entrepreneurship, and advocacy, they can lead the way in creating a thriving, sustainable food system that nourishes both people and the planet. The time to act is now.

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