Assessing the Role of Urbanisation and Climate Change on Urban Food Production and Land Access in Selected KwaZulu-Natal Areas

Abstract

The rising demand for urban land use affects urban development and agricultural land use. This study assessed the role  of urbanisation and climate change with a focus on the effect of water quality and soil fertility on urban food production.  A mixed methodology approach was employed. The results of the fresh river water sample analysis  demonstrated that uMsunduzi consistently exceeded the recommended water quality, whereas stored river water was  of higher quality due to innovative farmer practices and may serve as a replacement. There were significant differences  in soil nutrient properties, demonstrating the complexity and diversity of urban soils, which are influenced by  management practices, environmental disturbances, and environmental factors. River-sourced irrigation water is a  source of pathogenic microorganisms in food production. Ensuring the quality of irrigation water and soil fertility is  critical in promoting sustainable urban agriculture and food security. Achieving a nutritious food basket from a farmer’s  garden is not always possible, despite farmers’ efforts, due to limitations such as land access and size, water quality and  information.