Increasing recognition of urban and peri-urban agriculture: emerging declarations for its support and policy review

Abstract

The practice of urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) is receiving more recognition internationally, regionally and locally than was the case three decades ago. This paper, drawing largely from existing literature, highlights on the significance and ro ots of this development. There is greater awareness and understanding today that urban and peri-urban agriculture is contributing substantially to the challenges of feeding the poor urban masses especially in the developing countries, alleviating poverty, addressing hunger and food security and sustainable urban and environmental management. Through the great efforts of the Support Group on Urban Agriculture (SGUA), The Urban Agriculture Network (TUAN), International Development Research Centre (IDRC), International Network of Resources Centres on Urban Agriculture and Food Security, Netherlands (RUAF), United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Consultative Group on International Agriculture Research (CGIAR) and other international agencies and donors, regional networks on urban and peri-urban agriculture, several regional consultative seminars and workshops on urban and peri-urban agriculture were systematically organized. The municipal declarations in support of UPA are the outcomes. This is a great tribute to the increasing recognition of the practice of urban and peri-urban agriculture. We are all anxious to witness the impact of these declarations on policy reviews since UPA contributes to peoples‘ livelihoods. This paper highlights on the significance and roots of this development.

Keywords: Urban, peri-urban, agriculture, policy review