Opportunities and challenges of urban farming in Ethiopia: Evidence from vegetable producers in Addis Ababa

Abstract

In the context of productivity challenges confronting urban residents in developing nations like Ethiopia, a burgeoning trend is emerging whereby individuals are turning towards vegetable cultivation as a strategy to enhance food security. This research endeavor seeks to explore the barriers faced by vegetable growers and the promising prospects for urban agriculture in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Employing a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, the study leveraged household surveys, focus group dialogues, interviews, and desk assessments to collect data. The selection of households for participation was executed through probability sampling. Examination of the household survey findings encompassed descriptive statistical analyses along with correlation and regression studies. The impediments associated with urban vegetable cultivation were scrutinized utilizing a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis in conjunction with a Force Field Analysis. The outcomes of the study underscore favorable inclinations among respondents towards vegetable cultivation. Most producers contribute to household food availability, earn supplementary income, and value the sector's accessibility without necessitating substantial financial investments. Nonetheless, notable challenges within vegetable production operations include land access constraints, pest and disease issues, and water scarcities. Correlation assessments unveiled a robust positive link between fertilizer and seed accessibility levels. Furthermore, binary logistic regression models identified certain age and employment groups as being more predisposed to engage in leafy vegetable cultivation compared to other demographics. The study proposes opportunities for expanding existing production capacities, notably through initiatives like household food gardens. Moreover, there exists potential for augmenting community food sovereignty by harnessing local insights on urban vegetable cultivation practices.