Food system flows and distribution for the Accra metropolis: Unfolding the policy dimensions

Abstract

The continuous growth of cities in developing countries portends the challenge of food provisioning. This study therefore examined the policy dimensions of food flows and distribution for the Accra metropolis. The study methodology involved review of policy documents, interviews with government officials and city authorities, and discussions with a cross-section of food commodity traders at the city’s markets. The study established that the city’s food region is very extensive with the principal food staples originating from distant areas. The city’s local markets (and numerous informal markets) are very important in the food distribution network. However, they are characterised by inadequate infrastructure, poor waste management and congestion in view of poor planning. There is no composite national policy on city food supply and distribution apart from discrete programmes that seek to encourage partnership between city authorities and the private sector for the development of market infrastructure. The paper advocates for comprehensive national policy to ensure well-defined rural-urban linkages and city level agenda for sustainable food access in the city.