Spatial-temporal Analysis of Linkage Between Urbanization and Urban Agriculture in Kigali City, Case study of Gahanga Cell..pdf

This research explores the spatial-temporal linkages between urbanization and urban agriculture in the Gahanga cell of Kigali City. The study examines the relationship between urbanization and urban agriculture, analyzing changes in land use land cover over a period of 39 years. By using Remote sensing, GIS, and statistical analysis, the study found that urbanization has been increasing and led to a decrease in agricultural land where there has been a significant increase in the built-up area which has grown from 5.91% in 1984 to 22.11% in 2023. This increase in urbanization has led to a reduction in cropland area, which has declined from 67.53% in 1984 to 55.77% in 2023. The study furthermore employed interviews, questionnaire surveys, and policy analysis to identify challenges, and opportunities that are present, the key factors that can influence the sustainability of urban agriculture in the face of rapid urbanization including sustainable agricultural practices that take nature-based solutions into account as well as new modern farming techniques. 25 Individuals were interviewed including residents, farmers, and local government officials. The study found that a larger number of farmers were affected by land use land cover change characterized by a significant increase of built-up areas and associated issues like climate change, increase of vacant plots due to land fragmentation and lack of agricultural resources. Based on data analysis, there is a close relationship between environmental issues and urban agricultural land distribution like soil erosion, flooding and loss of biodiversity. As it was found that, over 90% of interviewed farmers are interested in urban farming specifically in innovative and advanced ways, the study proposes practical strategies for promoting urban agriculture as a means of enhancing food security and sustainable urban development. Overall, the research provides valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and all agricultural stakeholders seeking to address the complex challenges of urbanization and food security in rapidly growing cities through holistic ways and win-win situations.