Food Security and Urban Development. Case Study: Adama City

Authors: Shenko Chura Aredo

Abstract:

Food security and urban development are increasingly intertwined issues in rapidly growing cities, particularly in the Global South. This study explores the dynamics of food security within the context of urban development in Adama City, Ethiopia, a rapidly urbanizing center with a population that is heavily dependent on agriculture and vulnerable to food insecurity. The research examines the challenges and opportunities for achieving food security in the face of urbanization, including land use changes, population growth, infrastructure development, and climate variability. By analyzing local food systems, access to food markets, urban agriculture, and social safety nets, the study highlights the gaps between urban expansion and sustainable food provisioning. Findings suggest that while urban development offers potential for improved infrastructure and economic opportunities, it also exacerbates challenges such as land scarcity, unequal access to resources, and the marginalization of smallholder farmers. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for integrated urban planning that includes food security considerations, improved urban agricultural practices, and investments in resilient food systems. The case of Adama City offers valuable insights into the broader implications of urbanization for food security, particularly in cities facing rapid growth and resource constraints.

Keywords: food, security, urban, development, sustainability