Uganda: Why urban farming may be an answer to declining farmland
Mr Robert Mugabe, the mayor of Mbarara City, says urban farming cannot be practiced without control
By Rajab Mukombozi
Monitor
January 07, 2023
Excerpt:
You also need to be aware of urban laws and regulations. In some urban areas there are restricted activities and zoning regulations. For example, you cannot be allowed to keep livestock in the central business areas.
“You cannot keep goats and cows to roam in the city streets, we will confiscate them, charge you and auction them. Urban farming is regulated, build structures for your animals and keep them there,” said Mr Mugabe.
Like any other farming or business urban farmers face challenges in accessing funds. Urban farming ensures food security but also assumes a profit motive and this means it requires strategic investment which demands for some level of financing to ensure quality production.
Urban farming also faces competition so you have to ensure there is quality and sustainable production.
Before you start urban farming ensure that you put in consideration climate change effects and make sure you have a provision of water supply on your farm.
Other challenges include limited space, pests and diseases, poor soil quality.
