| dc.description.abstract |
Urban agriculture has emerged as an important means of survival for many. It is not only a means of improving
household food security and nutrition, but also a source of income, employment and a means to social and
economic empowerment especially for urban poor. However, it has been characterized by restrictive policies
and practices prevalent in many urban areas in Africa as well as limited access. Mobility has been identified as
an important factor in mediating access to livelihood for individuals and for their households. However, the role
of mobility in shaping access and functioning of urban agriculture has received tangential treatment in urban
agriculture research. On the other hand, interpersonal relationships and social networks are central to promoting
access to livelihood activities. Nevertheless, there is dearth of information on how relational connectivities
impact on access and participation in urban agriculture. This study was intended to offer important insights into
understanding the dynamics of how mobility and relational connectivities are integral to urban faming as a
livelihood option to urban residents. The theoretical perspective that guided this study was the social practice
theory. The research was conducted through a survey method using concurrent mixed method approach. Data
were collected using questionnaire, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observation.
The study participants were drawn from three purposively selected informal settlements in Eldoret City that is,
Langas, Huruma and Munyaka. The study generated both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data
were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Chi-square was used to determine the relationship
between gender and the influence of mobility in access to urban farming. Qualitative data were transcribed and
analyzed deductively through themes. The results revealed that mobility plays an import role in access to farming
space mainly through enabling connection to or reaching the person/people who enabled acquisition of the
farming space, providing the means or platform to reach and locate the farming space and obtaining information
on the availability of the farming space. The results of the study further revealed that gender had no significant
influence on mobility impact on access to farming space. In terms of access to market, the results of the study
showed that mobility influenced access to the market for farm produce mainly through the connection to the
people who help the urban farmer get market for their products, aided their ability to locate and reach the market
and helped in obtaining information on where to sell the farm products. It also aided in obtaining agricultural
technologies and innovations by the farmers. Finally, the results revealed that interpersonal relationships and
social networks (relational connectivities) are central to promoting access and participation in urban farming
mainly through family relationship and friendship ties. This study highlights the importance of human mobility
and relational connectivities in advancing urban farming particularly among poor urban dwellers |
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