Assessment of selected urban agricultural enterprises on peoples’ welfare in Mbarara Municipality South Western Uganda

Abstract

This study assessed the contribution of urban agricultural enterprises to people’s welfare in Mbarara Municipality, South Western Uganda. It examined the agricultural enterprises practiced, their benefits to household welfare, constraints faced by urban farmers, and strategies used by municipal authorities to address these challenges. The study was motivated by the importance of urban agriculture as a source of food, income, and livelihoods despite policies that may restrict agricultural activities in urban areas. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview guides, and secondary sources, including reports and official documents. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), applying descriptive statistics, frequencies, and cross-tabulations. Findings showed that urban agriculture was common, with 92.5% of respondents confirming its presence. About 58.2% participated in urban agriculture and belonged to farmer groups, while 90.2% agreed that agricultural enterprises significantly improved people’s welfare. Inadequate funding was the major constraint, with 84.2% of respondents strongly agreeing that limited finances affected urban farming. Poor technology was also identified as a key challenge. The study concluded that urban agriculture contributes significantly to household income and food security. It recommends improved market information, microfinance services, technical and business extension training, supportive legal frameworks, access to suitable land, and strengthened farmer organizations to promote sustainable urban agriculture.