Has the growth of cities in Ghana anything to do with reduction in farm size and food production in peri-urban areas? A study of Bolgatanga Municipality

Abstract

Growth and expansion of urban areas often result in dramatic transformation of land use in cities in Ghana with implications for farming and food production, which is a major livelihood activity for some of the inhabitants. This study assessed the implications of urban growth on farming and food crop production in Bolgatanga Municipality using a mixed method research design. Household interview schedule and key informant interviews were employed in the collection of primary data. In addition, multi-temporal satellite data was used to analyze land use and land cover change in the Municipality. The findings revealed that urban growth, resulting from increase in population, residential and commercial developments, seem to engulf agricultural activities. There has been a dramatic expansion of built-up areas in the Municipality with adverse implications for farming and food production in the future. The study concludes that continuous unguided conversion of farmlands, woodland and shrubs into built-up areas in the Municipality is detrimental to farming and food production. The formulation and implementation of an urban planning policy, by the Municipal Assembly in conjunction with the Land Use and Spatial Planning Department and the Municipal Department of Agriculture, that incorporates zoning of fertile lands for farming purposes and encourages best farming practices is recommended.