Abstract

Urban animal agriculture (UAA) in sub-Saharan Africa is a sustainable solution to address urban food insecurity and malnutrition due to population growth. However, it faces challenges such as gender inequality, climate change, inadequate legislation, and environmental degradation. UAA aims to enhance household food security and alleviate poverty but also faces environmental issues such as resource competition, water resource strain, improper manure management, greenhouse gas emissions, noise, and nuisance. Implementing gender-climate smart urban agriculture concepts can promote social sustainability. Sustainable UAA requires semi-intensive silvopastoral and mixed crop and livestock systems, which reduce agriculture's environmental impact and enhance local food production. Supporting small-scale urban farming initiatives and collaboration between farmers and local authorities can build resilience in urban animal agriculture communities. In conclusion, a triad approach is needed for sub-Saharan Africa to harness the potential of UAA for food security, livelihood enhancement, and environmental protection.