THE ROLE OF URBAN AGRICULTURE IN ENHANCING HOUSEHOLD ECONOMY AND WELLBEING IN SUBURBAN AREAS: WITH SPATIAL REFERENCE TO MAHARAGAMA DIVISIONAL SECRETARIAT DIVISION

Abstract

With growing urbanization and food security concerns, urban agriculture is seen as a sustainable practice that supports household income, food security, and overall well-being. It can be defined as the practice of cultivating crops in an urban environment. Maharagama Divisional Secretariat Division is an area with high urban development and rapid population growth. This study investigates the role of urban agriculture in enhancing household economy and well-being within the Maharagama DS Division. The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which urban agriculture contributes to the economic sustainability and overall well-being of households practicing it. This study was conducted as an exploratory study, therefore, a sample of 30 urban agriculture-practicing households was selected using a convenience sampling method, followed by simple random sampling to choose households within this group. Data were collected regarding different urban agriculture practices, economic outcomes, and well-being outcomes, and they were analyzed using chi-square tests, regression analysis, and qualitative methods to explore the relationships between urban agriculture practices, household economy, and well-being. Results revealed that there is a significant role of urban agriculture in enhancing household economy and well- being. Households practicing urban agriculture showed better improvements in household income, reducing expenditure and some limited potential of creating employment opportunities. Furthermore, the study shows a positive correlation between urban agriculture and improved physical health, mental health, and nutrition among participating households. The chi-square, regression analyses, and other qualitative methods indicated significant relationships of urban agriculture with household economy and wellbeing outcomes. The implications of this study suggest that promoting urban agriculture can play a vital role in enhancing household economy and well-being in urban areas, and policymakers and planners should focus on addressing challenges to maximize the benefits of urban agriculture for sustainable urban development.