Enhancing technical, organisational and institutional innovation in urban agriculture1

The article by Critchley et al (2007) presents important experiences gained in rural development programmes regarding how to support technological and socio-organisational innovation in farming systems. To what extent can such rural-based experiences be applied in the urban context? How do the specific urban conditions influence the process of innovation in urban farming systems? What are the main technological and socio-organisational challenges at hand in the urban context? In what ways can local innovation processes in urban farming systems best be supported? This article explores such questions in order to identify key factors that influence innovation in urban agriculture and to come up with ways in which to strengthen innovation processes within it. Agriculture under rural and urban conditions: some important differences The role of agriculture in local livelihoods Although rural people in most parts of the world engage increasingly in non-farm activities, agriculture remains their primary occupation and source of livelihood. Local farming and natural resource management knowledge and skills are generally passed on from elders to children. Cultural norms often define the division of tasks and responsibilities. The origin of the people involved in urban agriculture varies widely as does the contribution of agricultur