ABSTRACT
Food security remains a growing challenge of the modern day, particularly in rising urban areas. Its effects are worsened by other factors such as soil and land degradation, water scarcity, and climate change. The situation is worse in African countries whose vulnerability is higher and the coping ability of the continent is lower. This research examines the problem of food security in African cities using a bibliometric analysis and suggests measures towards improved food security for sustainable growth and smartness of African urban areas. Findings showed that research regarding food insecurity in African cities is growing as a result of greater awareness of food insecurity. However, publications, collaborations, co-citations, and co-authorship with researchers and institutions of developing countries were limited compared to developed nations, due to their research and financial capabilities. Measures such as improved planning, good governance, improved logistics, adoption of integrated food security systems, and the new urban agenda were suggested as enhancers to food security. These coupled with intensified research and development on extensive urban and rural agriculture could be tickets to smart, sustainable, and food secure African cities.
