The association between urban land demarcation and household food insecurity among formal and informal settlements in southernDurban city, KwaZulu Natal

The study conducted a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between urban land demarcation and household food insecurity across three neighborhoods: Malukazi (MIS), Uganda Informal Settlements (UIS), and Isipingo Hills (IH). A total of ninety households stratified into thirty were systematically interviewed. Findings revealed that 80% participants from MIS and 66% from UIS regarded the establishment of vegetable gardens as a crucial strategy for food availability. Numerous respondents revealed dissatisfaction with housing and limited land, poses a significant barrier to the establishment of vegetable gardens in proximity to Reconstruction Development Plan (RDP) and informal settlements. Household food insecurity was predominantly linked to high unemployment rates, low-income levels and reliance on social grants. Majority resort to selling scrap materials to boost income, having living spaces less than 3x3 m². Conversely, IH Respondents reported higher levels of satisfaction regarding employment and income levels that exceeded the poverty threshold. Additionally, they benefit from adequate housing and land availability. The study elucidates notable disparities in living standards among the three neighborhoods. Household food consumption score categorizes MIS as food insecure at 66% classified as "poor" and UIS at 53% consuming only 3 of the 8 food groups in household dietary diversity score. IH demonstrated borderline scores 56% of households and 33% had acceptable scores. Findings underscore the critical need for enhanced institutional support and more effective government policies. The current framework resulted in significant food insecurity and dissatisfaction with housing. Therefore, the government must prioritize the resolution of land inequality issues and promote initiatives that improve urban food security.