Migration, rural-urban linkages and food insecurity

Abstract

This chapter focuses specifically on the linkages between migration and food insecurity in a rapidly-growing city. Windhoek has experienced significant rural-urban migration in recent years, especially since Namibia’s independence in 1990. Many migrants have settled in the northern and north-western areas of the city, primarily in the informal housing areas. Most of the migrant households are poor, food-insecure and female-centred. In an effort to mitigate their insecure food situation, they make use of various strategies including receiving food transfers, obtaining food from informal markets, and other informal methods.