A level playing field? Improving market availability and access for small scale producers in Johannesburg, South Africa

Rapid urbanisation has resulted in an increase in urban poverty in the developing world. In response, some governments in developing nations are increasingly considering urban agriculture to combat poverty. However, understandings of formal intervention to link small scale urban food producers to urban markets are still limited. This paper will present findings from a tentative study of the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market; a farmers' market located in Johannesburg, Gauteng province, South Africa. Results from a survey of urban farmers suggest that a free market economy may not provide equal benefit between large and small scale urban producers. Key findings reveal that beneficial relationships and risk-sharing mechanisms are key for urban producers to access this urban market.

► Small scale farmers are struggling to gain market access, despite to government supported market initiatives.
► Survey results suggest that a free market economy may not provide equal benefit between large and small scale urban producers.
► Beneficial relationships and risk-sharing mechanisms are key for urban producers to access this urban market.