Jeremy Wagner‘s dissertation defence.
Abstract
This dissertation critically examines the transformation of Nairobi’s food system within the context of rapid urbanization, retail liberalization, and the growing influence of supermarket economies. Drawing on extensive data from household surveys, policy analysis, and documentation research, it investigates the application of food system models—such as the supermarket revolution and food desert concepts—within the specific socio-economic and cultural dynamics of Nairobi. The findings reveal significant discordance between theoretical models developed in Global North contexts and the lived realities of Nairobi’s food system, which remains deeply intertwined with informal food economies. Despite the proliferation of supermarkets, informal food vendors continue to play a critical role in ensuring food security for low-income residents. Moreover, the study highlights the nuanced interplay of governance, inequality, and market dynamics, calling into question the efficacy of conventional models for addressing urban food security in the Global South.
The findings reveal the limitations of Global North-centric models in capturing the complexities of Nairobi’s food landscape. The supermarket revolution framework, which assumes linear retail formalization and enhanced food security, fails to account for the resilience of informal food economies. Informal vendors remain central to food security for low-income residents, offering accessible and culturally appropriate options. Conversely, supermarkets cater primarily to middle- and upper-income groups, with minimal impact on the food access challenges faced by lower-income households. The study also critiques the food desert concept, traditionally based on supermarket proximity, as inadequate for Nairobi’s context. Diverse food sources—including kiosks, street vendors, and informal markets—play a vital role in meeting residents’ food needs. Supermarkets contribute to the nutrition transition by promoting processed foods rather than addressing malnutrition or inequality. The persistence of informal food economies challenges assumptions of their displacement by formal retail development, demonstrating their enduring importance.
Governance emerges as a central theme, highlighting the tension between formal retail growth and the livelihoods of informal food vendors. The study critiques the exploitative practices of multinational retailers in local supply chains and the policy focus on formalization at the expense of inclusivity. Contributing to the fields of Southern urbanism, food systems, and global governance, this research challenges Eurocentric models and emphasizes the need for context-specific approaches in the Global South. It applies systems thinking to provide a nuanced understanding of Nairobi’s food system, underscoring the dynamic interplay between formal and informal systems. The dissertation concludes with a call for a paradigm shift in urban food security research and policymaking. Moving beyond simplistic, one-size- fits-all models, it advocates for inclusive strategies that prioritize local realities, equity, and resilience, providing a pathway for more sustainable and equitable urban food systems in the Global South.
Supervisor: Dr. Jonathan Crush
Committee: Dr. Andrea Brown and Dr. Bruce Frayne
Internal/External: Dr. Chris Anderson
External: Dr. Godwin Arku, University of Western Ontario
Chairperson Dr. Kathleen Clark
There are limited spaces available to attend the defence. Email events@balsillieschool.ca if you would like to attend virtually.
