Prospects and problems of vertical greening within low-income urban settings in sub-Sahara Africa

Abstract Growing plants along the vertical axis of a building façade is currently re-emerging as technique for (re)integration greening into urban fabric. This article reports an exploratory study that involved design, development and evaluation within low-income communities in Lagos, Akure (Nigeria) Dar es Salaam (Tanzania). We highlight gardens’ contributions to food production (vegetables). Challenges identified include high maintenance, pests, vandalism, tenure status socio-cultural misgivings about growing vegetables on walls. It crucial evolve policy initiatives programmes promote citizen-led, community-based farming fabric sub-Sahara Africa.