Acknowledgements

This research was made possible by the International Development Research Centre, which awarded me its yearly grant extended to journalism students in Canada to conduct international reporting work.

Thank you to Serah and Ronnie Mdawida. You were the best of hosts in Nairobi and made my introduction into the city much smoother than it otherwise could have been. Ben Mucha, thank you for your Swahili lessons over breakfast, and thanks to Agnes for keeping me well- fed when I went out to do my field work.

Thank you to my fixer, Abzed Osman. Without him, none of this would have been possible. As a Kibera local, he was my guide into the community, and occasional security guard. Thank you to his mother for allowing me into her family’s home and cooking me two delicious meals for Ramadan and my farewell.

Thank you to all the urban farmers who allowed me to interview them for this story. A special thank you goes to Maggie and Judy for allowing me into their homes and to meet their families. Thank you to Naimo for connecting me with Judy and providing me with a much needed perspective on the state of women in poverty within Kibera.

Thank you to the Mazingira Institute for allowing me to come to your events and allowing me to connect with some of the urban farmers, instructors and researchers who have come through your doors.

Thank you to my adviser Kanina Holmes for providing me with guidance and advice on a project so near to my heart.

Thank you to my mom, Jennifer Harford-Heiderich for supporting me through my travels and through the editing process.