Urban agriculture in Nairobi slums represents a significant but understudied area of food security policy and development dynamics. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with local farmers and policy makers, participant observation of agricultural activities, and archival review of relevant government documents, to understand the dynamics shaping urban agriculture in Nairobi’s slums. The analysis reveals a significant proportion (40%) of surveyed households rely on urban agriculture for their food security, indicating its critical role despite challenges such as limited access to land and resources. Urban agriculture plays a crucial yet underappreciated role in enhancing food security policies within Nairobi’s slums. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating these practices into broader socio-economic development strategies. Policy makers should prioritise supporting urban agriculture initiatives, including securing land rights and providing access to resources such as irrigation systems and market linkages to improve sustainability and efficacy.