Africa Urban Forum Calls for Sustainable Solutions to Address Rapid Urbanization Challenges

African cities are crucial drivers of the continent's economic and social development, contributing over 50% of Africa's GDP.

The inaugural Africa Urban Forum, held from September 4-6 in Addis Ababa, brought together key stakeholders to tackle the pressing challenges and opportunities presented by Africa's rapid urbanization. Under the theme “Sustainable Urbanization for Africa's Transformation – Agenda 2063,” the forum was co-organized by the Government of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission, in partnership with UN-Habitat and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

Urbanization: A Double-Edged Sword

African cities are crucial drivers of the continent's economic and social development, contributing over 50% of Africa's GDP. However, the rapid pace of urbanization has exacerbated challenges such as underdeveloped infrastructure, climate vulnerabilities, and socio-economic inequalities. Stephen Karingi, Director of the Regional Integration and Trade Division at the ECA, emphasized the urgent need for sustainable urban solutions, noting that by 2050, 60% of Africans are expected to reside in urban areas.

"The Time for Action is Now"

Speaking on behalf of ECA Executive Secretary Claver Gatete, Karingi stressed the importance of ensuring that African cities not only drive economic growth but also serve as models of sustainable and inclusive development. "The time for action is now, and with collective effort, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for all urban dwellers in Africa," Karingi stated.

Exploring Sustainable Urban Solutions

The Africa Urban Forum focused on financing options, forging partnerships, and advancing strategies for sustainable urbanization. The forum aimed to commit to actionable strategies that could transform urban landscapes across the continent. Karingi highlighted the importance of sound macroeconomic policies and development financing, emphasizing regional integration, economic diversification, and industrialization as key to enhancing Africa's economic resilience.

Infrastructure and Technology as Pillars of Modern Cities

To build modern, efficient cities capable of supporting sustainable development, Karingi stressed the need to prioritize infrastructure, technology connectivity, and reliable energy sources. He also pointed out the critical need to address climate change and food security to ensure that urban development is resilient to environmental changes.

Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Urbanization

The ECA is actively collaborating with member states, development banks, and private sector stakeholders to develop innovative financing mechanisms tailored to the unique needs of African cities. These partnerships aim to provide the necessary capital for sustainable infrastructure, affordable housing, and essential services. Additionally, the ECA is providing technical support for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and developing frameworks for climate-smart infrastructure projects.

Technology and Innovation in Urban Management

The ECA is also leveraging technology and innovation to improve urban management. Initiatives such as the Africa Urban Portal, which offers insights into urban development trends, are helping policymakers make informed decisions about sustainable urban growth. These efforts are in line with Agenda 2063, which envisions African cities that are livable, equitable, and resilient.

Expanding Municipal Fiscal Space

In partnership with UN-Habitat and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), the ECA is leading efforts to expand the municipal fiscal space in African cities. This initiative empowers local governments to generate and manage financial resources more effectively, enabling them to invest in critical infrastructure and services necessary for sustainable urban development.

The Africa Urban Forum marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, with a focus on creating sustainable and inclusive cities that contribute to the long-term prosperity of the continent.