Economy
AFRICAN cities are vital to the continent’s economic and social development, contributing over 50 per cent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
However, the rapid pace of urbanisation has brought about many challenges, including underdeveloped infrastructure, climate vulnerabilities, and socio-economic inequalities.
The ECA Executive Secretary, Mr Claver Gatete, said this in a statement on the commission’s website at the inaugural African Urban Forum in Addis Ababa.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event’s theme is “Sustainable Urbanisation for Africa’s Transformation – Agenda 2063”.
The Government of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission co-organised the event in partnership with UN-Habitat and the ECA.
The Forum is being held against the backdrop of critical challenges in Africa’s rapid urbanisation that require collective resolve while promoting opportunities.
Experts predict that 60 per cent of Africans will reside in cities by 2050, thus, the need for sustainable urban solutions has never been more critical.
Gatete was represented by Dr Stephen Karingi, Director, Regional Integration and Trade Division of the ECA.
“We need to ensure that African cities are not only engines of growth but also exemplars 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.
“The Forum is exploring financing options, forging partnerships, and advancing solutions for sustainable urbanisation to commit to actionable strategies that can transform urban landscapes across the continent,” Gatete said
The executive secretary restated the need for sound macroeconomic policies and development financing for stable and robust economic environments.
According to him, regional integration, economic diversification, and industrialisation are important for enhancing Africa’s competitiveness and strengthening its economic resilience and industrial base.
He also underlined the need to prioritise infrastructure, technology connectivity, and energy to build the backbone of modern, efficient cities that could support sustainable development.
“In addition, we must also address climate change and food security because sustainable urban development must be resilient to environmental changes.
“In response to these pressing challenges, the ECA is working with member states to create stable and robust economic environments that foster growth and enhance development financing for urban infrastructure and services.
“The ECA is collaborating with development banks and private sector stakeholders to develop innovative financing mechanisms tailored to the unique needs of African cities.
“These partnerships will ensure that cities have the necessary capital for sustainable infrastructure, affordable housing, and essential services,” Gatete said.
The ECA boss said efforts were underway to strengthen the competitiveness of African economies, bolster resilience, and enhance the industrial base across the continent.
“ECA recognises the need for technology connectivity and reliable energy sources, which are essential for building modern, efficient cities capable of supporting sustainable development.
“We are also leveraging technology and innovation in urban management, producing analytical reports, and creating the Africa Urban Portal.
“These resources offer valuable insights into urban development trends, guiding policymakers in making informed decisions about sustainable urban growth,” he said.
Gatete further said that addressing climate change and ensuring food security were crucial to sustainable urban development.
He said this would allow cities to remain resilient to environmental changes and thrive in the long term.
He said these efforts aligned with key African Union strategies, particularly Agenda 2063, which envisioned livable, equitable, and resilient cities.
Gatete said the ECA, in partnership with UN-Habitat and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), was leading initiatives to expand the municipal fiscal space in African cities.
He said this effort empowered local governments to effectively generate and manage financial resources, enabling them to invest in critical infrastructure and services. (NAN)
6th September, 2024.
C.E.
Tags: Claver Gatete
