Welcome to your course on Building Smart, Sustainable African Cities!
The African Urban Agenda is primarily concerned with the sustainable urbanisation of African cities as a tool for development and economic growth. This course equips policymakers with the knowledge to address the rapid growth and critical challenges facing cities, where more than half of the African population is expected to reside by 2030.
You will examine the objectives of the African Urban Agenda and analyze the major urban challenges, such as traffic congestion, inadequate sanitation, and pressure on infrastructure . The course then provides the Smart Sustainable Cities framework, outlining 10 actionable steps for planning and creation. You will also explore key policy, governance, and traditional/non-traditional financing options required to successfully transform your city into a smart, sustainable, and inclusive urban environment.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Identify the characteristics of Smart Cities and Sustainable Cities based on the principles of the African Urban Agenda.
- Analyze the current urban challenges and the objectives of the African Urban Agenda within your localized context.
- Apply the 10 actionable steps of the Smart Sustainable Cities framework to plan and execute pilot projects for urban transformation.
- Evaluate the necessary policy, governance, and financing considerations (e.g., Public Private Partnership, Grants) required to support the sustainable implementation of smart city initiatives.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for policymakers, urban planners, municipal leaders, government officials, and development professionals across Africa. It is highly beneficial for individuals who are:
- Involved in city administration, urban development, or infrastructure planning for population growth.
- Seeking to implement technology-driven, sustainable solutions (e.g., smart grids, efficient transit, smart waste management).
- Responsible for aligning local development plans with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and continental urban agendas.