Every 31st of October, the world celebrates World Cities Day, an initiative established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013. This observance highlights the vital role cities play in sustainable development, economic growth, and addressing urban challenges. With the pressing realities of climate change, particularly evident in Africa, the significance of sustainable urbanization has become more critical than ever.
This year’s theme, “Youth Climate Changemakers: Catalyzing Local Action for Urban Sustainability,” underscores the power of youth to drive climate resilience in their communities.
Urbanisation in Africa
Africa is experiencing one of the fastest urbanization rates globally, with projections indicating that over half of the continent’s population will reside in urban areas by 2050. Currently, around 43% of Africans live in cities, a figure expected to rise to 60% by 2030. This rapid urban growth brings both opportunities and challenges, as cities grapple with issues such as inadequate infrastructure, housing shortages, and environmental pressures.
Historically, African cities have been hubs of culture and commerce. However, climate-related urban challenges—flooding, heatwaves, and food insecurity—demand innovative solutions and proactive efforts. Here, youth have a pivotal role.
Empowering the Next Generation of Urban Leaders
African youth are not merely future leaders; they are changemakers today, actively working toward sustainable urban environments. The climate crisis requires fresh perspectives, and young Africans are stepping up, driven by a commitment to environmental stewardship and social equity. Their innovative approaches position them as essential drivers of urban sustainability and local action.
Inspiring African Youth Activists
Elizabeth Kibet (Kenya)
Climate activist and founder of the Green Youth Initiative, Elizabeth has mobilized young Kenyans to advocate for sustainable practices through tree planting, waste management, and climate education, empowering youth to shape their environmental future.
Mandeep Makkar (South Africa)
Founder of the Youth for Climate Justice movement, Mandeep advocates for equitable climate policies in South Africa. Through workshops and community engagement, Mandeep encourages young people to participate in local governance and sustainability efforts.
Fatoumata Keita (Mali)
Founder of EcoFemmes, Fatoumata promotes sustainable agriculture among young women, addressing food security and empowering women in rural communities to lead in eco-friendly farming practices.
Ayo Oduyale (Nigeria)
Co-founder of the Green Institute, Ayo works on urban sustainability and environmental education, empowering youth to engage in urban planning and green initiatives to make cities more livable.
Juma Hassan (Tanzania)
As a member of the Tanzania Youth Coalition, Juma advocates for youth participation in climate policy discussions, ensuring that young voices influence decisions impacting their urban environments.
Amina Abdalla (Egypt)
Founder of Eco-Youth Egypt, Amina educates young people about sustainability and urban ecology. Through hands-on projects, she inspires youth to engage with and conserve their local environments.
Mokhlesa Mahfouz (Morocco)
An emerging urban planner, Mokhlesa integrates green spaces into urban design, emphasizing accessible green areas to improve urban quality of life and environmental health.
Nadia Didi (Ethiopia)
Social entrepreneur Nadia focuses on sustainable waste management. Her initiative, Waste to Wealth, turns waste into valuable resources, creating jobs and promoting a circular economy among Addis Ababa’s youth.
Supporting Youth-Led Initiatives
As we honor World Cities Day, it is crucial for governments, organizations, and communities to support these young leaders. Investing in youth-led initiatives is vital for sustainable urban development. Local governments must prioritize youth engagement in policy-making, fund community projects, and promote educational programs that equip young people with the skills necessary for sustainable growth.
Incorporating youth voices in urban planning and climate action initiatives fosters more inclusive and effective solutions. As UN-Habitat emphasizes, “Young people are at the forefront of local action for climate resilience and sustainable development, driving transformative change in their communities.”
The Future is Now
World Cities Day serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within African youth. As they tackle climate challenges, their innovation and bold actions will shape tomorrow’s cities. Sustainable urbanization is about not only addressing today’s immediate challenges but also building a foundation for future generations.
Together, we can create inclusive, equitable, and environmentally sustainable cities powered by the energy and creativity of youth. Let us celebrate young changemakers across Africa, advocating for the support and recognition they deserve. The future of our cities is in their hands—it’s time to unleash their potential.
