Context-Specific Integrated and All-Inclusive Approaches to Urban Sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa

Ayo Adebowale, University of Ibadan
Tubosun Olowolafe, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan
Martin E. Palamuleni, North-West University, Mafikeng Campus

The increasing rate of urbanization in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries remains a global concern because evidence suggests that effective urban planning lags behind this development. Integration between potential mechanisms for implementing transformative change is lacking in most SSA cities. Therefore, we examined the SSA context-specific multisector and all-inclusive approaches to urban sustainability through the lens of the social, environmental, and technological dimensions. The urban mechanisms to be addressed using an integrated and multisector approach include renewable energy technology, housing structures, transportation, water, health services, education, and internal migration. Others are agriculture, market structures, waste management, green environment, climate change, drainage system, air pollution, tax reforms, innovative financing, crime control, political will, and partnership. The planning, timing, policy drive, and performance evaluation plan for urban sustainability in SSA were also explored. To ensure that the plan and implementation of urban sustainability work flawlessly in SSA, there should be synergy between all stakeholders including governments, agencies, private organizations, and residents. In addition, new changes and ideas for improvement in urban sustainability will require active sectoral partnership. Through urban sustainability, government and stakeholders can create cities that promote environmentalism, innovation, health, and safety.

Keywords: Internal Migration and Urbanization, Population and Development, International Migration, Population Policies

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