Empowering women for urban climate resilience: Africa must commit to inclusivity

Currently, 55% of the global population resides in urban areas, totalling approximately 4.5 billion people, with women constituting half of this demographic. Despite their significant presence, cities often overlook women’s specific needs in their design and planning, resulting in a lack of inclusivity. Prioritising inclusivity in urban areas extends beyond mere representation for women; it significantly contributes to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 5, aims to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls. It recognises that gender equality catalyses sustainable development. Women’s knowledge, agency and collective action hold the potential to enhance various aspects of urban life, including resource productivity, efficiency, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable use, thereby contributing to the achievement of the SDGs. Similarly, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 places an emphasis on Gender Equality and Development, with Aspiration 6 calling for “An Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children.”

Historically, women have faced challenges in their interactions with urban spaces due to male-oriented models dominating city planning and management. This lack of representation not only widens the awareness gap, but also leads to urban spaces that do not reflect the lived experiences of all demographics. To address these challenges and promote responsive, inclusive and sustainable cities, it’s crucial to incorporate policies and programmes sensitive to gender dynamics. Recognising that women’s urban experiences differ from men’s due to traditions, roles and responsibilities is key to this integration.

In many societies, women bear a disproportionate burden of unpaid caregiving, community building and resource management. These distinct, embedded gender roles, intertwined with cultural traditions, impact women’s interactions with urban environments. Acknowledging and accounting for these differences is essential to effectively address the specific needs of women. Equitable access to essential urban assets not only empowers women economically and socially, but also enhances overall community resilience.

Women’s involvement in water resource management, for example, could ensure more sustainable practices and equitable distribution within communities. Women globally often assume the role of community water managers, selecting water sources, deciding their designated purposes, monitoring quality, and implementing conservation strategies. Thus, fostering gender-responsive policies and programmes is not just an exercise in equality, but a strategic investment in creating sustainable and equitable urban spaces, leading to overall environmental sustainability.

Ensuring women the right to actively participate in planning and shaping their cities is a fundamental aspect of inclusive urban development. Recognising and promoting women’s rights within the city lays a powerful foundation for their active contribution to creating spaces that meet their unique needs, preferences and aspirations. In doing so, we not only empower women but also enhance the urban experience for the entire community.