Millions are invested in sustainability programmes. Communities participate. Activities happen. But when it’s time to report back, the hardest question isn’t “What did you do?” It’s “What actually changed, and how did your work contribute to it?” Impact storytelling answers that question. It bridges the gap between monitoring data and meaningful narrative, translating technical evidence … Continued
As the world approaches COP30, marking a decade since the landmark Paris Agreement, global climate action remains far off track, with the world facing an overshoot of 1,5’C temperature rise, with dire consequences for the world’s oldest continent. This moment demands honest reflection and renewed commitment. If we fix implementation, ambition will come. The Brazil … Continued
World Habitat Day Bold action. Proven impact. Inclusive change. This World Habitat Day, and throughout Urban October, we’re highlighting how ICLEI Africa is making an impact across the continent, celebrating 30 years of supporting African cities and regions to create a more resilient, sustainable urban Africa. The immense, interconnected urban sustainability challenges our world, and … Continued
Fifty-four per cent of Africa’s population is currently living in urban areas, with 90 cities across the continent having over one million inhabitants. Africa is also home to the world’s fastest-growing urban population of 700 million people – a number that is set to double by 2050. At the same time African cities are increasingly … Continued
Uganda’s cities are growing rapidly, at about 5% a year. Today, 35% of the country’s population lives in urban areas, and 70% of these residents live in informal settlements. In the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA), this means more than 4 million people live in hard-to-reach communities where energy access remains out of reach (UBOS, … Continued
For thirty years, ICLEI Africa, as part of ICLEI’s strong global network, has worked alongside local and subnational governments, partners and communities to co-create solutions for thriving, resilient cities. This milestone year celebrates our progress and the bold vision driving the next chapter of ICLEI’s role in Africa’s urban transformation. From a single desk to … Continued
Rwanda is taking significant steps towards more inclusive and effective climate action by actively engaging local authorities in the development of its third Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs 3.0). The NDC 3.0 will outline the country’s revised goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change while reflecting Rwanda’s climate ambition and global climate … Continued
In recent years, the coastal city of Durban (governed by eThekwini Municipality) in South Africa has been impacted by more frequent and intense flooding events. Informal settlements, often located in flood-prone areas with inadequate infrastructure and drainage, are particularly vulnerable. When floods occur, they do not just damage structures; they displace families, disrupt livelihoods, and … Continued
Over the last decade, 11 African cities have been involved in different phases of the Urban Natural Assets (UNA) programme. The focus in 2025 has been on bringing these cities together, leveraging and building on the work done over the last 10 years to advance transformative trajectories, scale learnings, and build urban resilience. From 26–30 … Continued
African cities are home to some of the fastest urbanisation rates on the planet, driven by rapidly expanding youth populations, with high levels of ingenuity, resourcefulness and adaptability. With rapid growth, comes risks and opportunities that are set to intensify with the now very likely overshoot of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. To thrive in these … Continued