African cities stand at a crossroads, where rapid urban growth demands a shift towards development that is both people-centred and nature-positive. Nature provides an abundance of contributions to people, including raw materials, fresh water and food – all of which support water security, food security and livelihoods. It also provides medicinal plants, trees and green spaces that lower city temperatures and improve air quality. These natural assets are crucial to the city’s economy and the health and wellbeing of its people. Yet these contributions are often undervalued or excluded from planning and decision-making processes.  

This Impact Showcase brings together key learnings from over a decade of collaboration, co-design and co-production across African cities. It highlights how collective engagement – by city authorities, local officials, stakeholders and national government – in addressing local challenges and pressures can foster inclusive action, guide policy reform, mobilise finance, encourage innovation and strengthen local leadership and agency. Together, these efforts help to progressively protect and restore urban natural assets while safeguarding the rights of people and addressing urban challenges. Alongside stories, tools and first-hand accounts from partner cities, this showcase page and the associated report will highlight creative entry points, resources, lessons and case studies to inspire more action and inform future efforts across the continent, and beyond.