Africa Innovation Network is a think tank developing new approaches for more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities in Africa. We develop initiatives, projects, programs, and materials to support cities to move forward to more sustainable human settlements. Our Team. This is your Team page. It's a great space to introduce your team and talk about what makes it special, such as your culture and work philosophy. Don't be afraid to illustrate personality and character to help users connect with your team. Don Francis Founder & CEO Ashley Jones Tech Lead Tess Brown Office Manager Lisa Rose Product Manager Email info@mysite.com Call 123-456-7890 Follow

Marrakech, one of Morocco's most captivating cities, is renowned for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and bustling souks. Known as the "Red City" due to its famous red sandstone walls, Marrakech is situated at the foothills of the stunning Atlas Mountains. It serves as a major economic center and tourist destination, blending ancient traditions with modernity. The heart of Marrakech is its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina, a labyrinth of narrow alleys where travelers can explore palaces, mosques, and markets. The city is also famous for its beautiful gardens like the Majorelle Garden, and lively squares such as Djemaa el-Fna, where food stalls, snake charmers, and performers offer a taste of Moroccan life. Marrakesh-Morocco Marrakech, one of Morocco's most captivating cities, is renowned for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and bustling souks. Known as the "Red City" due to its famous red sandstone walls, Marrakech is situated at the foothills of the stunning Atlas Mountains. It serves as a major economic center and tourist destination, blending ancient traditions with modernity. The heart of Marrakech is its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina, a labyrinth of narrow alleys where travelers can explore palaces, mosques, and markets. The city is also famous for its beautiful gardens like the Majorelle Garden, and lively squares such as Djemaa el-Fna, where food stalls, snake charmers, and performers offer a taste of Moroccan life.

< Back La ventilation naturelle : une arme invisible, mais tellement efficace ! Odyssées d’Architectures (Agathe Belot & Mathieu Jaumain) Cet article met en lumière la puissance de la ventilation naturelle comme solution low-tech pour lutter contre la surchauffe des bâtiments, alternative aux climatiseurs énergivores et mal intégrés. Historiquement utilisée dans les médinas du Moyen-Orient et adaptée par le modernisme tropical africain, cette méthode exploite des ouvertures stratégiques pour favoriser le renouvellement de l’air et évacuer la chaleur. Des projets contemporains, tels que celui en Tanzanie, démontrent également son efficacité en réduisant significativement la présence de moustiques et le coût de construction. La ventilation naturelle, simple à mettre en œuvre, offre ainsi une réponse durable et économique aux défis climatiques. De plus en plus de machines contrôlent la température de nos bâtiments et pourtant certains systèmes low-tech sont redoutables pour lutter contre la surchauffe ! La ventilation naturelle est l’un d’eux et mériterait d’être généralisée. Les climatiseurs sont devenus une réponse trop facile à de mauvaises conceptions architecturales. En plus d’être esthétiquement difficiles à intégrer, ils sont très énergivores. Leur popularité est paradoxale puisqu’il est aujourd’hui aisément possible de s’en passer avec une ventilation naturelle. Cette dernière est utilisée depuis des siècles. Elle remonte à la construction des premières villes du Moyen-Orient et d’Afrique du Nord. Le principe en est relativement simple : sur les faces les moins exposées au soleil se trouvent de larges ouvertures alors que sur celles qui sont les plus exposées, de petites fenêtres sont placées en hauteur. L’air chaud ayant une densité (et donc un poids) plus faible que l’air froid, monte naturellement, s’évacue par la petite ouverture et crée ainsi un courant d’air permanent. Dans la médina de Marrakech il est encore possible de visiter une partie de l’une des premières universités au monde, la Merdersa Ben Youssef, datant du XIIIe siècle, où un bassin d’eau au milieu du grand patio permet de créer un effet venturi et de rafraîchir de quelques degrés la température. C’était le lieu de prédilection des étudiants pour réviser. Les climatiseurs ont envahi les façades de Dakar, Sénégal, 2023 par Odyssées d’Architectures La ventilation naturelle a aussi été au centre d’un mouvement architectural né dans les villes africaines pendant la colonisation : le modernisme tropical. Les colons s’établissant sur le continent voulaient construire des édifices copiant ceux qu’ils connaissaient en Europe avec des styles et des matériaux identiques. Mais les architectes se sont rapidement rendu compte qu’il fallait adapter leurs habitudes constructives pour réaliser des bâtiments confortables dans de telles températures. De 1942 à 1960 Edwin Maxwell Fry et Jane Beverly Drew imaginèrent ainsi de nombreux édifices au Ghana et au Nigéria alliant style moderniste et ventilation naturelle. La plupart de leurs constructions sont encore utilisées actuellement telles qu’elles ont été pensées. Si Francis Kere, vainqueur du Pritzker Prize en 2022, est connu pour ses conceptions low-tech dans des villages reculés d’Afrique, d’autres architectes utilisent aussi la ventilation naturelle. Ainsi, le travail de John McAslan + Partners a permis de diminuer de 3 degrés la température dans les classes de plusieurs villages au nord du Malawi en utilisant des matériaux disponibles localement et avec un design simple pour pouvoir être mis en œuvre facilement par les villageois. On pourrait encore citer le projet de Insitu Architectes au Sénégal qui s’inspire du fonctionnement de la termitière pour ventiler l’église de Nianing, ou encore les projets de Mick Pearce au Zimbabwe comme le Eastgate Center et le Temple Indu de Harare datant des années 1990. Ingvartsen Architects_The Star Home Project_Mtwara, Tanzanie_2022_Photo/ Julien Lanoo Modernisme tropical, Musée national du Ghana, Accra, Edwin Maxwell Fry et Jane Beverly Drew, 1957 En plus de diminuer la température dans les bâtiments, les courants d’air permettent de chasser les moustiques. Alors pourquoi ne pas remplacer nos vitrages par des moustiquaires ? C’est l’idée qu’Ingvartsen Architects a développée pour The Star Homes Project. Dans plus de 50 villages au sud de la Tanzanie, un modèle de maison est répliqué et monitoré pour tester son efficacité à différents emplacements dans une même région. Après bientôt un an, les résultats sont déjà impressionnants. En construisant de manière compacte, mais avec un étage (chose rare dans cette région), la cuisine au rez-de-chaussée et les chambres au-dessus, et en recouvrant plus de la moitié de la façade par des moustiquaires, la diminution du nombre de moustiques est estimée à plus de 80% par rapport aux maisons traditionnelles. Des résultats très encourageants dans la difficile lutte du pays contre la propagation de la malaria. L’ambition d’Ingvartsen Architects est d’ensuite proposer ce modèle au gouvernement en tant que logement social, car en plus, son coût de construction est très faible. Alliée à des protections solaires ou à un petit bassin d’eau ou encore à des matériaux naturellement isolants, comme la terre, la ventilation naturelle est redoutablement efficace et même indispensable pour diminuer la température à l’intérieur des édifices. Outre ses qualités thermiques, elle permet de chasser l’air vicié et de réduire la présence de moustiques en assurant un renouvellement constant de l’air dans les espaces. C’est une stratégie qui peut s’appliquer partout, avec n’importe quel matériau de construction, dans tous types de bâtiments, mais surtout à un très faible coût, en plus d’être facile à mettre en œuvre. Sa seule exigence est d’être considérée en amont de la construction pour qu’elle soit optimale et judicieusement intégrée aux besoins des utilisateurs. Previous Next

< Back African Cities Magazine 3 October 31, 2022 This third edition opens with an interview with Jean-François Habeau, Executive Director of the Global Fund for Cities Development (FMDV), on the issue of financing sustainable cities in Africa. The urban planning innovation section is followed by a wide range of innovative projects based on participation and collective construction. In order to inspire a larger number of people and particularly young people, this edition features a portrait of Aziza Chaouni, Principal architect at Aziza Chaouni Projects and Associate Professor at the University of Toronto. Finally, the magazine ends with a sweep of the main events on African cities that took place during the year. Financing Sustainable Cities in Africa Interview with Jean-François Habeau, Executive Director of the Global Fund for Cities Development (FMDV) The urbanization of the African continent constitutes an important economic potential provided that it is accompanied by policies aimed at low-carbon, inclusive and sustainable economies... Portrait: Aziza CHAOUNI, Principal architect at Aziza Chaouni Projects and Associate Professor at the University of Toronto A sustainable city is a city that offers enough affordable social housing. I think that giving access to housing to a large part of the population is already removing a lot of injustice. I think that it is absolutely necessary to review all our policies in terms of social housing in Morocco and in Africa. Innovative practices of urban transformation based on participation, collective making, digital technologies, dialogue, art, design English version Version française Previous Next

< Back Talk-apéro espaces publics Conference March 27, 2026 Cameroon Retour sur un moment d’échange autour des espaces publics en Afrique Le 27 mars 2026, le Driver City Space à Yaoundé a accueilli le Talk-Apéro “Espaces publics en Afrique : comment concilier les formes, les fonctions et les usages ?”, un événement organisé par Africa Innovation Network dans le cadre des activités du African Cities Magazine. Cet après-midi d’échanges a rassemblé chercheurs, urbanistes, étudiants, acteurs publics et passionnés de la ville autour d’une question centrale : comment repenser les espaces publics africains à partir des réalités locales ? Une ouverture conviviale et engagée L’événement a débuté par un mot de bienvenue , mettant en avant l’importance des espaces publics comme lieux de vie, d’innovation sociale et d’expression citoyenne dans les villes africaines. Dans un contexte marqué par une urbanisation rapide, les discussions ont souligné la nécessité de concevoir des espaces publics plus inclusifs, adaptés aux usages réels et capables d’intégrer les dynamiques informelles . Focus sur le African Cities Magazine #6 Un moment fort de la rencontre a été la présentation du numéro 6 du African Cities Magazine , consacré aux espaces publics en Afrique. Cette édition met en lumière : des études de cas à travers le continent , des approches innovantes d’aménagement , et des réflexions critiques sur les usages réels des espaces publics . Les échanges ont permis de souligner le décalage fréquent entre les modèles d’aménagement importés et les pratiques quotidiennes, appelant à une relecture contextuelle des espaces publics africains . Présentation du projet de recherche sur l'Analyse spatio-économique des espaces publics au Cameroun La rencontre s’est poursuivie avec la présentation d’un projet de recherche portant sur l’ analyse spatio-économique des espaces publics au Cameroun . Ce travail met en évidence : la diversité des usages (mobilité, commerce, sociabilité), le rôle clé de l’économie informelle, et les dynamiques d’appropriation des espaces par les usagers. Cette approche permet de mieux comprendre comment les espaces publics fonctionnent réellement, au-delà des intentions de planification. Conférence-débat. Formes, fonctions et usages : quelles articulations ? Le temps de conférence-débat a été particulièrement riche, avec des échanges dynamiques entre intervenants et participants. Plusieurs points clés ont émergé : la nécessité de reconnaître les usages informels comme partie intégrante des espaces publics , l’importance de concevoir avec les usagers et non uniquement pour eux , le besoin de développer des approches hybrides entre planification et pratiques sociales , et l’enjeu de faire des espaces publics de véritables communs urbains . Ces discussions ont mis en évidence le potentiel des espaces publics comme leviers de transformation urbaine inclusive. Un moment de networking convivial L’événement s’est conclu par un cocktail , offrant un cadre informel pour prolonger les discussions, créer des connexions et faire émerger de nouvelles collaborations. Ce moment a confirmé l’importance de ces formats hybrides, à la fois scientifiques, professionnels et conviviaux , pour nourrir les réflexions sur la ville africaine. Ce Talk-Apéro s’inscrit dans une dynamique plus large portée par Africa Innovation Network visant à : documenter les transformations urbaines en Afrique, valoriser les recherches et initiatives locales, et favoriser le dialogue entre chercheurs, praticiens et citoyens. D’autres événements et publications sont à venir pour continuer à explorer les enjeux des espaces publics, de l’innovation urbaine et de la gouvernance des villes africaines . Pour suivre nos prochaines activités :🌐 www.africinno.com 📧 contact@africinno.com Previous Next

"Unlock urban potential in Africa! Africa Innovation Network focuses on creating sustainable, resilient African cities & innovative solutions for a better urban future." #AfricanCities A FRICA I NNOVATION N ETWORK: SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR AFRICA AND THE WORLD WHO WE ARE We are a think tank developing new approaches for more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities in Africa. We develop initiatives, projects, programs, and materials to support cities to move forward to more sustainable human settlements. WHAT WE DO Through our network of experts in urban planning, architecture, engineering, transport and mobility, geographic information systems, design, etc., we accompany cities and territories in the creation of more inclusive and sustainable living environments. OUR APPROACH Our approach is human-centered and based on frugal innovations. We are developing simple, participative ideas and solutions to make our cities and our rural areas a better place for all . OUR MISSION Help through our initiatives to build a better future for all and make sure that no one is left behind in our cities.

< Back When art comes to town: The murals that cover African cities This article explores the rise of murals in African cities, their ancient history, and their contemporary role. From Johannesburg to Cairo, these works of art transform urban landscapes, tell cultural stories, and address social and political issues. Casablanca and Cotonou feature murals depicting history and national pride, while Johannesburg and Cairo display tributes to Mandela and powerful messages of tolerance. El Seed in Manshiyat Naser, Cairo, symbolizes change and unity within a marginalized community. These murals become cultural pillars and means of expression, promoting tourism and community unity. From the vibrant streets of Johannesburg to the colorful alleyways of Cairo, African cities are being transformed by murals. These large-scale works of art are adorning buildings, walls, and bridges, bringing life and color to urban spaces. Murals in African cities serve a variety of purposes. One of the reasons why murals are so popular is that they are a relatively inexpensive way to add beauty and vibrancy to urban areas. They are used to raise awareness of social and political issues, while others celebrate local culture and heritage. Whatever their purpose, murals are having a profound impact on African cities. They are attracting tourists, boosting local economies, and creating a sense of community pride. Murals have a long and rich history in Africa, dating back to ancient times. Some of the earliest known murals in Africa can be found in the tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs. Murals were also used by other African cultures to tell stories, celebrate religious beliefs, and document important events. For example, the Dogon people of Mali used murals to tell the story of their creation myth. The murals depict the journey of the Dogon people from their celestial home to Earth. The murals of the Ndebele people of South Africa are another example of the long tradition of mural painting in Africa. Ndebele murals are known for their bold colors and geometric patterns. They are used to decorate homes and other buildings, and they also have a spiritual significance. In the 20th and 21st centuries, murals have taken on a new significance in Africa. They are now being used to address important social and political issues, such as poverty, inequality, and HIV/AIDS. Murals are also being used to celebrate African culture and heritage. Casablanca, Morocco Casablanca has become a vibrant open-air art gallery, with murals covering the walls of buildings all over the city. From the bustling streets of Burgundy to the winding alleyways of the old medina, these murals tell stories, celebrate culture, and inspire passersby. Each mural is a unique work of art, reflecting the diversity and creativity of Casablanca's people. Some murals are abstract, with bold colors and geometric patterns. Others are figurative, depicting portraits, landscapes, and scenes from everyday life. One particularly striking mural can be found on Burgundy Street. It features portraits of the Moroccan national football team, who recently achieved a historic feat by reaching the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The mural captures the excitement and pride of the Moroccan people, and it has become a popular tourist attraction. Casablanca's murals are more than just works of art. They are also a source of pride and inspiration for the city's residents. They transform urban spaces, making them more colorful and inviting. They also serve as a platform for artists to express themselves and to share their stories with the world. Cotonou, Benin The mural in Cotonou, Benin is a truly impressive feat of art and engineering. It is the largest fresco in the world, measuring 1,300 meters long and 10 meters high. The mural was created by a collective of 27 artists from 13 different countries, and it took them over a year to complete. The mural is located in the port of Cotonou, which is one of the busiest ports in West Africa. The mural depicts a variety of scenes from Benin's history and culture. There are images of traditional dances, ceremonies, and everyday life. The mural also features portraits of some of Benin's most famous historical figures, such as King Ghézo and Queen Hangbé. The mural is more than just a work of art. It is also a symbol of Benin's growing cultural and economic importance. The mural has been well-received by the people of Benin. Many people see the mural as a symbol of national pride. The mural has also attracted tourists from all over the world. The Nelson Mandela mural by Shepard Fairey in Johannesburg, South Africa The Nelson Mandela mural by Shepard Fairey is a 10-storey, 2,174 square feet (202.0 m2) public artwork on Juta Street in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, created by Shepard Fairey and completed in September 2014. It pays tribute to Nelson Mandela and the 25th anniversary of the Purple Rain Protest. The mural is based on Fairey's iconic "Hope" poster, which was created for Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign. The mural depicts Mandela in a close-up portrait, with his signature bright white smile and piercing blue eyes. The mural is painted in a bold, colorful style, with shades of red, orange, yellow, and blue. The mural is located in a prominent location in Braamfontein, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Johannesburg. It is a popular tourist attraction, and it is also a source of pride for the local community. The mural is a reminder of Mandela's legacy and his fight for equality and justice. Perception" mural by El Seed in Cairo Cairo is another African city that is home to a vibrant mural scene. One of the most popular murals in Cairo is The Calligraffiti Mural of Garbage City. EL Seed, a French-Tunisian street artist, created a stunning calligraffiti mural in the Manshiyat Naser suburb of Cairo. The mural covers the sides of more than 40 buildings and features a quote from a Coptic Christian bishop: "Anyone who wants to see the sunlight clearly needs to wipe his eye first." The mural is located in a very poor neighborhood, and eL Seed had to work with limited resources. He also had to overcome the stigma that is often attached to Manshiyat Naser. Despite the challenges, eL Seed was able to create a beautiful and inspiring mural that has made a positive impact on the Manshiyat Naser community. The mural is a powerful reminder that we should not judge others too quickly, and that we should always strive to see the best in people and places. Manshiyat Naser is a neighborhood that is often overlooked and stigmatized, but eL Seed's mural is helping to change that. The mural has had a positive impact on the Manshiyat Naser community. It has helped to raise awareness of the neighborhood and its people, and it has also inspired a sense of pride and community spirit. Previous Next

AIN TEAM Leandry JIEUTSA FOUNDER in Hind REZOUK MEMBER Patrick SOMY MEMBER Franck HEUDJEU MEMBER Corianne RICE MEMBER Wijdane NADIFI MEMBER Joel Mukalay KIME MUKENA MEMBER

< Back Reaping the Urban Dividend: Sustainable and Safe Urban Mobility in Africa Debashish Bhattacharjee and Stefanie Holzwarth Rapid urbanization in Africa brings both opportunities and challenges. While urban areas have seen significant economic growth, issues like traffic congestion, road crashes, and lack of safe transport hinder progress. The "Reclaiming Streets for Pedestrians and Cyclists in Africa" project aims to address these challenges. It promotes safer street designs, integrating walking and cycling infrastructure. Through capacity building and pilot initiatives in Kenya, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Guinea, and Rwanda, the project enhances road safety and urban mobility. By emphasizing pedestrian and cyclist safety in national road safety frameworks and facilitating regional collaboration, it paves the way for safer and more sustainable urban transport systems across Africa. The world’s most rapidly growing cities are in Africa. Since 1990, the number of cities in Africa has doubled and their cumulative population has increased by 500 million people , with one-third of Africa’s per capita GDP growth due to urbanisation . But, the full potential of urbanisation is yet to be realised. Among the underlying causes holding back the potential of the continent are the high levels of traffic congestion and road traffic crashes that occur in the region which is also linked with the lack of affordable, safe and convenient public transport and proper footpaths and bike-lanes As African cities grow and attract more people, there is an opportunity to shape them in more resource-efficient ways, that minimise travel and provide vibrant spaces for economic activities and social interaction, making them engines of social and economic development. This requires “a whole of society approach” led by the government but where business, civil society and academic institutions play crucial roles. Impactful “solutions” can be found in walking and cycling if put at the heart of policy and planning. Safe and vibrant streets can solve many challenges that African cities currently face and their implementation is usually at lower cost than the alternatives. By reviewing experiences from various cities and putting in place processes that build on successes from within the region, such a “learning from doing” approach can help Africa to make urbanisation work for the benefit of its people and for the planet. Intersection redesign in Quelimane Mozambique. 2022 UN-Habitat Africa’s urban population has tripled in size in little more than two decades since 1990 and its cities will gain over 900 million new residents by 2050, making Africa the most rapidly urbanizing region in the world . While one third of per capita, GDP growth has been attributed to urbanisation, the informal sector accounts for more than 80 % of jobs in African cities. The Covid 19 pandemic severely affected this sector decimating livelihoods of large sections of the population who have little or no support from social protection measures. In addition to putting in place social safety nets for the vulnerable, restoring and improving livelihoods for the large section of society who depend on informal sources of employment in cities should therefore be amongst the top priorities across the countries of the region. It is in this context that decent “urban mobility” should be seen as a key enabler for people to pursue livelihoods, access basic health and education services and engage in social interaction all contributing to building their resilience and capabilities particularly of those who are the most vulnerable. People in Dar es Salaam crossing over to the BRT station. 2018. Julius Mwelu - UN-Habitat Currently, Africa has the lowest emissions amongst the regions of the world. But emissions are rapidly increasing together with the growth in car ownership driven mainly by import of used vehicles from other regions . Transportation also is a large source of multiple pollutants and air pollution is now the second largest cause of death in Africa (1.1 million deaths in 2019 alone). In addition, road traffic crashes are a major cause of death and disability in the region. Globally, Africa accounts for 3% of registered vehicles but 20% of fatalities from road crashes. 261 pedestrians and 18 cyclists are killed in Africa every day. According to a World Bank report the total cost of fatalities and serious injuries in the region in 2016, amounted to $128 billion and 9% of GDP -the highest in the world . According to the WHO 2018 Global status report, only 11 African countries have design standards for pedestrians and cyclists. In the region, people spend on an average nearly one hour on walking and cycling – not by choice but due to a lack of other options . Public transport is largely informally operated in African cities with fleets comprising so called “minibus taxis” known by various names in different countries e.g matatus in Kenya and dala dalas in Tanzania. These operate in an erratic manner in responding to travel demand, with operators competing for passengers on the road and generally provide a poor level of service associated with road safety challenges. However, for the majority of people, this may be the only “public transport” option available. Moreover, based on data analysed by UN-Habitat from 138 African cities, only around 32% of people living in these cities can access convenient public transport services within a distance of 500m/ 1000m (depending on carrier capacity). A modern, efficient and safe multi-modal transport system, comprised of public transport accessible to people by a short and comfortable walk or bike ride should thus be a part of the vision of African cities to stem the huge drain on resources and boost their economies in addition to addressing the human tragedy and suffering caused by road traffic crashes. Cycling fighting his way on Nairobi roads. 2020. UN-Habitat A large majority of the African urban residents rely on walking and cycling, with data for many cities showing up to 50-70% of the transport trips. At the same time, the infrastructure for active mobility is often lacking or in poor condition, causing severe safety impacts for the urban population. This alarming situation is often compounded by the lack of integrated transport and urban planning practices, resulting in a priority towards car-oriented transport policies and practices and outdated street design standards with little reference to “complete streets” in urban areas. It is against this background that UN-Habitat is coordinating the “Reclaiming Streets for Pedestrians and Cyclists in Africa” project funded by the United Nations Road Safety Fund, and implemented in collaboration with the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP). The project aims to significantly reduce road fatalities among the most vulnerable road users in the countries of Kenya, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Guinea and Rwanda. The project implements large-scale capacity building programmes on safe street designs, for instance in Kisumu, Kenya, where a Minecraft workshop (digital lego for urban design) was organized with local communities to identify their main proposals for better streets. These proposals were tested through a tactical urbanism intervention showcased at the Africities conference in 2022. Safe Routes to School Campaign in Mombasa 2023. Vipul Patel Through the provision of technical assistance, the “Reclaiming Streets” project also contributes to the implementation of pilot initiatives. Public spaces and footpaths that are better designed to safely accommodate rather than hinder street-vending and other such small businesses, can actually boost social activities, employment and potentially also land values. One pilot initiative supported by the “Reclaiming Streets” project is the Nairobi River Life Project, a joint initiative of the Kenyan Government, UN-Habitat and other partners. Under this initiative, opportunities are being developed for regenerating inner city neighbourhoods, supporting local economies, providing alternative connectivity through a network of green and public spaces and a safe network of walkways and bicycle paths, managing storm water, and creating water reservoirs and water parks. Participatory Minecraft workshop on Street Designs. Kisumu 2022. UN-habitat The “Reclaiming Streets” project furthermore assists countries in strengthening their national road safety frameworks for instance by emphasizing the need for safe walking and cycling in Mozambique’s National Road Safety Masterplan, or through its support to the development of Rwanda’s National Street Design Manual. Through regional dissemination of good practice, the project inspires countries across the continent to follow successful pathways towards safer mobility. Together with partners, the project contributed to the first Africa-wide convening for walking and cycling in Kigali, Rwanda. The Forum addressed the long-standing issues with walking and cycling on the continent and initiated the drafting of regional action plans. Lastly, the project also strengthens the collaboration with development banks and financiers and offers support for in providing NMT audits to externally financed mobility projects. As walking and cycling should be considered part of an integrated, multi-modal transport system, the project emphasizes the links with public transport in the context of transit-oriented development. Over the years, UN-Habitat has also assisted African cities in planning for modern public transport systems and provided expertise towards operational planning or corridor design in cities such Kampala, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Kigali or Dar es Salaam. Road Safety Campaign in Mozambique 2022. UN-Habitat Safe and sustainable mobility is essential for economies to thrive in Africa. Improving accessibility and mobility for all is enabling more people, particularly women and those that were previously constrained by a variety of reasons, such as disabilities and poverty to participate in economic, social and cultural activities and access educational, health and other social services making cities more vibrant engines of economic growth and social development, while also restraining the growing emissions in the region. The Reclaiming Streets project is significantly reducing road fatalities in its partner cities by implementing safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists. Through tactical urbanism interventions and technical assistance for street designs, the project results in safer infrastructure for vulnerable road users while encouraging design features that slow down the speed of motorized transport. The project contributes to safer urban street designs under a complete streets approach, for instance in Rwanda at the Kinamba and Akabuga intersections, or in Ethiopia in 2 school areas in Addis Ababa. In collaboration with the local governments, the project assists during the implementation phase and will assess reductions in injuries/fatalities in a sample number of locations. Cyclist in Mozambique. 2022. UN-Habitat Previous Next

Lomé, the capital and largest city of Togo, is uniquely positioned as the only capital city in the world that borders another nation—Ghana. Situated on the Gulf of Guinea, Lomé serves as the economic and administrative hub of Togo, with its bustling port playing a critical role in the country's economy. The city is known for its vibrant markets, especially the Grand Marché, a colorful epicenter of Togolese commerce and culture. Lomé also features a mix of colonial architecture and modern buildings, reflecting its history and development. The city's coastline is lined with palm-fringed beaches, making it a picturesque location for both residents and visitors. Lomé-Togo Lomé, the capital and largest city of Togo, is uniquely positioned as the only capital city in the world that borders another nation—Ghana. Situated on the Gulf of Guinea, Lomé serves as the economic and administrative hub of Togo, with its bustling port playing a critical role in the country's economy. The city is known for its vibrant markets, especially the Grand Marché, a colorful epicenter of Togolese commerce and culture. Lomé also features a mix of colonial architecture and modern buildings, reflecting its history and development. The city's coastline is lined with palm-fringed beaches, making it a picturesque location for both residents and visitors.

Africa Innovation Network est ravi de participer au forum organisé par Le Grdr et ses partenaires sur les trajectoires des villes du fleuve Sénégal. < Back AIN au forum, quelles trajectoires pour les villes du fleuve Sénégal ? Africa Innovation Network est ravi de participer au forum organisé par Le Grdr et ses partenaires sur les trajectoires des villes du fleuve Sénégal. Africa Innovation Network est ravi de participer au forum organisé par Le Grdr et ses partenaires sur les trajectoires des villes du fleuve Sénégal. Rejoignez-nous du 12 au 14 décembre 2023 à l’hôtel Sindoné à Saint Louis au Sénégal pour explorer l'avenir de Kayes, Kaédi et Bakel. Nous y animerons deux tables rondes pour Plonger dans les enjeux de l'urbanisation ouest-africaine et des villes intermédiaires au Sahel, et Explorez les opportunités des villes intermédiaires de la moyenne vallée du fleuve Sénégal. Le Grdr et ses partenaires organisent leur forum « Quelles trajectoires pour les villes du fleuve Sénégal ? Regards sur Kayes, Kaédi et Bakel » , qui se tiendra les 12, 13 et 14 décembre 2023 à l’hôtel Sindoné à Saint Louis au Sénégal. (uniquement sur invitation). Au cœur des échanges : L a Moyenne Vallée du Fleuve Sénégal connaît depuis les années 1970, une croissance démographique soutenue et une urbanisation rapide. Ces petites et moyennes villes, qualifiées de «villes intermédiaires », sont confrontées à des défis majeurs en matière de transformation des territoires et des sociétés dans un contexte de changements climatiques et de de tensions sociales et sécuritaires. En phase de densification et d’urbanisation, elles doivent s’adapter en permanence pour répondre aux besoins des populations. Ce forum a pour but d’ i nformer et communiquer sur les enjeux des villes intermédiaires auprès des acteurs publics, privés et de la société civile ici et là-bas, de valoriser et mettre en lumière les potentialités des villes intermédiaires de la moyenne vallée du fleuve et de co-construire une communauté d’acteurs opérationnels et académiques autour des villes intermédiaires et de leurs enjeux afin de travailler dans une dynamique de recherche - action. Le forum s’organisera entre des temps de débats sous forme de de table ronde, des ateliers de présentation/immersion dans les villes et des présentations d’initiatives qui contribuent à construire la ville et la faire vivre au quotidien. Une soirée spéciale sera également organisée Le vernissage de l ’exposition photographique : Bakel , Kaédi et Kayes : des villes en mouvement sur le fleuve Sénégal (ouverte à tous et toutes, à l’espace Kawsara, quai Roume, île de Saint Louis, du 12 au 26 décembre 2023). Cette exposition a pour ambition de restituer et d’illustrer les dynamiques et mécanismes de la transition urbaine au Sahel tels qu’ils sont ressortis lors de la démarche de diagnostic participatif prospectif mise en œuvre dans le cadre du travail du Grdr. Previous Next

Yaoundé, Cameroon's political capital is one of the two most important cities in the country and is experiencing rapid population growth and spatial expansion. With a population estimated at more than 3.5 million inhabitants, the city has a metropolitan dynamic reinforced by its status as a political capital. This series resorts the energy of Yaoundé, as well as its spatial configuration between modern and precarious housing. Yaoundé-Cameroon Yaoundé, Cameroon's political capital is one of the two most important cities in the country and is experiencing rapid population growth and spatial expansion. With a population estimated at more than 3.5 million inhabitants, the city has a metropolitan dynamic reinforced by its status as a political capital. This series resorts the energy of Yaoundé, as well as its spatial configuration between modern and precarious housing.