The future of African cities : challenges and priorities for urban development

Abstract

The massive migration of people from rural into urban areas is the most spectacular gemographic upheaval that Africa has experienced in recent decades. While Africa was 80 percent rural at the time of independence, its rate of urbanization now stands at 50 percent, and the trend is expected to continue over the coming years. This book surveys 25 years of experience in the urban development sector in Francophone Africa and suggests an agenda for future, focusing on the fundamental questions: What should be the priority areas of action under future urban projects? Who should be the partners? Where should urban investments be made, and how should they be financed? This book proposes a priority agenda for the urban sector in the region. The basic principles underpinning the approach to the framework for intervention are: a) find simple solutions to complex problems; b) don't lose sight of the beneficiaries; and c) choose the right partners. Chapter 5 suggests some operational tools covering urban planning, land management, urban finance, taxation, and municipal contracts.

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