President William Ruto has officially opened the Africa Urban Forum 2026 in Nairobi, calling for decisive action to tackle Africa’s growing urban challenges.
Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on April 8, Ruto urged leaders to move beyond policy discussions and focus on delivering tangible solutions.
“2026 is the year of transformation… the future is not built on slogans, it is built on bold, responsible decisions,” Ruto said.
Shift from Dialogue to Implementation
The three-day continental forum has brought together policymakers, investors, and urban planners to chart Africa’s urban future.
Ruto stressed that transformation must begin with practical interventions, particularly in major cities.
“We cannot transform Kenya unless we begin with the transformation of Nairobi County,” he stated.
He also pushed back against criticism surrounding urban renewal programmes, defending the use of public land for housing development.
“Others are asking why we are using government land to build houses. The same people don’t mind when that land is invaded and becomes informal settlements,” he added.
Housing Crisis Takes Centre Stage
A central theme of the forum is the urgent need for affordable housing across Africa, with leaders exploring ways to bridge the widening housing gap.
The discussions align with the continent’s long-term vision under Agenda 2063, which prioritises inclusive growth and sustainable cities.
Ruto emphasised that solving the housing crisis requires collective effort across sectors.
“No single leader, party or sector can transform Kenya on its own; it takes our collective effort,” he said.
Smart Cities and Climate Solutions
Delegates at the summit are also focusing on how technology can shape future cities.
Key discussions include:
- Adoption of smart technologies and digital infrastructure
- Expansion of fibre connectivity
- Building climate-resilient cities to withstand environmental pressures
Experts note that with Africa’s rapid urbanisation, innovation will be key to managing population growth and improving living standards.
Unlocking Financing for Urban Growth
Financing remains a major focus, with stakeholders exploring new ways to fund infrastructure and housing projects.
Proposals include leveraging private investment, climate financing, and public-private partnerships to create sustainable urban development models.
The forum aims to generate actionable investment pipelines that can be implemented across African cities.
Nairobi Declaration Expected
The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of the “Nairobi Declaration,” a framework designed to guide urban development across the continent.
The declaration will outline commitments on housing, infrastructure, and sustainable urbanisation strategies.
A Critical Moment for Africa’s Cities
With more than half of Africa’s urban population living in informal settlements, leaders say the time for action is now.
As discussions continue in Nairobi, the focus remains on whether commitments made at the forum will translate into real change.
