Eastern Africa: inclusive urban growth

Published on June 9, 2026

Eastern Africa's long-rural population is urbanizing at a remarkable pace, creating major challenges for cities in terms of services, housing, and equity.

AFD supports this transition by financing climate-resilient infrastructure, reducing socioeconomic inequalities, and strengthening the capacity of local authorities. Through programs such as the Urban Fabric Initiative and the CICLIA fund, AFD promotes participatory approaches and nature-based solutions to make cities more inclusive and sustainable.

AFD also supports the development of intermediary cities, such as Tanga and Mwanza, to help rebalance growth dynamics across the region. By improving fiscal transfers and local governance, AFD helps strengthen the financial capacity of local governments.

This approach is built around four priorities: strengthening local capacities, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, reducing inequalities, and promoting multi-stakeholder governance.

English subtitles are available in the video settings.