The Future of African Cities: Challenges and Priorities in Urban Development (Directions in Development)

The massive migration of people from rural into urban areas is the most spectacular demographic upheaval that Africa has experienced in recent decades. The growth of Africa's cities has outstripped local capacities of management, absorption, and financing, yet cities do not have to be a drain on the national economy. They can actually add new dynamism to the process of economic growth. This book surveys 25 years of experience in the urban development sector in francophone Africa and suggests an agenda for the future, focusing on fundamental questions such as: • What should be the priority areas of action under future urban projects? • Who should be partners? • Where should urban investments be made and how should they be financed?