Kenya’s Urban Forum Ignites High-Level Push for Affordable Housing Solutions
NAIROBI, Kenya, Apr 10 — Kenya has positioned itself at the vanguard of the continent’s architectural evolution, convened leaders for the Second Africa Urban Forum to confront the deepening housing deficit, the gathering serves as a critical pivot point, shifting the conversation from abstract policy to tangible, on-the-ground solutions for the millions of urban dwellers currently caught in the crosshairs of rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure.
The three-day forum at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre brought together thousands of delegates from over 40 countries including policymakers, city leaders, investors and development partners, all seeking solutions to Africa’s rapidly growing cities.
President William Ruto officially opened the forum and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to building cities that drive growth, innovation and inclusion.
He pointed to the Affordable Housing Programme as a central pillar of this vision, noting that it not only addresses the housing deficit but also creates jobs and boosts economic activity.
The head of state emphasized that decent housing is a matter of human dignity,He highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade informal settlements while expanding infrastructure and essential services to improve urban living standards.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi in his remarks urged leaders to shift from dialogue to delivery stressing that while discussions remain important, they must now translate into visible and measurable outcomes.
The forum, convened by the African Union and co-hosted by UN-Habitat, is aligned with Agenda 2063. It focuses on expanding access to adequate housing while advancing socio-economic and environmental transformation across the continent.
As discussions progressed, stakeholders consistently pointed to the need for stronger urban governance, better planning and faster policy implementatio, there was a shared consensus that Africa must move quickly to match the pace of its urban growth.
Additionally, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi positioned Kenya at the forefront of climate financing, He announced a regional proposal to the Green Climate Fund aimed at unlocking investment for urban resilience across 20 African countries.
At the same time, he cited the Affordable Housing Act as a financing model expected to mobilise billions annually and attract private sector investment.
Leaders warned that Africa’s rapid urbanisation presents a double-edged sword while it offers vast economic opportunities, it also exposes millions to housing shortages, climate risks and inadequate services if not well managed.
Anaclaudia Rossbach echoed the concerns noted that Africa’s urban transition is unfolding at an unprecedented scale, urging governments to treat housing as a foundation for economic growth, resilience and social stability rather than a cost burden.
Further, participants called for a unified continental approach, urging African nations to negotiate as one bloc in order to secure predictable and large-scale investment for urban development.
The Africa Urban Forum, first held in Addis Ababa in 2024, takes place every two years ahead of the global World Urban Forum.
