Africa's Housing Crisis Could Unlock Massive Economic Growth, Leaders to Discuss Solutions
Nairobi, 13 March 2026
African heads of state will gather in Nairobi from 8-10 April to explore how housing development can drive continental economic transformation. With nearly two-thirds of Africa’s population expected to live in urban areas by 2050, the Second Africa Urban Forum will address chronic housing shortages affecting millions whilst positioning construction and infrastructure as key job creation sectors across the continent.
Forum to Reimagine Housing as Economic Engine
The Second Africa Urban Forum (AUF2), scheduled for 8-10 April 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, will bring together African heads of government, ministers, mayors, governors, investors and development partners [1]. The gathering, organised by the Kenyan government in partnership with the African Union Commission, operates under the theme ‘Adequate Housing for All: Advancing Socio-economic and Environmental Transformation towards the Realization of Agenda 2063’ [1][7]. Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, Alice Wahome, emphasised that the forum will provide a platform for African governments to rethink housing beyond shelter and instead view it as a catalyst for economic growth [1]. ‘We are honoured to host Africa and the world in Nairobi for AUF2. As African cities expand rapidly, we must reimagine housing as a driver of economic opportunity, innovation and environmental sustainability,’ Wahome stated [1].
Urbanisation Pressure Creates Economic Opportunity
Africa is currently experiencing the fastest urban population growth in the world [1]. By 2050, nearly two-thirds of the continent’s population is expected to live in urban areas, increasing pressure on housing, infrastructure and urban services [1][7]. However, officials suggest this rapid urbanisation also presents a significant economic opportunity if governments invest strategically in housing, infrastructure and sustainable urban planning [1]. Mary Mbole-Kariuki, representing the African Union in Kenya, highlighted that AUF2 will focus on aligning urban development with economic transformation [1]. ‘The next frontier for Africa lies in building cities that are both green and resilient — cities that can withstand climate shocks while unlocking economic opportunities for their citizens,’ she explained [1][7].
Addressing Current Urban Challenges
The forum’s timing coincides with pressing urban planning challenges facing African cities, as demonstrated by recent events in Nairobi [6]. Flash floods in March 2026 killed more than 40 people across Kenya, with many fatalities reported in Nairobi, after intense rainfall submerged roads, swept away vehicles, and displaced residents [6]. Urban planners and officials noted that the flooding reignited debate about how Kenya’s rapidly growing cities are being built and managed [6]. Experts pointed to unchecked development, blocked waterways, and pressure on ageing drainage infrastructure as key reasons why parts of Nairobi flood during heavy rains [6]. The problem stems from encroachment on natural waterways, with rapid urban expansion outpacing the city’s infrastructure capacity [6].
Focus on Innovation and Investment Solutions
Discussions during the forum will centre on affordable housing delivery, innovative financing models, climate-resilient infrastructure, smart city technologies and inclusive urban growth strategies [1][7]. Participants are expected to examine investment opportunities in housing and infrastructure while strengthening partnerships between governments, development institutions and the private sector [1]. The forum will highlight financing mechanisms, smart urban planning, climate adaptation strategies and inclusive development models [7]. According to the African Union, the forum will help accelerate implementation of Agenda 2063, the continent’s long-term strategy for inclusive growth and sustainable development [1]. The event is expected to conclude with the Nairobi Declaration, which will outline a continental roadmap aimed at scaling sustainable urban development and elevating Africa’s voice in global urban policy discussions [1].