Sustainable Cities

Our reports on the state of sustainable cities and communities in Africa look into initiatives to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, including efforts to improve urban planning, infrastructure development, and access to basic services.

Sustainable Cities

Photo illustration by Tomi Abe for SUSINSIGHT

The Global North Has Its ‘Smart Cities.’ Africa Is Building Better Ones.

African urban development isn’t playing catch-up. It’s forging a new path that blends technology with culture, ecology, and inclusivity.
Portrait of Victoria Agbakwuru Victoria Agbakwuru
10 min read
Photo illustration by Tomi Abe for SUSINSIGHT

Can Grassroots Action Prevent the Next Major Disease Outbreak?

Top-down responses keep failing. Can trust, local knowledge, and early action stop outbreaks before they overwhelm already fragile health systems?
Avatar photo Blossom Amena
7 min read
Photo illustration by Tomi Abe for SUSINSIGHT

Who Will Keep Paying the Price for Polluted Air?

Despite contributing the least to global emissions, vulnerable communities face worsening air pollution, rising deaths, and economic devastation—who will act?
Avatar photo Adetoro Adetayo
8 min read
Photo illustration by Tomi Abe for SUSINSIGHT

Power, Water, and the Trade-offs of a Lesotho-South Africa Megaproject

A water-rich nation fuels South Africa’s economy, but at what cost? Displaced communities and environmental damage reveal the hidden price.
Avatar photo Blossom Amena
5 min read
Photo illustration by Tomi Abe for SUSINSIGHT

Is Africa’s Digital Expansion a Double-Edged Sword?

While digital growth promises economic opportunities, its environmental costs and social gaps raise critical questions about long-term benefits.
Avatar photo Adetumilara Adetayo
6 min read
Colorful Nubian Home Exteriors. Photo by Tomi Abe.

The Enduring Wisdom of Nubian Homes

Passed down through generations, Nubian homes tell a story of survival, ingenuity, and a timeless connection to their roots.
Avatar photo Tomi Abe
7 min read
Electric Tuk-Tuks. Photo by Tomi Abe

E-Mobility for the Many, Not the Few

What strategies can Africa adopt to make e-mobility affordable and accessible while bridging the gap in urban transportation for underserved communities?
Avatar photo Adetoro Adetayo
8 min read
Policy Makers in Action

Africa’s Sustainable Development Hinges on Data: Here’s Why

Data stands as the cornerstone of Africa's path toward sustainable development, crucial for informed decision-making and effective policy implementation across all...
Avatar photo Tomi Abe
7 min read

The Timeless Design of Moroccan Homes

From the intricate zellij tiles to the cooling riads, Moroccan architecture embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and functionality that continues...
Avatar photo Tomi Abe
10 min read

The Guardians of Gaia

What happens when a small African village, guided by the wisdom of its elders and fueled by unity against exploitation, harnesses...
The Publishers
3 min read

The Hidden Cost of Egypt’s Economic Growth

Despite Egypt's impressive economic growth, the stark reality of persistent poverty and environmental challenges reveals the hidden costs of a rapidly...
Avatar photo Adetola Adetayo
6 min read
Children studying under a solar lantern in a rural community

Quadloop’s Circular Approach to Sustainable Innovation

Quadloop Africa exemplifies the potential of repurposing electronic waste for sustainable innovation, crafting solar products from discarded electronics to challenge conventional...
Avatar photo Favour Olumuyiwa
6 min read
Power Plant Illustration

Aba’s Geometric Power Plant and Future Prospects

The Geometric Power Plant promises to reshape Aba’s energy landscape, delivering reliable electricity and driving significant industrial and economic growth.
Avatar photo Tomi Abe
6 min read

Ecobarter’s Digital Revolution in Waste Management

Ecobarter pioneers a transformative approach to waste management, seamlessly integrating technology and community engagement to inspire a nationwide movement toward environmental...
Avatar photo Favour Olumuyiwa
5 min read

Drops of Life: Majik Water’s Solution for Arid Communities

Majik Water spearheads a groundbreaking approach to combating water scarcity in Kenya’s arid regions, utilizing innovative air-to-water technology to revolutionize clean...
Avatar photo Adetoro Adetayo
9 min read