AfDB, Swiss govt partner to build sustainable cities in Africa

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has recently launched the Urban and Municipal Development Fund with the goal of scaling up interventions in urban development to drive sustainable growth in cities across Africa. CNBC Africa's Esther Awoniyi had the opportunity to speak with Raymund Furrer, the Ambassador and Delegate for the Swiss Government for Trade Agreements, to discuss this groundbreaking initiative. Furrer emphasized the importance of the project, highlighting its innovative approach to fostering entrepreneurship in Africa. The collaboration between the AfDB and the Swiss government aims to support young people in starting their businesses, thereby creating jobs and driving innovation in the private sector. By combining the expertise of both entities, they are dedicated to pushing the boundaries in urban development and promoting sustainable practices. One of the key initiatives under discussion was the Urban and Municipal Development Fund, launched in April of this year. The Swiss government is among the initial partners and donors of the fund, with a focus on assisting African cities in building more sustainable urban environments. Given the rapid urbanization happening on the continent, Furrer underscored the importance of managing this growth effectively to ensure long-term sustainability. Urbanization presents a complex challenge, as it encompasses various issues such as infrastructure, governance, and planning. The collaborative project between the AfDB and the Swiss government aims to leverage global experiences and partnerships to implement efficient and effective urban development strategies. By identifying key areas of intervention and maximizing the impact of limited resources, the initiative seeks to create a blueprint for sustainable city planning in Africa. Despite the existing structural challenges in many African cities, Furrer remains optimistic about the opportunity to build more sustainable urban centers. He acknowledged the dynamic nature of cities and the constant pressure they face from population growth and migration. By taking a proactive approach to addressing current issues while anticipating future demands, the project aims to promote holistic urban development and alleviate strain on major metropolises. Looking ahead, Furrer outlined a collaborative learning process with the AfDB to conceptualize and focus on impactful interventions. While immediate impacts may not be visible within the next 12 to 24 months, the goal is to lay the groundwork for transformational change in urban environments across the continent. As the initiative progresses, the partners are open to expanding their contributions to the fund based on the results and impact achieved. In closing, Furrer expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts between the Swiss government and the AfDB, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating tangible results to stakeholders. With a commitment to proving the value of the investment in sustainable urban development, both parties are poised to deepen their engagement and expand the reach of the initiative. The optimism and dedication displayed by Furrer reflect a promising future for sustainable city planning in Africa, driven by a shared vision of progress and innovation.