Urban planning and resource management

Urban governance in Northern Africa faces a wide variety of challenges. The sub-region’s cities are chronically vulnerable to food and water insecurity as well as to global price fluctuations, especially for food and energy. Northern Africa’s countries are characterized by high levels of urbanization; large youth bulges; high incidence of poverty, inequality and unemployment; and (with the exception of Sudan) coastal settlement. Overcentralized and bureaucratized administrative systems reinforce the importance of political patronage as opposed to efficient governance, contributing to weak public service provision and management in urban areas. Selective urban policies, despite attracting foreign investment, have favoured established and politically connected businesses. The construction of gated enclaves and western-style malls for the affluent have led to displacement and fragmentation of some urban communities and their cultures, entrenching inequality in living standards and opportunities.

Related Subject(s): Human Settlements and Urban Issues