AFRICAN CITIES IN THE 2020S: WEAKNESSES AND STRENGTHS

Abstract

A series of case studies will illustrate trends in migration and urbanization in urban Africa. Weaknesses in the search for inclusivity – especially during and after COVID - refer particularly to the continuing dominant roles of urban (as well as national and global) elites in these cities and the associated high levels of urban poverty and inequality. Strengths refer particularly to the roles of the better qualified urban youth, to the spread of digital skills and means of communication, and to the presence of both global as well as national positive influences in these cities.