Building net-zero African cities: Decarbonization and structural transformation

This paper examines how African cities can reconcile rapid urbanization and development imperatives with urgent decarbonization goals through structural transformation. It begins by mapping key sources of urban carbon - energy poverty, inefficient buildings, poor planning, transport systems, waste management, and construction practices - and quantifies their contributions to emissions. Building on the concept of a 'latecomer advantage', the study argues that African cities can bypass legacy fossil-fuel systems by investing directly in decentralized renewables, net-zero energy buildings, green transport, and waste-to-energy technologies. It emphasizes how targeted green investment can simultaneously alleviate energy poverty, create skilled employment, and reduce carbon dioxide, while underscoring the critical roles of governance, finance, and policy coherence. Persistent barriers, constrained public and private finance, weak institutional capacity, skills gaps, policy fragmentation, and digital divides are analysed to highlight where interventions are most needed. The paper then proposes an integrated, cross-sectoral framework that aligns urban planning, energy, waste, and construction under coherent policies, supported by inclusive stakeholder engagement and innovative financing instruments such as green bonds and public-private partnerships. It concludes with recommendations for strengthening multilevel governance, formalizing informal sectors, and fostering South-South cooperation to accelerate a just transition towards low-carbon, resilient, and inclusive African cities.