The Government of Kenya, in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), has confirmed its readiness to host the Second Africa Urban Forum (AUF2) set for April 8–10, 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.
The high-level continental gathering will take place under the theme “Adequate Housing for All: Advancing Socio-economic and Environmental Transformation towards the Realization of Agenda 2063.”
AUF2 will bring together Heads of State and Government, ministers, city mayors, governors, private sector leaders, development partners, urban planners, civil society organisations, academia, and youth representatives to deliberate on Africa’s urban transformation.
Africa is currently experiencing the fastest urban growth in the world, with projections indicating that nearly two-thirds of the continent’s population will live in urban areas by 2050.
The rapid growth presents major opportunities for economic development while also creating urgent challenges related to housing, urban infrastructure, climate resilience and inclusive city planning.
Alice Wahome, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, said the forum offers a timely opportunity for African leaders and stakeholders to develop practical solutions for the continent’s expanding cities.
“We are honoured to host Africa and the world in Nairobi for AUF2. As African cities expand rapidly, we must reimagine housing as a driver of economic opportunity, innovation and environmental sustainability. This Forum provides a unique platform to accelerate practical solutions and partnerships that will transform urban living for millions of Africans,” she said.
The forum will support the implementation of the African Union’s development blueprint, Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, which outlines Africa’s vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development over the coming decades.
According to the African Union Commission, AUF2 will play a critical role in strengthening continental collaboration on sustainable urbanisation while advancing global development frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda.
Dr. Mary Mbole-Kariuki, African Union Representative in Kenya, emphasized the importance of building resilient and climate-smart cities across the continent.
“The next frontier for Africa lies in building cities that are both green and resilient — cities capable of withstanding climate shocks while unlocking economic opportunities for their citizens. AUF2 will provide a continental platform to deepen policy coherence, mobilize partnerships and scale transformative investments in sustainable housing, infrastructure and urban services,” she said.
The forum will focus on key areas including affordable housing delivery, climate-resilient infrastructure, innovative financing mechanisms, smart city solutions, urban planning reforms and inclusive economic growth models.
Participants will also explore investment opportunities in housing and infrastructure, while showcasing African-led innovations aimed at accelerating sustainable urban development.
Hosting the forum further reinforces Nairobi’s role as a global hub for urban dialogue, supported by the presence of UN-Habitat and several international development institutions headquartered in the city.
The forum is expected to culminate in the adoption of the Nairobi Declaration, which will outline a continental roadmap for sustainable urban development and strengthen Africa’s collective voice in global urban policy discussions.
Kenya says preparations for AUF2 have been finalized in collaboration with the African Union Commission and development partners, with the country ready to welcome delegates, stakeholders and international media to Nairobi for the landmark event.
