Mass Urban Migration Drives Need for New Cities in Africa
Africa is experiencing a significant urban migration, with approximately 60,000 individuals relocating to cities daily.
This influx translates into an annual addition of around 23 million urban residents, as reported by the OECD. The continent is currently home to over 230 special economic zones and is witnessing the development of 10 to 20 large master-planned cities. These emerging urban landscapes require extensive infrastructure and funding.
Challenges in Urban Development
The Charter Cities Institute, which organizes the New Cities Summit, engages with both city builders and financial backers. A recurring theme among these stakeholders is the existence of a masterplan and available financing; however, progress remains stalled due to unfinished preliminary work.
This vital groundwork, termed “Phase Zero,” involves validating project feasibility, estimating costs, assessing impact on the surrounding environment and community, and establishing a robust legal framework. Often overlooked by governments and developers, this phase leaves investors with little concrete information to guide their decisions.
Waterfall City: A Model for Urban Success
This year’s Summit will take place in Waterfall City, located strategically along the N1 highway between Johannesburg and Pretoria. Spanning approximately 2,200 hectares, Waterfall City exemplifies successful urban planning and development. The Waterfall City Management Company reports that over 8,500 homes are currently under construction, with plans for an additional 28,000 units. A documentary titled Building Opportunity, which chronicles the development of this urban project, will have its premiere at the Summit.
Investing in Urban Futures
The Cities Investment Forum, also part of the Summit, aims to conduct the necessary Phase Zero work prior to investment pitches. Managed by the Charter Cities Institute alongside infrastructure advisory firm Mineral Springs, this initiative evaluates projects, identifies gaps, and connects teams with potential investors. Notable projects such as Tatu City in Kenya and Kigali Innovation City in Rwanda have benefited, resulting in over $10.4 billion in infrastructure capital mobilized.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Mark Lutter, founder and executive director of the Charter Cities Institute, emphasizes the need for adequate capital, infrastructure, and governance to accommodate Africa’s urban growth. “This Summit convenes those who control these essential elements in a city that is actively being constructed,” he stated.
Key speakers include industry leaders such as Daniel Yu from Africa Jobs Fund and David Pilling of the Financial Times. Representation from the World Bank and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry confirms the significance of this event.
Upcoming Summit Details
This marks the third edition of the Summit, following successful gatherings in Kigali and Nairobi. Scheduled for December 7–8, 2026, in Waterfall City, this event will showcase critical developments in urban planning. Those interested in building, supplying, or financing urban projects, or simply in understanding Africa’s future cities, are encouraged to attend. Register here: newcitiessummit.org/tickets
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