The Kenyan government, in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), has announced it will host the Second Africa Urban Forum (AUF2) from April 8-10, 2026, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.
The landmark event, themed “Adequate Housing for All,” aims to forge a continent-wide strategy for sustainable urban development amid Africa’s unprecedented city expansion.
The forum convenes at a critical juncture. Africa is experiencing the fastest urban population growth globally, with projections showing nearly two-thirds of its citizens will reside in cities by 2050.
This rapid expansion presents a dual narrative: vast opportunities for economic transformation, alongside urgent challenges in providing adequate housing, climate-resilient infrastructure, and inclusive urban planning.
“We are honoured to host Africa and the world in Nairobi for AUF2,” said Alice Wahome, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Urban Development. “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.”
AUF2 serves as a key platform for advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063, a long-term blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. The discussions will also contribute to the global Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda.
The African Union Commission emphasized the forum’s strategic importance in shaping a unified urban future for the continent. “The next frontier for Africa lies in building cities that are both green and resilient,” noted Dr. Mary Mbole-Kariuki, AU Representative to Kenya. “AUF2 will provide a continental platform to deepen policy coherence, mobilize partnerships, and scale transformative investments in sustainable housing and urban services.”
Key focus areas will include affordable housing delivery, innovative financing mechanisms, smart city technologies, and climate adaptation strategies. A primary expected outcome is the “Nairobi Declaration,” which aims to establish a clear roadmap for sustainable urban development across Africa.
As home to UN-Habitat and a growing hub for multilateral organizations, Nairobi is solidifying its role as a global center for urban dialogue. Kenya stated that all preparations have been finalized in collaboration with the AUC and looks forward to welcoming delegates and development partners to the forum.
