On the 11th, 12th & 14th of May, 2021, Connective Cities held a dialogue event to address the topics of integrating nature-based solutions in land use planning, land information systems and participatory & inclusive land use planning. The event attracted the participation of 38 participants from municipalities, local government associations, national governments, research institutions and civil society organizations. The countries represented include Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Kenya, Netherlands, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda and Zambia.

The statistics as highlighted by Oumar Sylla (UN-Habitat) reminded us that the population in the cities is on the rise and this irreversible urbanization trend we are now faced with the challenge of channeling its effects especially in the area of land governance. Mr. Hilmar von Lojewski (DST) then emphasizes that we need to reduce land uses for building purposes to the utmost necessary amount.

This called for understanding of the impact of the rapidly growing cities to the wellbeing of its residents and acquaintance to the different ways in which cities can integrate Nature-based Solutions in their planning & implementation of city plans including green roofs and walls, permeable pavements and green spaces just to mention a few. This was delivered by Heidi Tuhkanen (SEI) and Emmanuel Letebele (eThekwini) showcased how the cities can integrate climate change in spatial development.

While cities may have challenges in this area, there is effort to improve the situation as was evident in the good practices shared from both SSA and German cities on the three main topics. Aspects highlighted in the discussions included the integration of socio-economic and livelihood aspects in urban spaces, the need for frameworks to protect urban green spaces, using data to inform policy at national level and prioritizing public investment based on findings. Evident also are the modalities around public participation in the design and use of public spaces.

Four cities had an opportunity to consult their peers on challenges they experience in the areas of public participation, planning tools, cascading of city plans and development of socio-economic initiatives in urban spaces. Seven cities also received feedback on their draft project ideas.

Are cities resilient, are they making informed land management decisions, are they inclusive in their processes? Find out in the documentation coming soon on this website.

Impressions